lasalletest

UK Industrials M&A Shows Strong Momentum in 2026

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 09:10:51 GMT

UK Industrials, Strong Activity and Strategic Consolidation

The UK Industrials sector has remained a core area of M&A activity over the past 12 months, supported by structural demand, infrastructure investment and supply chain realignment . Sub-sectors including engineering services, manufacturing, building products, industrial distribution and specialist contracting have continued to attract strong interest from both strategic acquirers and private equity.

Buyers remain disciplined but active, with clear appetite for businesses with specialist capabilities , strong customer relationships and exposure to resilient end-markets such as infrastructure, energy, defence and construction. Fragmentation across many industrial sub-sectors continues to drive consolidation and buy-and-build strategies , particularly among private equity-backed platforms seeking scale and geographic expansion.

Valuation outcomes reflect this ongoing demand. High-quality industrial businesses are achieving high single-digit and above EBITDA multiples , with premiums for companies that can demonstrate consistent earnings, operational efficiency and clear opportunities for growth or margin enhancement.

Some deal highlights for 2025 were:

F M Conway Limited acquired by Vinci SA with a 7.98x EBITDA multiple
Severn Glocon UK Valves acquired by Valmet Oyj with a 11.92x EBITDA multiple
Trillium Flow Technologies acquired by Flowserve Group with a 12.3x EBITDA multiple
Senior's Aerostructures acquired by Sullivan Street Partners with a 13.1x EBITDA multiple
Davidson Holdings acquired by Genuit Group PLC with a 8.87x EBITDA multiple
Omnia Projects acquired by Egis Group with a 8.45x EBITDA multiple
Alunet Systems acquired by Eurocell Plc with a 7.84x EBITDA multiple

Over the past 12 months, deal activity has been supported by a combination of strategic acquisitions and private equity investment, with buyers targeting both platform opportunities and bolt-on acquisitions. While macroeconomic pressures and cost inflation have remained considerations, these have been offset by strong underlying demand in key end-markets.

As we move through 2026, many industrial business owners are reassessing their strategic priorities. For those considering a transaction in the next 12 to 24 months, early preparation remains critical to achieving a successful outcome. This often includes reviewing corporate and group structures, strengthening financial reporting, and ensuring the business is well-positioned to withstand detailed buyer due diligence.

We previously advised on the sale of Advantiv to Foresight and also Eurofilms to TrioWorld .

We are actively engaged with buyers and investors across the UK Industrials sector.

We support owners in preparing for sale, refining value drivers and navigating transactions to deliver optimal outcomes in the lower mid-market.

If you would like to discuss current buyer appetite, valuation benchmarks or preparation for a future transaction , we would be pleased to share our perspective.

Reach out today to arrange an informal, confidential call .

How Founder Motivations Shape Deal Outcomes

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:43:45 GMT

Founder motivations play a key role in M&A outcomes. Learn how personal goals influence valuation, structure, and buyer selection.

Every transaction begins with a set of motivations. While financial considerations are always important, they are rarely the only factor influencing a decision to sell.

Founder motivations shape not only the decision to sell, but also the structure, timing, and ultimate outcome of the transaction.

1. Financial Objectives

For some owners, the priority is to realise value after years of investment. This may involve a full exit or a partial sale that provides liquidity while retaining future upside.

Clarity around financial goals helps define negotiation strategy.

2. Desire for Continuity

Many founders care deeply about the future of their business. This can influence buyer selection, favouring those who will preserve culture and support existing teams.

3. Growth Ambitions

Some owners seek a partner who can take the business to the next level. This may involve additional capital, new markets, or strategic expertise.

In these cases, the right partner can be more important than maximising immediate value.

4. Personal Timing

Motivations are often influenced by life stage, succession considerations, or external pressures. Timing can shape both the urgency of a sale and the flexibility within negotiations.

5. Risk Appetite

Different owners have different attitudes to risk. Some prefer certainty and upfront value. Others are comfortable with deferred consideration or equity participation.

Understanding risk tolerance is essential in structuring a deal.

In summary

There is no single definition of a successful transaction. The right outcome depends on the owner’s individual motivations and priorities.

At La Salle, we take time to understand what drives each client. By aligning strategy, buyer selection, and deal structure with those motivations, we help deliver outcomes that reflect both financial and personal objectives.

If you have questions regarding any stage of the sales process, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

La Salle advise on sale of 100-year old leisure retailer

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:09:39 GMT

La Salle are pleased to announce the completion of another deal.

La Salle advised Yorkshire Caravans & Motorhomes in a deal which sees a local entrepreneur taking the reigns of this long-established leisure retailer after 100 years ownership within the same family.

Deal summary:

La Salle was instructed to assist with the sale and several potential trade buyers were sourced, vetted, and courted.

Ultimately, a local entrepreneur Jason Cooper, trading under Purosangue Ltd, who saw the value and potential in the company, was the favourable bidder and following extensive DD, including FCA approval, the deal completed just before Easter 2026.

Company background:

Founded in 1926 and based in Bawtry near Doncaster; Yorkshire Caravans (formerly Yorkshire Caravans of Bawtry) are the oldest and largest independent retailer of caravans, motorhomes, awnings and leisure accessories in the UK.

Operating from a 35-acre site (owned by the business), the company also offers extensive storage solutions for caravan & motorhome owners and boasts a £50m+ revenue for 2026.

Retaining the family ownership and values, third generation owner Jon Goulden has steered the development of the business since 1999.

Matt Dillon, Partner at La Salle commented:

"It was an absolute pleasure to work with Jon Goulden and the management team to transact on this deal.

It has been in the Goulden family for 100 years, so it was a special deal to advise on.

I must thank Mills & Reeve, especially Alexandra Keane and Chris Ross, for their tireless work on the deal and wish Jason Cooper and the team at Purosangue all the best for the future of the business."

Jason Cooper at Purosangue added:

“This is a business with strong foundations, a great team and a loyal customer base. Jonathan and his team have built something exceptional.

Our focus now is to build on that success, improve performance across the business and continue delivering a best-in-class customer experience. There is significant opportunity ahead, and we intend to realise it.”

Jonathan Goulden also commented:

“It’s been an incredible journey for our family. I’m proud of what we’ve built and the team behind it. After 100 years, this felt like the right moment to pass the business on. I’m confident Jason and his team will take it forward with energy and ambition.

I'd like to thank Matt and the team at La Salle for their professionalism and dedication throughout the process, and Mills & Reeve for their expert legal guidance.

It's been a privilege to serve our customers and the wider caravanning community, and I look forward to seeing the business go from strength to strength.”

Advisors:

Corporate Finance (to Yorkshire Caravans) – La Salle Corporate (Matt Dillon)

Legal – Mills & Reeve

What to Expect in Your First Meeting with an M&A Advisor

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:29:14 GMT

Considering a sale? Learn what to expect in your first meeting with an M&A advisor and how to get the most value from the conversation.

For many business owners, the first conversation with an M&A advisor can feel like a significant step. It often marks the transition from informal thinking to more structured planning.

Understanding what to expect can make that first meeting more productive and far less daunting.

An Initial Discussion, Not a Commitment

The first meeting is exploratory. It is an opportunity to understand your business, your objectives, and your timeline. It does not commit you to a sale or a formal process.

It should feel like a conversation rather than a presentation.

Understanding Your Objectives

A good advisor will focus on your motivations. This includes financial goals, personal priorities, and any timing considerations.

These factors shape the advice you receive and the strategy that follows.

High-Level Valuation Guidance

You can expect an initial discussion around valuation, based on your financial profile, sector dynamics, and comparable transactions.

This is typically directional rather than definitive, as a full assessment requires deeper analysis.

Overview of the Process

An advisor will outline how a typical sale process works, including preparation, marketing, negotiation, and completion. This helps set expectations around timing, complexity, and involvement.

Identifying Next Steps

If there is alignment, the conversation may move towards next steps. This could involve further analysis, preparation work, or simply staying in touch until the timing is right.

In summary

The first meeting with an advisor should provide clarity, not pressure. It is an opportunity to ask questions, explore options, and begin to understand what a sale might involve.

At La Salle, we approach these conversations in a straightforward and practical way. Our aim is to provide clear, honest guidance so that owners can make informed decisions at their own pace.

If you have questions regarding any stage of the sales process, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

Balancing Legacy and Value, Choosing the Right Buyer for Your Business

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 09:05:13 GMT

Selling a business is not only about price. Learn how to balance financial outcomes with legacy, culture, and long-term business continuity.

For many owners, selling a business is not simply a financial decision. It is the culmination of years of effort, relationships, and personal investment. As a result, the choice of buyer often involves more than just achieving the highest price.

Balancing legacy and value is one of the most important and nuanced aspects of a sale.

1. Defining What Matters Most

Before engaging with buyers, it is important to be clear on priorities. For some owners, maximising value is the primary objective. For others, protecting employees, maintaining culture, or ensuring continuity for customers carries equal weight.

Clarity at the outset helps guide decision making throughout the process.

2. Understanding Buyer Intentions

Different buyers bring different approaches. Some may seek integration and operational change. Others may prioritise continuity and growth with the existing team.

Understanding how a buyer intends to operate the business post-transaction is critical in assessing alignment.

3. Protecting People and Culture

Employees are often central to the success of a business. Sellers naturally want reassurance that their team will be supported after completion.

Discussing culture, leadership, and communication early in the process helps avoid surprises later.

4. Balancing Certainty and Aspiration

The highest offer is not always the most certain. Offers with complex structures or aggressive assumptions can introduce risk.

Balancing value with deliverability is key to achieving a successful outcome.

5. Long-Term Perspective

A transaction does not end at completion. The future success of the business, and how it reflects on the seller, often matters deeply.

Taking a long-term view helps ensure that decisions made during the process align with personal and professional values.

In summary

A successful sale is not defined by price alone. It reflects a balance between financial outcome, personal priorities, and the future of the business.

At La Salle, we work closely with clients to understand what matters most to them. By aligning buyer selection with both commercial and personal objectives, we help ensure outcomes that owners feel confident in, both at completion and beyond.

If you have questions regarding any stage of the sales process, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

UK Healthcare M&A Remains Strong in 2026

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 09:28:29 GMT

UK Healthcare, Resilient Demand and Sustained M&A Activity

The UK Healthcare sector has remained one of the most active areas for M&A over the past 12 months, supported by non-discretionary demand, demographic tailwinds and long-term funding visibility .

Sub-sectors including specialist care, mental health services, primary care, diagnostics and outsourced healthcare provision continue to attract strong interest from both strategic operators and private equity investors.

Buyers remain highly engaged, with consistent appetite for scalable, quality care platforms that can demonstrate strong occupancy, stable commissioning relationships and robust regulatory compliance.

Fragmented markets, particularly in specialist care and community-based services, continue to drive buy-and-build strategies , with acquirers seeking to expand regional footprints and service offerings.

Valuation levels have remained resilient. Well-positioned healthcare businesses are achieving high single-digit and above EBITDA multiples , with premiums for operators that can demonstrate strong margins, high-quality earnings and clear opportunities for expansion or operational improvement.

Over the last 12 months, transaction activity has remained steady across both platform and bolt-on deals, reflecting continued investor confidence in the sector’s defensive characteristics.

While regulatory scrutiny and staffing pressures remain key considerations, these factors have not materially dampened buyer interest in high-quality assets.

Some deal highlights for 2025 were:

Venture Life Group acquired by Biodue with a 10.82x EBITDA multiple
Cloudrx Holdings acquired by Vulcan Two Group with a 10.29x EBITDA multiple
PAM Healthcare acquired by Optima Health with a 12.2x EBITDA multiple
ADHD360 acquired by Keys Group with a 8.81x EBITDA multiple
Surgical Holdings acquired by Stile AB with a 7.7x EBITDA multiple

As we move through 2026, many healthcare business owners are reviewing their strategic options. For those considering a transaction in the next 12 to 24 months, early preparation remains critical to achieving optimal outcomes.

This includes reviewing corporate structures, ensuring regulatory and compliance frameworks are robust, and positioning the business clearly for buyer due diligence. Taking a proactive approach can significantly enhance both valuation and deal certainty.

At La Salle Corporate , we have remained active in the healthcare sector, advising on transactions across specialist care and broader healthcare services.

We previously advised on the sale of Vivre Care to Elsyium Healthcare and also Values In Care acquired by Swanton Care .

Our experience allows us to support owners in preparing for sale, navigating regulatory considerations and achieving successful outcomes in a competitive market.

If you would like to discuss current buyer appetite, valuation benchmarks or preparation for a future transaction , we would be pleased to share our perspective.

Reach out today to arrange an informal, confidential call .

Managing Emotions During the Sale Process

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:31:29 GMT

Selling a business is as emotional as it is financial. Learn how to manage pressure, scrutiny, and negotiation intensity during a transaction.

Selling a business is one of the most significant decisions an owner will make. It involves years of work, identity, and personal investment. While the process is commercial in nature, it is rarely purely rational.

Understanding the emotional dynamics of a sale helps owners navigate the journey more effectively.

1. Separation of Identity and Value

Owners often view the business as an extension of themselves. When buyers question margins, systems, or strategy, it can feel personal.

Recognising that scrutiny is part of the process, not a criticism of effort or integrity, is important.

2. Maintaining Perspective During Negotiation

Negotiations can intensify quickly. Adjustments to price or structure may feel like setbacks. However, these discussions are normal and often reflect risk allocation rather than fundamental disagreement.

Remaining focused on the overall outcome prevents short-term frustrations from dominating decision making.

3. Balancing Confidentiality and Communication

Keeping a process confidential while managing internal stakeholders can create stress. Planning communications carefully helps protect both morale and momentum.

4. Avoiding Decision Fatigue

Sale processes involve numerous decisions across financial, legal, and operational matters. Structured guidance reduces cognitive overload and supports consistent judgement.

5. Preparing for Completion

Completion can bring mixed emotions, including relief, pride, and uncertainty. Considering life after the transaction early makes the transition smoother.

In summary

A successful transaction requires both commercial clarity and emotional discipline. Recognising the human dimension of a sale helps owners stay balanced throughout the journey.

At La Salle, we act as a steady and objective partner during this process. By managing negotiations calmly, maintaining structure, and providing experienced perspective, we help clients make clear decisions at every stage while protecting long-term outcomes.

If you have questions regarding any stage of the sales process, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

Common Red Flags That Kill Deals During Due Diligence

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:50:40 GMT

Learn the most common red flags uncovered in due diligence and how business owners can address them before going to market.

Due diligence is designed to uncover risk. When issues are manageable and well explained, buyers remain confident. When risks appear systemic or concealed, transactions can stall.

Understanding common red flags allows owners to address them proactively.

1. Customer Concentration

Heavy reliance on one or two key customers increases risk. Buyers question the sustainability of earnings and the stability of future cash flows.

Diversification efforts and long-term contracts help mitigate this concern.

2. Inconsistent Financial Reporting

If management accounts do not reconcile cleanly with statutory accounts, or if forecasting lacks credibility, trust weakens quickly.

Clear reporting processes and transparent explanations are essential.

3. Weak Management Depth

Overreliance on the founder creates concern about continuity. Buyers need confidence that leadership capability extends beyond one individual.

Strengthening management depth well in advance supports value.

4. Informal Contracts

Undocumented customer or supplier relationships can create legal and commercial uncertainty. Buyers prefer clarity over informality.

5. Regulatory or Compliance Gaps

Unresolved compliance matters or unclear governance frameworks introduce risk that buyers will price conservatively or refuse to accept.

In summary

Red flags rarely emerge overnight. They often reflect areas that have simply not been prioritised.

La Salle works with clients ahead of a sale to identify and address potential concerns before they surface in due diligence. By reducing uncertainty early, we help protect valuation and maintain buyer confidence throughout the process.

If you have questions regarding any stage of the sales process, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

La Salle advise on landmark IFW deal

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:20:57 GMT

La Salle are pleased to announce the completion of another deal.

La Salle advised Advantiv in a deal which represented a landmark investment from the Investment Fund for Wales (IFW).

As the IFW celebrates its second anniversary, the British Business Bank is marking the occasion with another significant milestone - a £3.5 million equity investment made by fund manager Foresight Group - into Advantiv Limited, an industrial services firm, located in Merthyr Tydfil and Pembroke Dock.

Deal summary:

After an unsuccessful sales process with a major UK broker, Andy and Alistair at Advantiv met with La Salle to explore their exit options. A shortlist of potential UK and international trade buyers was drawn up, and, at the same time, conversations surrounding PE investment took place. It became apparent that PE investment represented the best option for Andy & Alistair and early discussions with Foresight gained momentum. The deal concluded, which represented the largest single investment from the IFW to date.

Company background:

Advantiv is a UK based industrial services and procurement company that provides a broad portfolio of engineering products, technical site services, and procurement solutions to clients across the commercial, industrial and manufacturing sectors, positioning itself as a “one stop shop” for industrial supply and engineering support.

Andy Burgess, Director at Advantiv:

“This investment will support us in recruiting and developing high-calibre staff across sales, commercial and operational roles to build on our South Wales base. Strengthening our team will enable us to execute our growth strategy more effectively while maintaining high standards of service and delivery.

Our plan includes opening more locations to provide more local service support across the UK, which will enable us to expand our presence in existing markets and pursue new growth opportunities.

We offer an unlimited product and service portfolio and an ability to provide solutions to any industrial or commercial sector, private or public. Partnering with Foresight will accelerate our growth, increase employment and return some of the investment to the regions we operate in. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our team, our customers, and our vision for the future.”

Matt Dillon, Partner at La Salle added:

It was a pleasure to advise Andy and Alistair on the transaction. After understanding the business in greater detail and seeing the drive from the management team, it became evident that a Private Equity deal was more suitable. I look forward to watching the business flourish with Foresight's backing and thank all parties on the deal with their help.

Phillip Sampson, Principal, Private Equity at Foresight Group:

“We’re proud to support Advantiv as they accelerate their growth plans. This investment reflects the Investment Fund for Wales ability to back profitable, well established businesses with strong market position, where partial shareholder liquidity forms part of a planned succession. The funding will help strengthen the team, enhance systems and automation, and support expansion into new locations - positioning Advantiv to serve more customers with the same high standards of delivery. We look forward to supporting Andy, Alistair and the wider team through their next phase of growth.”

Bethan Bannister, Senior Investment Manager at the British Business Bank:

“This record £3.5 million investment by Foresight through the Investment Fund for Wales is a fantastic way to mark the fund’s second anniversary. It highlights how the IFW is backing ambitious Welsh businesses to grow, innovate and compete on a larger stage.

Over the past two years, the fund has gone from strength to strength – now reaching a total of more than £11m invested into 9 businesses right across Wales. We’re incredibly proud to see how the Investment Fund for Wales is helping to nurture home-grown talent, attract private investment and drive sustainable economic growth throughout the country.”

Advisors:

Corporate Finance (to Advantiv) – La Salle Corporate (Matt Dillon)

Legal – Hill Dickinson LLP

Financial/Tax Advisory (to Foresight) – Lewis Silkin

Why Deals Fall Through at the Last Minute, and How to Prevent It

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:10:43 GMT

Even advanced transactions can fail before completion. Learn the common causes of late-stage deal collapse and how to reduce execution risk.

Few things are more frustrating than a deal collapsing late in the process. Months of work, negotiation, and preparation can be undone quickly if risks are not managed carefully.

While not every setback can be avoided, many late-stage failures follow predictable patterns.

1. Unexpected Due Diligence Findings

If material issues emerge late in diligence, confidence can evaporate. Inconsistent financial reporting, undisclosed liabilities, or operational weaknesses often create tension at a critical moment.

Early preparation and full transparency significantly reduce this risk.

2. Financing Challenges

Buyers who rely on external funding can face unexpected delays or revised lending terms. Shifts in credit appetite or changes in lender perception can impact certainty.

Ensuring buyers demonstrate credible funding routes from the outset is essential.

3. Deal Fatigue

Long processes test patience on both sides. When momentum slows, frustrations grow. Small disagreements can escalate if communication weakens.

Maintaining structure, pace, and clarity helps preserve focus and goodwill.

4. Misalignment of Expectations

If commercial expectations are not aligned early, friction often surfaces during legal drafting. Disputes over working capital, warranties, or earnout mechanics frequently emerge late.

Clear documentation of agreed principles reduces misunderstanding.

5. Emotional Reactions

Selling a business is personal. Tensions can rise as scrutiny increases and negotiations intensify. Emotional responses at critical moments can derail otherwise viable transactions.

In summary

Most late-stage deal failures are not sudden. They build gradually through misalignment, uncertainty, or avoidable surprises.

At La Salle, we focus heavily on preparation, buyer qualification, and process discipline. Our experience allows us to anticipate friction points early and manage them calmly, protecting both value and completion certainty for our clients.

If you have questions regarding any stage of the sales process, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

Insight: Deal-ready isn't the same as sale-ready

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:28:56 GMT

How pre-sale restructuring increases business value and reduces deal risk

Produced in collaboration with accounting firm UHY Williamson Croft , this is the first in a series of deep-insight articles focusing on pre-sale restructuring, deal-breaking tax risks, and the role of accountancy throughout a transaction process.

Deal-ready isn't the same as sale-ready

When it comes to considering the sale of a business, many businesses feel they perform well operationally, but more often than not fail to maximise value due to the complexity of their business structure.

This is hugely off-putting to potential buyers, who don’t just acquire profits - they acquire risk.

A business may be performing well, but if its legal, tax or group structure is complex or opaque, buyers will either:

Reduce the price.
Introduce extensive warranties and indemnities, or
Walk away entirely.

Restructuring therefore is a driver of value – not just a compliance exercise.

What buyers are looking for

Alongside a buoyant bottom line, buyers are looking for:

Clean group structures.
Transparent ownership.
Isolated risk.

Without these, you’re risking the whole deal, incurring unnecessary expense, time and emotional investment.

What the stats show

A significant proportion of announced M & A deals do not complete without adjustment, delay, or even worse, failure.

According to a recent UK survey, nearly half of organisations have delayed M&A deals due to insufficient preparation and heightened scrutiny in due diligence, while almost half adjusted their financial modelling in response to uncertainty around structural readiness.

H1 2025 saw M&A volumes down by 19%, with a staggering 97% of UK organisations unprepared for major deals, despite half of those having prioritised M& A or strategic partnerships as part of their growth strategy.

A lack of resource and financial uncertainty were cited as the biggest barriers to success which lead to deal delays.

Common structural issues that reduce business value

Issue: Overly complex group structures (i.e. historic entities, dormant companies, circular ownership).

Impact: Increases due-diligence time, cost and negatively impacts buyer confidence.

Issue: Multiple or unclear share classes (i.e. preference shares, growth shares or alphabet shares).

Impact: Creates the impression of misalignment between economic and voting rights.

Issue: Non-core or high risk assets in the trading entity (i.e. property, IP, legacy contracts and historic claims.

Impact: The buyers may want to discount for unknown or unquantified risk.

Issue: Legacy tax and legal issues.

Impact: Faced with uncertainty, buyers often apply a uncertainty, buyers often apply a risk discount, lowering the offer price to reflect potential future costs.

Practical examples of value-enhancing restructuring

With higher interest rates and increased scrutiny from investors and lenders, buyers are spending more time and money on due diligence. As a result, they increasingly favour businesses that are:

Easy to understand.
Easy to separate.
Easy to integrate.

A clean structure reduces uncertainty - and uncertainty is routinely priced into deal multiples.

Here’s some steps to take with estimated timelines:

Steps to take: Group Simplification

How and why?

Remove dormant or redundant entities to clarify exactly what the buyer is acquiring and to reduce perceived risk.

Timeline: 12-24 months before sale.

Buyers like to see a track record of trading within the simplified group. Doing this too close to sale can raise suspicion that issues are being “hidden” or artificially simplified.

Steps to take: Hive-down or hive-off of trading activities

How and why?

Separate the core trade from legacy assets or liabilities to create a clean sale vehicle.

Timeline: 8–36 months before sale.
Hive-downs often involve legal, tax, and regulatory approvals. Completing them early gives time for:

Demonstrating clean trading history in the new entity
Avoiding last-minute complications during due diligence

Steps to take: Share capital reorganisation

How and why?

Align share classes and simplify ownership to minimise disputes and delays during completion.

Timeline: 12–18 months before sale.

Early reorganisation:

Reduces shareholder disputes
Allows any minority buyouts or share adjustments to settle before sale
Gives time to demonstrate smooth governance to buyers

Steps to take: Asset separation

How and why?

Move property, IP or investments into separate entities to protect value and improve tax efficiency.

Timeline: 12–24 months before sale

Ensures clarity over what the buyer is purchasing
Allows historic financials of the core trading entity to be clean
Provides tax planning opportunities without rushed transactions

Steps to take: Balance sheet clean-up

How and why?

Resolve intercompany balances, dividends and historic issues before sale to strengthen negotiating position.

Timeline: 6-12 months before sale.

A final clean-up can be done closer to sale since it’s mostly accounting and internal adjustment work
Buyers like to see a tidy balance sheet at signing, minimising post-sale disputes

Clearly, time is of the essence.

Other actions business owners can take to become an appealing purchase

The more “future-proof” and transparent a business appears to a buyer, the less risk they perceive, and the higher the valuation. Structural changes alone are important, but operational, legal, commercial, and financial readiness often move the needle on multiples as much as balance sheet clean-up.

Consider:

Operational and governance actions (strong management team, succession planning, formalised, strong processes and policies, IT and data readiness i.e. a legacy IT systems are often a red flag due to costly upgrades or migration)

Commercial/customer actions (a diverse customer base, avoid the 80/20 rule, secure long-term contracts, IP protection)

Financial/reporting actions (clear up historic debt, standardise accounting and reporting, tax planning and efficiency through capital allowances, VAT structures)

Legal and compliance actions (ensure contracts are assignable on sale, resolve historic litigation, compliance with GDPR)
Strategic/market positioning actions (prepare management packs, teaser documents, identify potential deal breakers and buyer objections, public facing brand is in order)

If you have questions regarding any stage of the deal process, from company restructuring, through to financial due diligence, reach out today for an initial confidential call to discuss your options.

This article provides general information and shouldn't be relied upon as specific tax advice for your circumstances.

Tax rules change regularly, and individual situations vary. Always consult qualified advisers about your specific transaction.

This article contains links to third-party sources.

We do not control these websites and are not responsible for their content.

Sources:

https://www.diligent.com/company/newsroom/Survey-Reveals-Widespread-Challenges-in-Transaction-Readiness

https://www.financierworldwide.com/fw-news/2025/10/14/uk-organisations-unprepared-for-major-mampa-reveals-new-report

The Importance of Competitive Tension in Driving Deal Value

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 10:30:35 GMT

Competitive tension is one of the strongest drivers of value in a sale process. Learn how structured competition improves outcomes for sellers.

One of the most powerful drivers of value in any transaction is competitive tension. When multiple buyers are engaged in a structured process, outcomes improve not only in price, but also in terms of certainty, structure, and speed.

Yet many owners underestimate its importance.

1. Price Discovery

Competition allows the market to determine value. When buyers know they are not alone, they engage more seriously and move more decisively.

2. Stronger Deal Terms

Competitive processes improve more than headline price. They also improve deal structure, reduce conditionality, and strengthen contractual protections for sellers.

3. Improved Certainty

Multiple interested parties reduce execution risk. If one buyer withdraws, the process remains live. This protects momentum and negotiation strength.

4. Faster Timelines

Competition creates urgency. Buyers act more decisively when they know opportunities are contested.

5. Better Buyer Behaviour

Professional conduct improves in competitive environments. Buyers are more disciplined, prepared, and transparent.

In summary

Competitive tension strengthens outcomes across every dimension of a transaction. It improves value, certainty, and deal quality.

At La Salle, we design sale processes that create structured competition while maintaining control, confidentiality, and credibility. Our approach ensures that clients engage with the market from a position of strength.

If you have questions regarding any stage of the sales process, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

Trade Buyers vs Private Equity: What’s Changed in the Mid-Market

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 10:22:27 GMT

Understand how trade buyers and private equity differ in today’s mid-market and what that means for business owners considering a sale.

For many years, trade buyers and private equity firms operated in clearly defined ways. In today’s mid-market, those lines have blurred. Both buyer types are active, sophisticated, and increasingly competitive.

Understanding how they differ, and how those differences affect a sale process, helps owners make informed decisions.

1. Investment Drivers

Trade buyers are typically focused on strategic value. This includes market expansion, capability acquisition, and operational synergies.

Private equity firms focus on financial returns, growth potential, and value creation. Their interest is driven by scalability, leadership strength, and exit potential.

2. Speed and Process

Trade buyers can sometimes move quickly when strategic alignment is strong. However, internal approvals and governance can slow execution.

Private equity processes are often highly structured, with clear investment committees, formal diligence processes, and disciplined execution frameworks.

3. Deal Structures

Private equity transactions frequently involve structured consideration, including equity rollovers and earnouts. Trade buyers are more likely to pursue full acquisitions, although structure is now common in both.

4. Post-Transaction Involvement

Trade buyers often integrate businesses into existing operations. Private equity owners typically retain management teams and focus on growth and transformation before a future exit.

5. Competitive Dynamics

During 2025, both buyer groups remained active in the mid-market. Competition between them has supported deal flow and provided sellers with a broader range of options.

In summary

Both trade buyers and private equity can offer compelling outcomes. The right choice depends on the owner’s objectives, the business model, and the long-term vision for the company.

At La Salle, we help clients assess buyer types objectively and structure processes that create choice, competition, and clarity. This ensures owners can make informed decisions rather than being forced into a single path.

If you have questions regarding any stage of the sales process, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

What a “Good Buyer” Looks Like, and What to Avoid

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:02:38 GMT

Not all buyers are equal. Learn how to identify the right buyer for your business and the warning signs to watch for in a sale process.

When selling a business, it is easy to focus on price alone. However, the right buyer is not always the highest bidder.

A good buyer is one who can complete the transaction, support the future of the business, and deliver a successful outcome for all parties.

Understanding what to look for, and what to avoid, can protect both value and legacy.

1. Financial Credibility

A good buyer has access to funding and a clear route to completion. This may come through internal resources, banking relationships, or committed investors. Serious buyers demonstrate financial credibility early and transparently.

Buyers who delay proof of funds or avoid clarity around financing introduce unnecessary risk.

2. Strategic Fit

Strong buyers have a clear rationale for the acquisition. This may involve expansion, consolidation, capability building, or market entry. When a buyer understands why your business fits their strategy, execution becomes more straightforward.

Weak strategic fit often leads to slow processes and changing terms.

3. Decision-Making Authority

A good buyer has clear decision makers involved in the process. Delays caused by unclear governance structures or internal politics often signal future problems.

Direct access to decision makers improves pace, clarity, and certainty.

4. Cultural Alignment

Cultural fit matters more than many sellers expect. Businesses integrate more successfully when values, working styles, and leadership approaches align. This is particularly important for staff retention and continuity.

5. Professional Conduct

Good buyers respect the process. They communicate clearly, meet commitments, and act consistently. Poor communication, shifting positions, or tactical pressure late in the process are warning signs.

In summary

The right buyer is defined by more than price. Certainty, alignment, and credibility all shape the success of a transaction.

At La Salle, we focus on identifying buyers who not only value the business, but are also capable of completing the transaction and supporting its future. Our role is to protect our clients from unnecessary risk while maximising opportunity.

If you have questions regarding any stage of the sales process, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

Why a Smaller Advisory Team Can Give You an Edge

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 09:49:57 GMT

Larger does not always mean better. Learn why a smaller, focused M&A advisory team can deliver better outcomes for business owners.

When choosing an M&A advisor, many owners assume that a larger firm automatically means better results. In practice, the quality of advice, access to senior professionals, and alignment of incentives often matter far more than scale.

For many mid-market transactions, a smaller advisory team can offer distinct advantages.

1. Direct Senior Involvement

In smaller teams, senior advisors remain closely involved throughout the process. This continuity ensures that decisions are informed, advice is consistent, and momentum is maintained.

2. Fewer Clients, Greater Focus

Boutique advisors typically work with a limited number of clients at any one time. This allows for deeper understanding of each business and greater responsiveness when issues arise.

3. Clear Accountability

With a smaller team, responsibility is clear. Owners know who they are dealing with and who is accountable for progress, strategy, and execution.

4. Flexibility and Judgement

Mid-market deals often require judgement rather than rigid process. Smaller teams are able to adapt quickly, tailor strategies, and focus on what genuinely matters for the client.

5. Stronger Alignment with Owners

A close working relationship builds trust. Advisors who understand the personal motivations behind a sale are better placed to guide owners through difficult decisions.

In summary

The right advisor is not defined by size, but by focus, experience, and commitment. For many owners, a smaller advisory team offers clarity, access, and a more personal approach.

At La Salle, we deliberately work with a small number of clients at any one time. This allows us to remain hands-on, responsive, and fully aligned with our clients’ objectives throughout the transaction.

If you have questions regarding exit strategies, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

12–18 Months Before a Sale: What to Focus on to Boost Value

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 11:13:36 GMT

Planning ahead can significantly improve sale outcomes. Learn where owners should focus 12 to 18 months before selling their business.

Many of the factors that drive valuation cannot be fixed overnight. The strongest sale outcomes are often achieved by owners who start preparing well before they formally engage with buyers.

Focusing on the right areas 12 to 18 months ahead of a sale can materially improve value and reduce execution risk.

1. Strengthen the Management Team

Reducing reliance on the owner is one of the most effective ways to increase value. Empowering management, formalising roles, and developing decision-making depth all make the business more transferable.

2. Improve Quality of Earnings

Buyers value predictability. Improving margin consistency, reducing customer concentration, and addressing one-off items all strengthen the earnings profile.

Clear reporting and realistic forecasting support credibility.

3. Sharpen the Growth Story

A clear and credible growth narrative matters. This does not require aggressive projections. Instead, it requires logic, evidence, and a clear explanation of where future growth will come from.

4. Address Operational Weaknesses

Outdated systems, informal processes, or capacity constraints can limit valuation. Incremental improvements over time are far easier than rushed fixes during a live process.

5. Understand Market Timing

While timing the market perfectly is not possible, awareness of sector trends and buyer appetite helps owners plan strategically rather than reactively.

In summary

Preparation is one of the few variables within a seller’s control. Starting early allows owners to shape the narrative, reduce risk, and improve outcomes.

La Salle works with clients long before a formal sale process begins. By focusing on value drivers early, we help owners approach the market from a position of strength and confidence

If you have questions about due diligence, or any stage of a deal, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

How to Prepare Your Business for Buyer Due Diligence

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 10:12:17 GMT

Buyer due diligence does not need to be daunting. Learn how early preparation can reduce risk, protect value, and keep a sale process on track.

Due diligence is often viewed as the most demanding part of a sale process. For buyers, it is a necessary step to validate what they are acquiring. For sellers, it can feel intrusive and time-consuming.

The reality is that due diligence is far more manageable when preparation starts early. Businesses that are well organised, transparent, and consistent tend to progress through this stage smoothly and with fewer value adjustments.

1. Get Financial Information in Order

Buyers will expect clear, accurate, and well-explained financial information. This includes historic accounts, management reports, forecasts, and working capital detail. Any unusual items should be clearly identified and explained upfront.

Consistency between what has been discussed during negotiations and what appears in the data room is critical. Discrepancies raise questions and slow the process.

2. Document Key Contracts and Relationships

Customer contracts, supplier agreements, leases, and employment arrangements will all be reviewed. Gaps, informal arrangements, or expired contracts introduce uncertainty.

Ensuring that key relationships are documented and up to date gives buyers confidence and reduces the risk of last-minute issues emerging.

3. Clarify Legal and Compliance Matters

Buyers will assess whether the business operates within regulatory and legal frameworks. Addressing outstanding disputes, compliance gaps, or structural issues before going to market avoids unnecessary complications later.

Early legal input can be particularly valuable in identifying areas that need attention.

4. Demonstrate Operational Robustness

Buyers look for businesses that operate reliably without constant intervention. Clear processes, documented systems, and capable management all support this narrative.

Operational clarity reduces perceived risk and supports valuation.

5. Prepare the Management Team

Management involvement is often required during due diligence. Preparing the team for what to expect helps maintain focus and avoids disruption to day-to-day operations.

In summary

Due diligence does not have to be an obstacle. When handled properly, it becomes a confirmation exercise rather than a source of friction.

At La Salle, we help clients prepare well in advance, anticipate buyer questions, and manage the process efficiently. Our role is to protect value, maintain momentum, and ensure that due diligence supports a successful outcome rather than undermining it.

If you have questions about due diligence, or any stage of a deal, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

Year-End M&A Snapshot 2025 | What’s Driving Deal Activity

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 12:14:55 GMT

As 2025 draws to a close, we explore the key forces shaping UK mid-market M&A and what business owners should expect heading into 2026.

As 2025 comes to an end, many business owners are asking the same question. What is really driving M&A activity right now, and what does that mean for the year ahead?

While headline deal volumes have fluctuated, the UK mid-market has remained active. Transactions have continued, but with greater selectivity, more preparation, and a sharper focus on quality. Understanding the forces behind this environment is key for owners considering a sale in 2026.

1. Stabilising Interest Rates and Improved Visibility

After a prolonged period of uncertainty, 2025 has brought greater clarity around interest rates. While borrowing costs remain higher than historic lows, the pace of change has slowed. This stability has helped buyers regain confidence in forecasting cash flows and structuring acquisitions.

For sellers, this has meant fewer speculative processes, but stronger conviction from serious buyers who are prepared to transact when the fundamentals stack up.

2. Pent-Up Demand from Buyers

Many trade buyers and private equity firms paused activity in earlier periods of volatility. In 2025, that pent-up demand has begun to re-emerge. Capital still needs to be deployed, and strategic acquisitions remain a key growth lever.

This has supported deal activity, particularly for businesses with resilient earnings, clear growth narratives, and strong management teams.

3. A Continued Focus on Quality

Buyers in 2025 have been disciplined. They are prioritising businesses with predictable revenues, diversified customer bases, and operational maturity. Companies that require heavy owner involvement or lack clear financial controls are finding processes more challenging.

This focus on quality is expected to continue into 2026. Well-prepared businesses will attract attention, while weaker assets may struggle to achieve competitive outcomes.

4. More Structured Deals

Deal structures have become increasingly important. Earnouts, deferred consideration, and equity rollovers have been used to bridge valuation gaps and manage risk. Rather than signalling weak demand, these structures reflect pragmatic deal-making in a more considered market.

Sellers who understand and prepare for structured outcomes are better placed to navigate negotiations successfully.

5. Sector-Specific Drivers

While activity has been broad-based, certain sectors have continued to attract strong interest. Deal values in Manufacturing & Real Estate were up 60% and 51% respectively between H1 2024 and H1 2025. Deal volume increased in some sectors too, most notably within Education, which saw a 10% rise in the number of deals for the same period.

Businesses providing essential services, recurring revenues, or exposure to long-term structural growth have remained particularly attractive.

At the same time, consolidation has continued in fragmented markets, creating opportunities for owners to sell into strategic buy-and-build platforms.

6. Owner Readiness

An often-overlooked driver of deal activity is the seller’s own position. In 2025, many owners have chosen to act after years of uncertainty. Succession planning challenges, personal timing, and a desire for liquidity have all played a role.

This trend is likely to continue into 2026, particularly among founder-led businesses that have reached a natural transition point.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we move into 2026, the outlook for mid-market M&A is cautiously positive. Buyers remain active, capital is available, and confidence is gradually improving. However, selectivity will remain high.

For owners considering a sale, preparation will be critical. Those who take time to address risks, strengthen management, and articulate a clear growth story will be best placed to benefit from improving conditions.

In summary

The M&A market at the end of 2025 is active, but measured. Deals are getting done where there is quality, clarity, and realistic expectations. The drivers shaping activity today are likely to remain in place into 2026, creating opportunities for well-prepared sellers.

At La Salle, we work closely with owners to interpret market conditions, position their businesses effectively, and choose the right moment to engage with buyers. Our experience in the mid-market allows us to guide clients through changing environments with calm, informed advice and a clear focus on achieving the best possible outcome.

Share-for-Share Exchanges: What the 2025 Budget Means for Sellers

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:06:53 GMT

How the UK’s new anti-avoidance rules change pre-sale restructuring and exit planning.

When business owners think about selling their company, restructuring often comes up early in the process. This might include simplifying a group, introducing a holding company, or reorganising share ownership ahead of a sale.

For many years, share-for-share exchanges have been a common and tax-efficient way to do this. In simple terms, they allow shareholders to swap shares as part of a restructure without triggering an immediate capital gains tax bill.

However, changes introduced in the Autumn Budget 2025 mean these transactions now carry more risk than before. For owners planning a sale, this is something that should not be overlooked.

What Has Changed?

The Budget introduced tougher anti-avoidance rules that give HMRC greater power to challenge share-for-share exchanges.

Previously, if a restructure had a genuine commercial purpose, such as preparing a business for sale or investment, it was usually possible to proceed without triggering tax. Under the new rules, HMRC can deny tax-neutral treatment if one of the main reasons for the restructure is seen as gaining a tax advantage, even if the transaction also makes commercial sense.

A recent article from business & tax accountancy firm UHY Williamson Croft explains:

“The new legislation lowers the threshold dramatically. HMRC may now intervene wherever one of the main purposes of the share exchange is to secure a tax advantage, even if the transaction is also commercially justified.”

This is a significant shift. Transactions that would once have been considered routine may now face closer scrutiny.

Why This Matters for Business Owners Planning a Sale

1. The rules apply now

The changes apply to restructures completed on or after 26 November 2025 . There is no meaningful grace period. If a share-for-share exchange is challenged, it could result in a capital gains tax charge at the point of restructuring, even though the shareholder receives no cash.

For owners focused on an eventual exit, that can come as an unwelcome surprise.

2. Advance clearance is more important than ever

It has always been possible to ask HMRC for advance clearance to confirm that a restructure will be tax-neutral. Under the new rules, this step is now close to essential.

As the same article notes:

“Advance clearance is no longer simply best practice; it is now an essential safeguard … requests must now explain the commercial rationale in detail and demonstrate clearly that securing a tax advantage is not a main driver.”

In practice, this means owners need to clearly explain why a restructure is happening, for example:

simplifying the business ahead of a sale,
preparing for external investment,
enabling succession planning, or
improving governance.

Vague or generic explanations are unlikely to be sufficient.

3. Smaller restructures are not exempt

Another important change is that there is no practical “small transaction” exemption. Even relatively modest restructures can fall within the new rules if HMRC believes a tax advantage is one of the main motivations.

This widens the scope of transactions that could be challenged.

What Should Sellers Be Thinking About Now?

For business owners considering a sale, a few practical points are worth keeping in mind:

Review any planned restructures early
If a restructure is part of your exit planning, it should be reviewed in light of the new rules.
Be clear on the commercial reasons
Decisions should be driven by business logic, and that logic should be documented.
Bring advisers in sooner
Coordination between corporate, tax and legal advisers is now more important to avoid unintended consequences.
Think about timing
The order and timing of restructuring steps can make a real difference to risk.

Conclusion

The 2025 Budget has made share-for-share exchanges more complex and less predictable than they have been in the past. While these restructures can still play a useful role in preparing a business for sale, the margin for error has narrowed.

For business owners, the key message is simple: pre-sale structuring needs earlier thought and greater care than before .

At La Salle , we work closely with management teams and their tax and legal advisers to ensure corporate structures support, rather than complicate, a future exit.

If you are contemplating a restructure or beginning to think about a sale, an early conversation can help identify risks, shape the right strategy and avoid issues later in the process. Learn more about Pre-Sale Planning here.

______

This article draws on and references analysis published by UHY Williamson Croft in their commentary on the UK Budget changes to share-for-share exchanges.

Understanding How Deal Structures Really work

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:14:06 GMT

Earnouts, deferred consideration, and equity rollovers are common in M&A. Learn what they mean and how to navigate them with confidence.

When owners imagine selling their business, they often picture a simple transaction. A buyer pays a price and the deal completes. In reality, many transactions involve structured consideration. These structures help manage risk, support growth, and bridge valuation gaps.

Here are the most common elements found in modern deal structures and why they matter.

1. Deferred Consideration

Part of the price is paid after completion. This helps buyers manage cash flow or align incentives. Deferred payments are usually fixed and time based. They are not dependent on performance.

2. Earnouts

Earnouts link part of the consideration to the future performance of the business. They can be helpful in situations where the buyer and seller initially disagree on value. However, earnouts require careful negotiation, clear definitions, and strong legal drafting to avoid misunderstandings.

3. Equity Rollovers

In some cases, a seller retains a minority share in the business. This is common in private equity transactions. A rollover allows the seller to benefit from future growth while reducing risk by taking some value off the table.

4. Completion Accounts or Locked Box Mechanisms

These are methods for agreeing the final price. Completion accounts adjust the price based on the balance sheet at completion. A locked box sets the price at an earlier date, providing certainty for both sides.

5. Management Incentive Plans

When a management team is key to the future of the business, buyers may introduce incentive schemes. These align interests and support long term value creation.

In summary

Deal structure is as important as the headline price. Understanding how each element works and how it affects risk, timing, and personal objectives is essential to a successful transaction.

La Salle provides clear, experienced guidance throughout this process. We help sellers understand their options, negotiate terms that align with their goals, and avoid the common pitfalls that can arise in structured deals. Our role is to ensure that you feel fully informed and supported at every step.

If you have questions about deal structuring and what could suit your needs best, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

Why Most Businesses Do Not Sell for the Price Owners Expect

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 10:15:19 GMT

Learn why business valuations often fall short of owner expectations and how proper preparation can improve outcomes in the sale process.

Many owners have a number in mind long before they decide to sell their business. Sometimes it is based on a peer’s sale, sometimes on industry rumours, and sometimes on personal financial goals. When expectations do not match the reality of the market, frustration can follow.

The truth is that valuation is not simply a multiple of earnings. It is a reflection of risk, quality, and future potential. Here are some of the reasons why businesses often sell for less than owners expect, along with practical ways to address them.

1. Earnings Quality Does Not Match the Headline Figures

Buyers look beyond EBITDA. They focus on the sustainability of earnings, customer concentration, margin consistency, and recurring revenue. If earnings are volatile or reliant on a few customers, buyers adjust their valuation accordingly.

2. Overdependence on the Owner

If the owner is central to decision making, client relationships, or technical delivery, this creates risk. Buyers price that risk in. Developing a strong management team and delegating responsibilities ahead of a sale can significantly improve valuation.

3. Lack of Clear Growth Narrative

Buyers pay for the future as much as the past. If a business cannot clearly articulate where growth will come from, or if the market is perceived as limited, valuations soften. A well supported growth plan helps buyers see potential rather than only current performance.

4. External Market Conditions

Valuations rise and fall with market sentiment, financing availability, and sector dynamics. Even strong businesses face downward pressure in difficult markets. Timing can make a considerable difference.

5. Unresolved Risks

Outstanding legal issues, weak financial controls, outdated systems, or poor documentation all create uncertainty. Buyers respond to uncertainty with reductions in price or increased conditionality.

In summary

Valuation is not a fixed number. It is the outcome of preparation, positioning, and market conditions. Most gaps between expectation and value can be reduced with early planning and professional guidance.

At La Salle, we help owners understand the drivers of value, address issues before going to market, and present the business in a way that supports the strongest possible outcome. Our guidance ensures that when you do engage with buyers, you do so with confidence and clarity.

If you have questions about this, or any stage of a deal, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

How to Know When You’re Genuinely Ready to Sell Your Business

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 09:30:50 GMT

Selling a business is both financial and emotional. Learn the key signs that show when you are truly ready to start planning an exit, and how La Salle supports you through the process.

Selling a business is not just a financial decision. For many founders, the company represents years of hard work, identity, and risk-taking. Knowing when you are really ready to sell is one of the hardest judgements to make.

Here are a few indicators that it might be time to start planning an exit.

1. You have achieved what you set out to do

Perhaps you have hit your original goals in revenue, scale, or impact. Some owners reach a stage where the next phase of growth would require a different skillset, more capital, or greater appetite for risk. Recognising that can be liberating, not defeatist.

2. The business can run without you

A key readiness sign is when the company’s success is not dependent on the founder’s day-to-day involvement. If your management team can make decisions, win clients, and operate independently, you have built something that can be transferred and therefore sold.

3. The market is favourable

Timing matters. Strong buyer appetite, attractive multiples, or consolidation in your sector can create windows of opportunity. While no one can perfectly time the market, awareness of the broader environment helps you act strategically rather than reactively.

4. You know what is next

Sellers who have thought about what they will do post-sale, whether that is another venture, retirement, or a new role, tend to transition more smoothly. Without a next chapter in mind, many founders struggle with the “what now” phase.

5. You are mentally and emotionally prepared

Selling can be intense and occasionally invasive. Buyers will scrutinise every detail of your business. Being emotionally ready for that process, and for the idea of someone else leading your company, is critical.

In summary

You do not need to have all the answers before exploring a sale, but you should have clarity on your motivations. A well-timed, well-prepared exit can reward both the owner and the business, allowing it to continue thriving under new ownership while you move on to your next chapter.

At La Salle, we help owners navigate this journey with confidence. Many sellers worry about the level of scrutiny involved in a sale, yet with the right preparation and support, the process becomes far more manageable. We work closely with clients to present their business in the strongest light, address issues before they become obstacles, and guide them through each stage with calm, experienced advice. Our goal is to give you clarity and reassurance from the first conversation through to completion.

If you have questions about this, or any stage of a deal, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

The Key Steps Between Heads of Terms and Completion

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 09:49:43 GMT

Understand what happens between signing Heads of Terms and completing a deal. Learn how due diligence, legal work, and preparation shape a successful sale.

Signing Heads of Terms (HoTs) often feels like the finish line. In reality, it is the halfway mark. Between HoTs and completion lies a crucial period where the deal is tested, negotiated, and finalised. Understanding what happens in this phase can make it less daunting and help keep the process on track.

1. Due Diligence

Once HoTs are signed, the buyer conducts detailed due diligence across financial & tax, legal, commercial, and sometimes technical areas. It is their chance to verify that everything presented during negotiations holds up under scrutiny.
The best preparation is transparency. Sellers who provide organised, accurate information through a well-managed data room make the process faster and easier for everyone.

2. Legal Documentation

The legal phase translates commercial terms into binding contracts. Key documents typically include:

Share Purchase Agreement (SPA): defines what is being sold, at what price, and under what conditions.
Disclosure Letter: where the seller discloses known issues to ensure no warranty claim can be brought.
Service agreements: if the seller stays on for a period after the sale.
Investment Agreement / Articles: this is documentation used if selling to Private Equity, it confirms the rollover element of the deal.

It is vital that your advisor and lawyer work closely to ensure the legal drafting reflects your commercial intent. We regularly introduce lawyers that we trust and have worked with numerous times.

3. Final Adjustments

It is common for small adjustments to be made before completion, such as working capital true-ups or updates to warranties. This is flushed out following the DD process. Experienced advisors help keep these negotiations focused and ensure value isn’t lost.

4. Completion

Once all conditions are satisfied, documents are signed, funds are transferred, and ownership changes hands. While completion day can be anticlimactic, it represents months or even years of hard work.

In summary

The period after Heads of Terms is where deals are either solidified or derailed. Staying responsive, transparent, and well-advised during this stage dramatically increases the likelihood of a successful close.

At La Salle, we have many years of experience guiding clients through this stage.

The period between HoTs and completion can be intense, and emotions often run high on both sides. We act as a steady hand throughout, bringing calm, clarity, and objectivity. Our team is always available when clients need us, and we manage the process with the kind of steady nerves that only come from working on transactions day in, day out.

If you have questions about this, or any stage of a deal, reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

What Buyers Really Look for Beyond the Numbers

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 16:24:09 GMT

Discover what really drives buyer confidence in M&A. Learn why strong management, growth potential, and cultural fit matter as much as the numbers

When an owner begins thinking about selling their business, the first question is often, “What multiple will I get?”

While valuation matters, experienced buyers rarely make decisions based on the numbers alone.

Behind every transaction, there is a story, and buyers are looking for more than financial performance.

They are looking for confidence in the business’s future.

1. Quality of Earnings

Beyond topline revenue and EBITDA, buyers want to understand how those figures are achieved. Are sales recurring or one-off? Are margins sustainable? A well-documented financial track record supported by clear explanations builds trust. Surprises, on the other hand, quickly erode confidence.

2. Reliance on the Owner

A common issue in owner-managed businesses is dependency on the founder. Buyers worry about what happens when the person who knows every client, supplier, and process steps back. Building a strong management team and delegating key relationships ahead of a sale signals long-term stability.

3. Growth Potential

Buyers invest in what a business can become, not just what it has been. A clear growth plan, whether through new markets, product lines, or operational efficiency, makes a business more valuable. Even modest growth backed by realistic evidence can strengthen negotiating position.

4. Operational Maturity

Well-run businesses have systems that do not rely on heroics. Documented processes, reliable data, and consistent delivery all make due diligence smoother. Operational maturity reassures a buyer that they can take over without chaos.

5. Cultural Fit

In trade sales especially, culture matters. Buyers want to know your people will stay, integrate, and continue delivering after completion. Honesty about what makes your culture unique, and finding a buyer who respects that, can make or break a deal.

In summary

Buyers are not just acquiring profit. They are acquiring predictability, people, and potential. By addressing these non-financial factors early, sellers can improve value and reduce risk, both in the deal and in the transition that follows.

At La Salle, our main focus is connecting the right buyer for our clients. This means we speak to a lot of buyers and investors. We hear first-hand exactly what they are seeking: the structure of the company, strong second-tier management, specific areas marked for growth, etc.

If you are considering an exit or sale and would like the inside scoop on what outside parties are looking for - reach out in confidence and we'll be happy to discuss your options.

La Salle advise on minority investment in Education Provider from Founders Private Capital

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 13:38:31 GMT

La Salle are delighted to announce the completion of another deal ��

'Educational Resources & Training provider Creative Hut For Education, enters buy & build strategy via minority stake acquisition.'

Founders Private Capital (FPC), which launched earlier this year, has backed Creative Hut, which has worked with Amazon and LEGO. The multimillion-pound deal is the private equity firm's first investment.

Creative Hut company Background:

Established in 2017 and based in Warrington, Cheshire; Creative Hut For Education Ltd are an established, market-leading provider of a range of STEAM-based learning products, resources and training.

The company hold valuable reseller partnerships with Ed-Tech brands and run STEAM-based CPD training days and workshops for educators and pupils alike.

They also have collaborated with education institutions and Premier League football clubs, notably St Malachy’s College, Everton FC, and Newcastle United FC, to create state-of-the-art ‘Learning Spaces’ to help young people prepare for the future.

Deal Summary:

The Shareholders at Creative Hut instructed La Salle to help identify investors and assist with a share sale of the company.

Several potential acquisitors were sourced and Founders Private Capital emerged as the leading candidate. Their plan was to acquire a minority stake in Creative Hut and develop a buy & build strategy.

La Salle have also been retained to assist on the buy-side, sourcing new opportunities with a view to introducing new product and service offerings and generate new revenue channels to develop the group.

La Salle Corporate Partner Matt Dillon stated:

"We ran a very focussed sales process designed to introduce a small selection of parties that we felt would meet the company’s requirements from both a cultural and funding perspective.

"FPC met the requirements, and we now look forward to helping both the company and FPC seek further acquisition opportunities in the sector."

Creative Hut Founder Gareth Boldsworth commented on the deal:

"We are seeing significant demand from firms for our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and STEM outreach programmes, designed to prepare young people for tomorrow’s careers alongside delivering purpose-driven community impact.

FPC quickly identified the core values of Creative Hut in our discussions and aligned with our vision to provide support and infrastructure to accelerate the number of students and teachers we impact worldwide on an annual basis. We look forward to working with Ravi Sharma and the team over the coming years."

Gareth added comments on La Salle:

"The support we received from La Salle was exceptional.

Matt played a pivotal role in keeping us on track and providing unwavering support throughout every step of the journey.

His dedication, expertise, and meticulous attention to detail ensured a smooth and successful process.

They gave us lots of different options and were patient, knowledgeable and easy to work with during the decision-making process.

Thanks to Matt and the entire La Salle team, we felt confident and well-guided at every turn.

We couldn’t have asked for a better partner in this significant milestone for our company and I would recommend them to anyone who is about to embark on a similar journey.

A true service-oriented organisation."

Ravi Sharma of Founders Private Capital added:

"We are really excited to work with Gareth and the Creative Hut team going forward. The team have developed a STEM education-led CSR service offerings which have unique appeal to large enterprise businesses looking to meet their CSR requirements.

"We have seen some really great traction over the last 12 months and look forward to supporting management in driving growth both in the UK and internationally."

Advisors:

Corporate Finance (to Creative Hut) – La Salle Corporate (Matt Dillon)
Legal – Hill Dickinson LLP
Financial/Tax Advisory – Williamson & Croft

UK M&A Market Activity Year End 2024

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:09:35 GMT

The 2024 M&A Review, compiled by Experian MarketIQ, was released at the end of February and detailed UK merger & acquisition activity during 2024.

As in previous years, we've extracted the data and fed it into our long-term review. This helps us to get a broader picture of M&A activity, to identify growing or contracting sectors, and to see the impact of geopolitical and global events on M&A, here in the UK.

We can now review and compare 6 years of deal volumes and values. Originally, we planned to monitor the figures each year to see if a return to pre-Covid levels was evident. However, we've also had to factor in the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza and the impact that has had on global economies and subsequently, UK M&A.

First up, we take a look at the volume of deals for 2024 and as far back as 2019...

UK DEALS BY VOLUME - LAST 6 YEARS

The first notably positive take is that all sectors have seen a year on year increase in deal volumes. 2024 did start slowly, but there was a surge of deals in the second half of the year that really drove up the numbers.

The Health sector witnessed the highest increase of 20% aided by a number of completions in health services and pharma/life sciences.

Construction was another sector performing well with a 14% increase in deal volumes, partially helped by the rise in demand for modular and off-site construction companies.

Positive signs for all sectors and worth noting that activity is on the increase for anyone considering a sale in 2025.

UK DEALS BY VALUE - LAST 6 YEARS

We ran the same exercise looking at the total value of deals in each sector.

Every sector (bar Support Services) witnessed a year-on-year increase in the value of completed deals. Again, the Health and Construction sectors saw the largest rises with a whopping 220% and 77% increase in deal values.

Jill Turner, Research Manager at Experian said:

“After a subdued opening, our new figures show a welcome upturn in UK M&A activity in 2024, with stabilizing interest rates and lower inflation fuelling an increase in strategic borrowing and deal volume accelerating as the year progressed.

Businesses pressed hard to finalise transactions ahead of October’s Budget and heightened activity across a wide range of key sectors and metrics culminated in record-breaking deal volume in the final quarter.

Meanwhile, a surge in high-value M&A continued throughout the year, with corporate bidders and private equity sponsors competing for top-tier assets, and we saw a string of public companies taken private in multi-billion pound transactions - along with numerous big-ticket strategic deals in the financial services and telecoms space.

Investment levels were also on the rise, especially in the UK's booming technology sector, while on the sell-side, there were pleasing signs of stronger exit activity after a long lull.

Looking forward, some uncertainties remain, and our initial figures suggest a relatively slow start to 2025. As ever, access to high quality deal data remains of key importance in driving informed decisions - and lasting value - in the M&A space.”

CONCLUSIONS

There were 7,492 transactions announced last year, up by 11% from the 6,762 deals agreed in 2023, representing the UK's highest annual volume since 2018.

Private equity-backed deals were on the up last year too, with an 18% upturn in buy-out volume - including a soaring secondary market - and a 6% upturn in the number of venture capital investments.

We've witnessed first hand that the demand from trade and private equity-backed buyers hasn't waned, especially at the start of 2025 where we have spoken to a large number of business owners who recognise a stability in the market, meaning now is good time to explore their exit options with more conviction.

If you're considering whether now is the right time to sell or exit within your sector, we're on hand to give you advice and guidance.

All conversations are in complete confidence.

La Salle advise Specialist Care Provider on sale to Elysium Healthcare

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 09:45:24 GMT

La Salle are delighted to have advised Bedfordshire-based specialist care provider Vivre Care on the sale of the company to Elysium Healthcare, part of the global Ramsay Health Care Group, listed on the Australian stock exchange (ASX).

Overview:

Leading mental health service provider Elysium Healthcare has expanded its provision of specialist eating disorder services with the acquisition of residential care provider Vivre Care.

Established in 2007, Vivre Care provides specialist support for people with severe eating disorders. Its services align with the NHS strategy of prioritising community-based treatment.

Vivre Care also complements the existing specialist eating disorder pathways within the Elysium group for adults and young people across England and Wales.

Joy Chamberlain, Chief Executive Offices at Elysium said:

“I am delighted that Asha Mootoosamy and Vivre Care will be joining the Elysium family. I have been impressed by the quality of care and the delivery of successful outcomes enabling people to access the right care, in the right place at the right time."

Vivre Care Director, Asha Mootoosamy, said:

"Elysium Healthcare are synonymous with specialist eating disorder care and I am confident that they will support the services to go from strength to strength. I am also delighted to be joining the Elysium team to further develop the model of care.”

La Salle Corporate were instructed as Vivre Care’s Corporate Finance advisor.

Matt Dillon, Partner, La Salle Corporate added:

“It was a pleasure to advise Asha on the sale of her company. It’s a fantastic business that provides a wonderful service to those in need. I’m sure the business will flourish under Elysium’s stewardship”.

Company Profiles:

Elysium Healthcare – Head Office: Borehamwood, Hertfordshire UK

Elysium Healthcare, launched in November 2016, operates over 95 sites across England and Wales. It offers services for learning disabilities, neurological care and specialist mental health support, including secure services, CAMHS, rehabilitation, acute care and psychiatric intensive care. Elysium is part of Ramsay Health Care

Vivre Care – Luton, Bedfordshire, UK

Since 2007, Vivre Care has operated as a leading supplier g specialist supportive clinical management (RSSCM) of severe eating disorders.

A well-trained team of 45 employees are deployed across 3 freehold care homes in Luton.

Read more about this deal around the web:

(La Salle have no control over media on external links)

Elysium Website

Insider Media

Sector Spotlight: Specialist Healthcare

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 12:09:56 GMT

How has M&A fared in the Specialist Healthcare sector in recent months?

The specialist healthcare M&A sector in the UK has been buzzing with activity in recent months, presenting a blend of challenges and successes.

One of the foremost challenges can be navigating the complex regulatory environment. The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has been vigilant in recent years in scrutinizing deals to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure fair competition. This heightened scrutiny can delay approvals and create uncertainty for companies, as seen in the protracted review of the merger between Circle Health and BMI Healthcare in 2019 with investigations continuing well after the transaction had completed. The CMA’s intervention, aimed at preventing reduced patient choice, underscores the regulatory hurdles that can complicate M&A activities.

Financial constraints also pose a significant challenge. The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to strain healthcare budgets, making it harder for smaller entities to sustain operations independently. These financial pressures are driving many healthcare providers to seek mergers as a survival strategy. For example, the 2021 acquisition of the UK-based care home operator HC-One by Safanad and Court Cavendish highlights how financial instability can spur consolidation. This deal aimed to stabilise HC-One’s operations and ensure continued care for its residents by leveraging the resources and expertise of its new owners.

Despite these challenges, the UK specialist healthcare sector has seen notable successes in the last decade. One such success is the acquisition of Care Fertility in 2022, one of the UK’s leading fertility treatment providers, by Nordic Capital, a private equity firm. This deal aimed to expand Care Fertility’s network of clinics and enhance their technological capabilities, improving patient outcomes in the fertility treatment sector.

Technological advancements are also fuelling successful M&A transactions. Companies that integrate innovative technologies into their healthcare services are particularly attractive to investors. For instance, the acquisition of Push Doctor by Square Health 2 years ago is a prime example of leveraging technology to enhance healthcare delivery. Push Doctor, known for its tele-health services, merged with Square Health to provide a more integrated digital health platform, aiming to offer patients a seamless blend of online consultations and traditional healthcare services.

In summary, while the specialist healthcare M&A sector in the UK faces challenges like regulatory scrutiny and financial pressures, it is also experiencing significant successes. Strategic mergers, technological integration, cross-border transactions, and a focus on specialised care are driving growth and innovation. These trends showcase the sector's resilience and its potential for continued transformation, promising a dynamic future for healthcare M&A in the UK.

The following graphics & excerpts are from the First Page Sage report detailing Healthcare EBITDA & Valuation Multiples for 2023/2024:

During the research period, our analysts made the following observations about the current healthcare M&A market:

The subsectors with the highest multiples were non-essential healthcare companies: plastic surgery and medical devices. However, those industries have seen more inconsistency in valuations over time, rising and falling with major economic indicators.

The subsectors with the lowest multiples – but greater long-term stability in valuations – were addiction treatment and senior living, which tend to be viewed as slower growth businesses tied to physical real estate.

On average, companies represented by M&A advisors or investment banks saw a 23% higher multiple from buyers.

EBITDA Multiples for Private Healthcare Companies, 2020-2024 :

With the industry’s excellent performance (compared to other industries) in the current economic down-cycle, and with more uncertainty ahead, we expect healthcare companies will continue to see high valuations and deal volume through the end of 2024.

The State of Healthcare M&A in 2024

Unlike other industries which saw declines from the macroeconomic turbulence of H2 2022, healthcare saw only minor losses—making it one of the highest performing sectors during the last year. There was a notable disparity in valuation between essential vs. non-essential healthcare companies. More stable subsectors like hospitals weathered the storm remarkably well, experiencing an ~7% reduction in EBITDA multiples, from 8.5x to 7.9x, while less essential healthcare specialties like plastic surgery experienced a more severe decline of ~20% in the same time span, from 11x to 8.8x.

While 2022 was a record year in healthcare M&A, deal volume slowed a bit in 2023, dropping 17% between Q3 2022 and Q3 2023. However, despite the decline in deal volume, multiples were climbing their way back up to 2021 levels, painting a picture of a 2024 M&A environment in which buyers are pickier about transactions, but willing to pay higher amounts.

Deal Volume Will Rise

Because of the economic downturn in H2 2022, many buyers chose to hold off on purchasing decisions until they were able to get a better sense of the macroeconomic outcome. As a result, there has been a great deal of dry powder in the hands of buyers which has not yet been deployed. As the economy improves, we expect this dry powder will be used quickly as buyers attempt to grow their businesses.

Private Equity Will Focus on Middle Market Companies

With the margins for error being as high as they are due to economic uncertainty, private equity companies are more likely to prioritize the purchase and sale of smaller portfolio companies due to the greater amount of profit which can be extracted from their eventual sale. Activity amongst these buyers saw a slight decline at the end of 2022, but came back in late 2023, indicating an intent to capitalize on the existing stability while it lasts.

How the recent overhaul of LSE listing rules could impact UK M&A activity

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 09:05:32 GMT

UK regulators have overhauled their rules for companies looking to debut on the London Stock Exchange.

We look at what impact these relaxing measures could have on UK M&A activity in the coming weeks and months.

1. Enhanced Attractiveness of the LSE

Simplified Listing Process: Streamlined and simplified listing requirements could make the LSE more attractive to companies, potentially increasing the number of listed companies. A higher number of listed entities should expand the pool of potential acquisition targets.
Increased Listings: With easier and more appealing listing rules, more companies might choose to go public, enhancing their visibility and valuation. This could attract interest from acquirers looking for robust, publicly traded targets.

2. Valuation Effects

Higher Valuations: Improved listing rules might lead to higher valuations for companies due to increased investor interest and liquidity. Higher valuations can make listed companies more attractive as acquisition targets, encouraging M&A activity.
Market Confidence: If the overhaul improves market confidence, it could lead to higher market valuations overall, which can facilitate more stock-for-stock transactions in M&A deals.

3. Increased Competition

More Target Companies: With a greater number of companies choosing to list, there is an increase in potential acquisition targets, leading to heightened competition among acquirers. This could drive up the price of M&A deals.
Strategic Moves: Companies may pursue M&A to consolidate their market position in a more competitive environment, driven by the influx of newly listed firms.

4. Access to Capital

Improved Capital Access: Easier access to public markets can provide companies with the capital needed to pursue growth, including through acquisitions. Companies with strong balance sheets and ready access to capital markets are better positioned to engage in M&A.
Funding Flexibility: The ability to quickly raise funds through public listings can offer companies greater flexibility to engage in opportunistic acquisitions.

5. Market Dynamics and Investor Interest

Boost in Investor Sentiment: Positive changes in listing rules can boost overall market sentiment, making investors more supportive of growth through acquisitions. This can lead to increased funding for M&A deals.
Increased IPO Activity: A surge in initial public offerings (IPOs) can create a dynamic market environment, with newly listed companies often becoming active in M&A either as acquirers or targets.

6. Regulatory and Compliance Factors

Regulatory Clarity: Clearer and more business-friendly listing rules can reduce the regulatory burden on companies, making it easier for them to engage in M&A. Compliance becomes less cumbersome, facilitating smoother transactions.
Attraction of Foreign Investment: Enhanced listing rules might attract more foreign companies to list on the LSE, increasing cross-border M&A activity involving UK-listed companies.

7. Strategic Positioning and Exit Opportunities

Enhanced Exit Strategies: For private equity firms and other investors, improved listing conditions provide better exit opportunities through IPOs, which can be followed by strategic M&A activity as companies look to further consolidate or expand.
Strategic Listings: Companies might list on the LSE as a strategic move to enhance their acquisition capabilities, leveraging their public status to pursue growth through M&A.

What are your thoughts on this move? Is it a positive step supporting growth or are there any pitfalls on the horizon?

Sector Spotlight: Manufacturing

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 14:36:36 GMT

How has M&A fared in the Manufacturing sector in recent months?

The UK manufacturing M&A sector has faced a mix of challenges and successes in recent months.

One significant challenge has been the economic uncertainty caused by fluctuating inflation rates and varying interest rates, which have made it difficult for companies to forecast future performance and plan acquisitions accurately. Additionally, supply chain disruptions, a lingering effect from the pandemic, have impacted production schedules and cost structures, complicating valuation and due diligence processes.

Despite these challenges, there have been notable successes. Manufacturing companies have seen an increase in the average EBITDA multiples, indicating stronger valuations and investor confidence. Segments like aerospace and industrial IoT have particularly benefited from higher multiples, reaching up to 11x EBITDA*. This demonstrates a robust demand for companies in high-growth and high-tech manufacturing niches, suggesting a selective but strong market for certain types of manufacturing businesses.

*Source: First Page Sage ( Manufacturing EBITDA & Valuation Multiples – 2024 Report)

Another success has been the recovery in deal activity. Although 2023 saw a decline in deal volume compared to the previous year, there has been a resurgence in activity toward the end of the year and into 2024. This resurgence is partly due to stabilising economic conditions and a renewed confidence in the market. Companies are more willing to engage in M&A activities as inflation eases and interest rates become more predictable.

However, the regulatory landscape remains a hurdle for many deals. Navigating the complex web of compliance requirements can delay or even derail transactions. Ensuring that all regulatory approvals are secured is a time-consuming process that adds layers of complexity to the M&A process. This is particularly true for manufacturing companies, which often have extensive environmental and safety regulations to comply with.

On a positive note, technological advancements in manufacturing processes have also played a pivotal role in enhancing the attractiveness of manufacturing firms. Companies that have invested in automation, AI, and other advanced technologies are not only more efficient but also more appealing to potential buyers. These technological advancements are seen as value drivers, increasing the overall valuation of these firms and leading to more successful M&A outcomes.

Lastly, cultural integration post-merger remains a challenge but also a critical success factor. Effective cultural integration ensures that merged entities can operate smoothly and achieve the desired synergies. Companies that have focused on aligning corporate cultures and managing the human aspect of mergers have seen better post-merger performance, highlighting the importance of this often-overlooked aspect of M&A.

Overall, while the manufacturing M&A sector in the UK faces significant challenges, the successes in achieving higher valuations, recovering deal activity, and leveraging technological advancements indicate a promising outlook for the coming months.

Sources (First Page Sage, PwC)

UK M&A Market Activity Year End 2023

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 10:26:19 GMT

The annual M&A Review, compiled by Experian MarketIQ, was released last week detailing UK M&A activity for 2023.

As usual, we take a deeper look at the numbers and pick out the positive highlights that will help to navigate the M&A landscape for the coming months.

To compare year-on-year figures for deal volumes and values isn’t going to produce anything we don’t already know. Nearly all sectors felt the pinch in 2023 and witnessed a decline in activity in some form.

Where we believe the figures get interesting is when we look back a little further, comparing pre & post pandemic. This provides a much broader view of how each sector has grown or contracted which can help when looking forward or making plans to sell at the right time. With these latest figures we can compare a full five year period, so let’s get started…

UK DEALS BY VOLUME - LAST 5 YEARS

If we first look at the % change between 2022 & 2023 it’s clear that deal volumes were down in every sector, most notably in Infocomms, Support Services, and Health.

Then, when we look at the comparison between pre-pandemic levels of 2019 and (a struggling) 2023 we see a different picture with several sectors performing better, other than Financial Services which has been hit hardest by interest rate and inflation rises.

2023 was a year plagued with multiple economic challenges, but still managed to out-perform 2019 in the majority of sectors.

UK DEALS BY VALUE - LAST 5 YEARS

We ran the same exercise looking at the total value of deals in each sector. Manufacturing and Wholesale & Retail were the only sectors that out-performed year-on-year (22-23).

The Construction sector saw the biggest drop off in terms of deal values (down 55%) after three years of steady growth.

Again, when we look back and compare 2023 to pre-pandemic levels of 2019 we see the majority of sectors welcoming huge leaps in transaction values.

The Health sector continues to perform well with the ongoing drive in health tech deals contributing to a 76% increase in spending since 2019.

Jill Turner, Research Manager at Experian said:

"Despite an overall decline in activity, there were pockets of growth in certain sectors – in energy, and in areas of tech such as AI – and the outlook for 2024 is cautiously optimistic.

M&A remains a strategic priority for businesses, private equity dry powder is still at historically high levels and there is a healthy pipeline of transactions that were postponed last year due to market volatility.

With the sense that the rise in inflation and interest rates may well have peaked, deal makers are increasingly able to take a longer-term view of the market and feel more comfortable in pushing forward with major investment decisions - raising hopes for an upturn in deal activity in the year to come."

CONCLUSIONS

With growth in Energy and AI Tech, plus deal values in Manufacturing and Wholesale & Retail up 18% and 73% respectively, there are reasons to welcome 2024 with an optimistic smile rather than a wince.

Private Equity deals accounted for 26% of deals in 2023 (1,645 transactions) meaning there are a number of viable, attractive exit strategy options available to business owners in addition to trade deals.

The figures above are illustrative and one or two high profile deals can skew the deal value numbers. From our perspective, the lower mid-market with which we operate in has been largely unaffected in terms of the number of clients looking to sell and the number of acquisitive parties active in the market.

We're still busy and have managed to achieve excellent prices for our clients for a number of years.

If you're considering whether now is the right time to sell or exit, we're on hand to give you advice and guidance.

All conversations are in complete confidence.

M&A Insight: Lower Mid Market

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:28:45 GMT

The M&A industry trades in data and insight. So, there's an element of irony in that general opinion is summized by a limited amount of available information.

Reading many articles in 2023 about the state of play in the M&A industry, and you will hear that high interest rates have made borrowing expensive, subsequently slowing the post-Covid surge in deal volumes and values.

While the picture painted isn't all doom and gloom, the information used in this reporting is often limited to knowledge of the biggest deals at the top end of the market.

What about the rest of the M&A markets?

In a recent white paper offered by Finquest titled " The Next M&A Frontier: Navigating the Untapped Potential of the Lower Middle Market " there is a deeper dive into what is happening from both the purchasers and sellers perspective.

The lower mid market (£5M-£150M revenues) accounts for around 30 times more companies than the top end (£150M+ revenues).

Given the economic reasons impacting investments and borrowing, the focus for many purchasers and fund managers is to now look beyond the top 3 players in a sector and instead adopt a systematic 'buy-and-build' M&A strategy.

Within the white-paper a survey was carried out detailing buyer interest (number of approaches made), and a separate survey of seller interest (willingness to have a conversation with an acquirer). When overlaying the results, the companies with the highest number of approaches ($50-100M revenue range), were the least willing to engage in conversation. Instead it was the $20-50M revenue bracket of companies that were more open to entertaining the idea.

As sell-side advisors operating in the lower mid market, we've seen first-hand the increase in demand for companies in our demographic. Also, the variety of deal-types on offer gives our clients more control, making PE or PE-backed deals significantly more attractive than in previous years.

Another interesting takeaway from the white-paper on the buyer interest side is that there is still a high number of companies within each revenue bracket who have never been, or are rarely, approached. The belief is that 'relationships and prevailing data-driven strategies to source deals remain highly inefficient.'

In terms of location, within Europe it is highlighted that German companies were the least willing to engage in conversations with a buyer, possibly down to generally being better grounded financially and having succession plans in place well in advance.

So, with the M&A landscape constantly evolving, we always encourage companies operating in the lower mid market to engage in conversations and regularly review exit strategies.

Data may not always be publicly available or up-to-date, which can impact on how attractive or primed-for-acquisition a company may be.

Demand fluctuates, personal situations and buyer strategies are constantly changing, meaning your company could be a more attractive proposition compared with 12 months ago.

Tap into our market knowledge and insight to see how we can assist in your exit strategy planning. Get in touch today for an informal initial conversation.

UK M&A Market Activity H1-2023

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 11:52:34 GMT

The latest Experian Market IQ Report was published recently, detailing UK M&A activity for H1-2023.

At first glance, the reporting doesn't look too encouraging but the lack of 'mega deals' (worth £5bn+) is a huge contributing factor. Let's look at the numbers...

With inflation and rising interest rates hitting the headlines on a daily basis, it's no surprise the impact this would have on the UK M&A market as a whole. At the larger end of the market there have been significantly fewer transactions and lower deal values being achieved during H1.

Let's look at Volume and Value by industry below:

Slightly skewing the figures is the one notable 'mega deal' which saw Dechra Pharmaceuticals Plc being acquired for £4.46bn - the largest deal so far this year.

LOWER & MID-MARKET

Does the lack of top-end deals reflect the whole market?

MarketIQ added the following comment in their report:

"An uncertain outlook meant that many UK companies looked to have put their M&A plans on hold in the near term and, following a prolonged period in which both cross-border corporate deal making and private equity investment in the UK boomed, both sources of activity declined in H1.

Increased interest rates have pushed up the cost of financing higher value transactions and, with potential acquirors also weighing up their ability to push through big ticket acquisitions in a more stringent regulatory environment, a shift towards smaller and mid-market M&A was apparent. "

So, not all doom and gloom, especially for the lower mid-market in which we operate. 'Every cloud' etc.

An article in the Financial Times also backed up the numbers:

"Dealmakers are focusing their takeover efforts on the UK’s middle-market companies this year, attracted by lower prices that can make those transactions easier to stomach in a bumpy and unstable market.

At the same time, massive transactions have fallen domestically to a near halt, as persistent domestic inflation and rising interest rates make such deals more costly to finance. Antitrust regulators are also more aggressively challenging big acquisitions."

The same article also went on to state:

“Where we are off is those elephant-type deals,” said one senior UK banker. “It’s not like we’ve gone out to target smaller deals but that’s where the opportunities are.”

Companies and private equity groups are now focused on more manageable transactions.

“People are more focused on strategic low-risk, more bolt-on, ‘right down the middle of the fairway’ type deals,” added one UK M&A banker.

So far this year, 85 per cent of firm takeover offers for UK listed companies, or 23 deals in total, have been worth less than £500mn in equity value, according to data compiled by the investment bank Peel Hunt.

That is the highest ratio since the start of 2020 and a significant increase from last year, when about 55 per cent of takeovers were in that lower range.

Advisers are optimistic that next year could see a return to larger deals when there may be more stability in markets and the macroeconomic outlook settles.

“Into ‘24 we should see larger deals start to re-emerge,” added another top UK banker. “When it comes back, it’s going to come back with velocity.”

Sources FT.com and Experian MarketIQ

For the market La Salle operate in, this shift to mid-market deals presents more opportunities for our clients.

We have not witnessed a slow-down in the appetite of clients seeking a sale or exit in the current climate. What we have seen is a larger number of investors and trade buyers from the top end of the market looking at companies they may have previously deemed 'too small' for a strategic acquisition.

As always, should you be considering an exit or looking to sell your company, it's best to explore all the options available to you.

Here at La Salle, because we specialise in sell-side, we work closely with shareholders and company owners to evaluate the best options for you, the individual, to get the maximum return on your years of hard work.

Reach out today for an initial, informal chat to see how we can assist you.

All conversations are in complete confidence.

UK M&A Market Activity Year End 2022

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 12:44:47 GMT

The latest Experian Market IQ Report was published recently, detailing UK M&A performance and activity for 2022.

We've crunched the numbers and looked back a little further to help measure where we're currently at...

Forecasters have had a torrid time predicting merger & acquisition trends recently. As the world attempted to recover from the pandemic, we've had the impact of a European war, plus a global energy crisis to contend with, making it even harder to predict spending and investment.

As we approach the end of Q1 2023, we know the final figures for 2022.

Was it a good or bad year? Can we simply measure against 2021?

2021 was the year that M&A bounced back post-pandemic, with investors keen to acquire companies in the mainly unaffected sectors (health, tech, and financial/support services). Additionally, 'pre-pandemic agreed' deals were able to complete and this burst of investment activity was unlikely to be sustained. Not a great yardstick to measure 2022 against!

We've taken these figures for 2022 and put them alongside figures going back to 2019 to compare against pre-pandemic levels to get a deeper understanding about where we've come and in what direction we might be going. Let's delve into it...

UK DEALS BY VOLUME

If we take the year on year figures for 21-22 we can see that only the Infocomms, Manufacturing, and Health sectors witnessed increases in the number of completed deals. Yet, we can flip that by comparing the pre-pandemic numbers of 2019 with 2022 which show only Manufacturing and Financial Services experiencing a dip in the number of deals.

UK DEALS BY VALUE (£M)

We performed the same exercise, this time on UK deal values across the same time period.

The above table reveals some major increases and decreases in the amount of money being spent on M&A in the UK between 21-22 and 19-22 respectively.

Looking at 21-22 to begin with, we can see that only the Construction sector revealed the signs of recovery with a 10.2% increase in spend. Positive news for a sector that was in danger of being left behind in recent times.

Supply and logistical challenges are evident in the figures for Wholesale & Retail which suffered the most in 2022 with a -70.3% drop in deal values.

Let's look at the pre-pandemic 19-22 comparison. In addition to the Construction sector, the notable increases were across Professional Services, Financial Services, and Health, 3 of the main sectors unaffected by the global challenges and seen as current hot investment prospects. Notably, the Infocomms sector (after a boom in consolidated deals at the start of the pandemic in 2020) has seen a levelling off in the years since.

CONCLUSIONS

There are obviously many factors to consider when reviewing the numbers and drawing comparisons between 4 years of figures doesn't provide every single detail on each sector.

But this exercise does shed light on the broader picture across UK M&A.

Depending on your source material and which forecasters you follow, this should help to draw your own conclusions on the state of play today.

As always, should you be considering an exit or looking to sell your company, it's best to explore all the options available to you. Here at La Salle, because we specialise in sell-side, we work closely with shareholders and company owners to evaluate the best options for you, the individual, to get the maximum return on your years of hard work.

Reach out today for an initial, informal chat to see how we can assist you.

All conversations are in complete confidence.

La Salle 2023 expansion plans

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 11:38:06 GMT

La Salle detail expansion plans for 2023 with prime Didsbury premises acquisition.

La Salle Corporate are capitalizing on a successful 2022 by growing the organisation and relocating the company to a prime trading location in the heart of the leafy suburb of Didsbury Village in south Manchester.

After a record year in 2022, La Salle Partners Matt Dillon and Sarah O’Reilly have chosen to reinvest the profits into purchasing the site at Xenon House (formerly Alan Gregory Musical Repairs). La Salle have operated from their Stockport HQ for over 10 years.

Exciting plans for the site include a conversion to two-storey office premises, presenting commercial space rental opportunities. Additional plans include a modern boardroom with bar and terrace area for hire to local companies seeking a private meeting space with a social element.

Renovations at the new site are expected to be completed Spring/Summer 2023.

Matt Dillon, Partner at La Salle Corporate added:

“We are very excited by our new offices. When the site came to the market, we knew we would never find a better location. We want to grow our team and feel that new, refurbed offices will help us attract talent from the North West area. We are excited by the future of La Salle and hope to see many of the Corporate Finance community visiting us at the new office – especially on a sunny Friday afternoon!”

More details to follow in the coming weeks and months!

Manchester Mind Charity Raffle

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 09:19:48 GMT

La Salle Corporate are helping to raise money for the Manchester MIND charity via our JustGiving page .

Your donation to the charity can really make a difference, and for every donation received over £10 you will be entered into a raffle prize draw to win an unrivalled match-day experience watching Manchester United in the La Salle Corporate box at Old Trafford.

A note from Manchester Mind:

Manchester Mind is an independent, local charity, which supports over 7,000 children, young people and adults each year. We believe that everyone deserves to be supported in their mental health needs and we have a part to play in that. Our charity values the commitment of our staff and volunteers, who work hard to ensure services are delivered in a way that enables people to feel heard and involved.

THE PRIZE:

The prize is a corporate match-day experience for up to six people in the La Salle Corporate box at Old Trafford, hosted by La Salle. Watch a Manchester United game* and enjoy panoramic views of the pitch, a four-course choice meal, complimentary bar, and pre-match entertainment.

HOW TO ENTER:

The minimum donation to be entered into the raffle is £10 but you can always donate more!

Closing date for the raffle is 12:00pm (noon) on Friday January 27th 2023. The winner will be chosen at random and notified via email on the same day.

IMPORTANT: Remember to enter your name & email address when donating so we can contact you if you win the raffle!

*Fixture to be decided based on availability of winner.

2022: End of Year Review

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 09:09:01 GMT

A quick look back over a successful last 12 months...

For a small team working in a big industry, we pride ourselves on working closely with and getting to know our clients (many become good friends!). As a result, we are very proud of our achievements in 2022.

Entering 2022, off the back of the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the subsequent energy crisis presenting challenges to the global economy, there was naturally a level of hesitance from sellers and investors.

We went back to basics, focusing on what sets us apart from the competition: taking the time to get to know our clients, really listening to them, and acting on their specific requirements. Offering this level of reassurance and guidance in times of uncertainty has paid dividends, not only for us but has achieved maximum value for our clients.

We have agreed on a record number of deals , and completed several high-value transactions for our clients in 2022, more than any previous 12-month period.

Despite dips in volumes and values of Manufacturing deals across the UK in Q3 2022, we have performed strongly within the sector.

Manufacturing sector deals accounted for two-thirds of completed transactions for our clients.

Highlights include the double-header deals of leading UK stretch-film companies Eurofilms and Quality Films to Swedish plastics giant Trioworld, backed by Altor Equity Partners.

Sandwiched between these deals, we advised on the acquisition of IT support firm Technique by Cybit, the parent company of Perfect Image, backed by Chiltern Capital.

In recognition, La Salle Partner Matt Dillon was nominated for Finance Professional of the Year in the Manchester Young Talent Awards in October.

In addition, we have successfully agreed on several deals due for completion in early 2023.

We have plenty of reason to look ahead to the new year with optimism.

Any company owner considering exit strategies or disposal in 2023 should remember that exiting a company isn't simply an accounting or legal process.

With all company sales, to achieve the maximum value, a level of understanding is required to undertake a focused sales & marketing process. This process is tailored and applied individually to each company and ownership structure. It is the main contributing factor to our continued success.

If you would like to discuss exploring your exit options in 2023, you can reach out any time over the festive period or download our Free Guide to Selling a Company .

Have a great Christmas and New Year!

All the team, at La Salle Corporate.

UK M&A Market Activity H1-2022

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 10:55:40 GMT

What effect does a global pandemic, a war on European soil, and the subsequent related inflation have on the UK M&A market? Let’s find out!

With so many outside influences on the M&A market in the last couple of years it has been difficult for forecasters to predict trends and assess investor confidence. Fortunately, the good folk at Dealsuite prepared a report surveying 327 M&A advisory firms operating in the UK & Ireland M&A market and compared the data from H1 2022 with H2 2021.

We picked out some of the highlights:

TRANSACTIONS

Which sectors accounted for the total number of transactions?

There weren’t any significant changes or surprises here. Core sectors such as Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals and Agri & Food saw increases, so did Automative, Transportation & Logistics which is another encouraging post-pandemic sign. What might be most surprising is that Hospitality & Tourism and Retail Trade, sectors both dealt heavy blows by the pandemic, only saw minimal decreases (-1% and 0 respectively). With these sectors likely to be hardest hit by the rising inflation and energy costs, it’s worth keeping an eye subsequent reports.

Transactions per sector.

Deal size:

There were significant increases in deal size over the period too. Encouraging for our clients and reflective in the deals we have advised on during 2022 - the percentage of transaction over £5 million jumped from 38% to 55%.

Transactions per deal size.

SECTOR MULTIPLES

During 2022 we at La Salle have seen an increase in the number of cross-border deals with a significant rise in interested parties from European and US investors and trade players. This table details the average multiples achieved in the UK when compared with neighbouring regions:

Comparison between average EBITDA multiple by sector (Enterprise Value) in the United Kingdom and Ireland and neighbouring countries.

BUYER INTEREST PER SECTOR

Also in the report was an insight into the average number of interested parties per firm, per sector. IT Services & Software Development continues to dominate the field in terms of interest from investors and trade buyers looking to consolidate.

Average number of interested parties per firm.

To conclude, the report asked advisors to assess their satisfaction and optimism for the period. The majority (82%) look back at H1-2022 with a sense of satisfaction, with another majority (69%) expressing optimism for the months ahead .

This satisfaction and optimism is shared by the team at La Salle after a record-breaking year for the company (more details to follow in our end-of-year report).

We eagerly await the findings of the next Dealsuite report in the new year to compare and contrast. In the meantime, if you would like to discuss your exit options or have any questions about M&A activity in your sector reach out to the La Salle team to arrange a discreet, initial conversation.

Swedish group completes another deal acquiring UK stretch film manufacturer

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 09:05:06 GMT

La Salle are delighted to announce the sale of Wolverhampton-based stretch film manufacturer Quality Films Limited to European plastic packaging group Trioworld. This is the second deal this year La Salle advised on involving the Swedish-based acquirer.

Overview:

Quality Films Limited are a key player within the UK market, producing high performance industrial and consumer packaging films and have a 35+ strong workforce.

Following the conclusion of a deal in March 2022 which saw La Salle advise Eurofilms in their sale to Trioworld, Matt Nicholson of Quality Films approached La Salle with a view to finding a buyer for the company.

A full process was undertaken, and a number of potential acquirers sourced from across Europe, the US and Asia.

Given the existing relationship formed during the Eurofilms deal, Trioworld emerged as the front-runners with the Swedish group looking to further broaden their portfolio and establish dominance in the market. The deal took under 5 months to complete, a month shorter than the Eurofilms deal.

Matt Dillon, Partner at La Salle Corporate commented:

"Having sold Eurofilms earlier in the year, we knew that the stretch film market was a buoyant sector. Quality Films is a well-established, reputable firm in this space so we were delighted to work with them. It was a pleasure to advise Matt, his family and Sonia on the deal. Trioworld was an obvious home for the business having acquired their competitor earlier in the year. I wish the business and the shareholders every success in the future."

Per Holtstrand, Divisional President of Stretch Film Division at Trioworld said:

"With our joint forces, we will continue to develop in the UK market with focus on sustainable high-performance solutions for load security.”

Matt Nicholson, CEO of Quality Films added:

“Trioworld will help to take the Quality Films brand to the next level and build on the foundations we have laid since 1994. Combining our experiences will be hugely beneficial for customers as we can deliver better quality and value, something we have strived for since day one.”

Trioworld Group CEO, Andreas Malmberg, comments:

"I’m very happy that Quality Films will join our journey in developing the best circular offering in the market for recycled plastics. Quality Films superior commitment to innovative products and customer support in UK gives a fantastic platform for enhanced growth.”

Company Profiles:

Quality Films Limited – Wolverhampton, UK (https://www.quality-films.co.uk)

Formed in 1994, Quality Films are an independent manufacturer of pallet stretch film, based in the heart of the Midlands (UK). Operating from a 30,000 square foot premises, the company distribute to the UK and Europe and have over 260 active customers.

Trioworld (backed by Altor Equity Partners) - Sweden

Group consists of 16 companies, 1,400 staff, and generates a €750m turnover.

Operates facilities in Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands and France.

Offers a wide range of plastic packaging solutions. Backed by Altor Equity Partners since March 2018.

Deal Advisors:

Buy-side Trioworld:

Legal: Oliver Duke at Walker Morris
Legal: Anders Luckander & Daria Yan at Mannheimer Swartling

Sell-side Quality Films:

M&A: Matt Dillon at La Salle Corporate
Legal: David Mkhitarian, James Down, and James Redshaw at Hill Dickinson LLP

Read more about this deal around the web:

(La Salle have no control over content published on external links)

Insider Media

MyNewsDesk

La Salle advise IT support firm on sale to PE-backed Perfect Image

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 10:53:32 GMT

La Salle are delighted to have advised business IT support specialist Technique Limited on the sale of the company to Newcastle-upon-Tyne-based Perfect Image, part of Cybit who are backed by Chiltern Capital.

Overview:

Thatcham-based Technique Limited is an engineer-led, business IT support company, only employing qualified IT support engineers with excellent technical backgrounds.

Co-owners Rob Samuels and Jonathan Prince instructed La Salle Corporate to assist with the sale of the company. A research exercise commenced, and this process helped identify the ideal acquirer for the company and suit the requirements of Rob and Jonathan.. Confidential off-market approaches were made, and a shortlist of bidders was formulated.

Backed by Chiltern Capital, Cybit, the parent owners of Newcastle-based IT solutions provider Perfect Image, expressed strong interest in their pursuit to establish a foothold in the South of England and a satisfactory deal was agreed and subsequently completed in March 2022.

Matt Dillon, Partner at La Salle Corporate said:

“Rob and John have created a fantastic business which they have provided unrivalled service to their clients. After 24 years of running the company, it was time for them to move on. It has been a real pleasure working with them and we are delighted with the end result. I wish Pixel all the best with the future of Technique”.

Cybit Chairman Tom Kelly added:

“The acquisition of Technique is a clear statement of intent and a strong indicator of our ambition to create one of the leading IT Managed Services and Data Analytics Providers in the UK. The entrepreneurial flair and talent we have inherited through the acquisition is impressive and I can’t wait to start working with them as we look to grow and scale to the next level.”

“This move significantly bolsters our geographic presence across the UK, further accelerating our expansion plans and driving new market opportunities. We are fully committed to our growth strategy with future acquisitions and brand investment in the pipeline. Watch this space.”

Kelly Simkiss, Cybit CEO commented:

“The acquisition of Technique is an ideal fit for our group brand strategy. The addition will create a powerful proposition to deliver secure end-to-end IT managed services to mid-market organisations across the UK. We see significant opportunities ahead for organic growth as we take advantage of the cross-selling and up-selling opportunities within each customer base. I see exciting times ahead and I look forward to working with the Technique team moving forward.”

Company Profiles:

Technique Limited – Thatcham, Berkshire UK

Technique have been providing day to day IT support, network services, and project-based IT consultancy to organisations since their incorporation in 1998. They have grown to help hundreds of businesses, across a wide range of sectors both in the UK and internationally, get the most from their IT.

Perfect Image Ltd – Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Perfect Image Limited is an IT services and data analytics provider that designs, develops, and delivers end-to-end cloud-based IT solutions for UK mid-market customers including Bellway Homes, NUFC, Northumbria Police, Middlesbrough Council, and Formica, helping support their digital transformations and enhanced business efficiency needs.

Cybit (Formerly known as Pixel Group)

Backed by Chiltern Capital, Cybit are an IT & Cyber Security Managed Services business that owns the brands Perfect Image and Cyphra and provides the following services to its customers:

• IT Managed Services

• Data Analytics

• Cyber Security Solutions

• Security Managed Services

• Professional Services

Deal Advisors:

Sell Side - Technique Limited:

La Salle Corporate (Matt Dillon) – Corporate Finance

Addleshaw Goddard (Richard Hunt, Aidan Barry) – Legals

Buy Side - Perfect Image:

Marriott Harrison (Jonathan Leigh-Hunt, Troy Featherstone) - Legals

Azets (Dan Nixon, Daniel Jonas) – FDD

CIL (Anthony Crutchett) – Commercial DD

Read more about this deal around the web:

(La Salle have no control over media on external links)

Real Deals (subscription required)

La Salle advise on sale of UK stretch film specialist to European group

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 11:04:59 GMT

La Salle are delighted to have advised on the deal which see's the UK's leading stretch-film specialist Eurofilms, join European plastic packaging group Trioworld.

Overview:

Based in Telford, Shropshire, Eurofilms are the UK’s largest pallet wrap/stretch film manufacturer with an annual turnover of £30m.

Will Humphrey’s, CEO at Eurofilms, instructed La Salle Corporate in September 2021 to assist with the sale of the company.

A number of potential acquirers were sourced from across Europe and the US.

As a leader within the UK market, and an established, sustainable brand there was naturally a lot of interest in Eurofilms. European plastic packaging specialists Trioworld emerged as the front-runners with obvious synergies between the two companies. The whole process took under six months from instruction to completion.

Matt Dillon, Partner at La Salle Corporate commented:

“Eurofilms is a well-established business in the stretch film space. This acquisition by Trioworld is the missing piece of the jigsaw for their European plans. From the start of the process, it is evident to see that Trioworld were the perfect fit. It was a pleasure to advise Will and the other shareholders on the sale and I wish them the very best for the future.”

Per Holtstrand, area manager of stretch film at Trioworld Group said:

“We are delighted to welcome Eurofilms to the Trioworld group. Eurofilms has shown very strong development over the last few years, contributing to the safer transport of goods on UK and European roads. The portfolio of innovative products and the excellent support of customers is impressive. The company is well invested and the management is focused on expanding the product offering for customers.

With our combined forces we will continue on this successful path"

Will Humphreys, CEO of Eurofilms added:

"We see Trioworld as a very good owner and partner in developing our business to the next level.

Both parties are bringing a strong product portfolio to market, with unrivaled service and expertise. Together we will be able to create more value for our customers”

Trioworld Group CEO, Andreas Malmberg, comments:

"I am delighted that our two companies can now join forces to develop the best circular offering in the recycled plastics market. Eurofilms' outstanding commitment to service and support in the UK and Western European market provides a fantastic platform for increased growth.”

Company Profiles:

Eurofilms Extrusion Limited – Telford, Shropshire, UK

Incorporated in 1995, Eurofilms have established themselves as the No. 1 manufacturer of pre-stretch films within the UK and No. 2 in mainland Europe, marketed under their Euro-lite range.

Trioworld (backed by Altor Equity Partners) - Sweden

Group consists of 16 companies, 1,400 staff, and generates a €750m turnover.

Operates facilities in Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands and France.

Offers a wide range of plastic packaging solutions. Backed by Altor Equity Partners since March 2018.

Deal Advisors:

Buy-side Trioworld:

Legal: Oliver Duke at Walker Morris
Legal: Mannheimer Swartling at Anders Luckander

Sell-side Eurofilms:

M&A: Matt Dillon at La Salle Corporate
Legal: Addleshaw Goddard - Richard Hunt & Victoria Kierans

Read more about this deal around the web:

(La Salle have no control over media on external links)

Insider Media

Swiss Packaging - News

Real Deals (subscription required)

The Business Desk

2021 - A year in UK M&A Review

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 12:14:10 GMT

The annual Experian Market IQ UK & Ireland M&A Report was published this week. How did 2021 compare to previous years? What impact did the pandemic have (or is continuing to have) on the value and volume of deals for the year?

As always, we delve a little deeper and crunch the numbers...

We wanted to avoid a straightforward year-on-year comparison and look for signs of recovery and sustainability in the numbers across all sectors. To compare 2021 performance versus 2020 could be slightly misleading. Just how many deals that were planned to complete in 2020, were put on hold until 2021?

This is a point highlighted in Experian's own assessment in the 2021 report:

"Mergers and acquisitions surged at the beginning of the year as businesses pushed forward with strategic transactions put on hold when the pandemic hit, and the UK’s first quarter figure sat more than 1,000 transactions above quarterly transaction volume in the middle part of 2020.

This unprecedented level of deal making – by some way the UK’s busiest ever opening to a year - was not sustained, with transaction volume receding to a more moderate level over the rest of the year. Still, the 6,917 deals involving a UK company in 2021 represented a 14.3% upturn on the 6,053 transactions announced the previous year, with close to every region of the country returning double digit year on year growth. With the high number of refinancing and rights issues carried out in immediate response to the pandemic receding as the outlook stabilised, more acquisitive deal types came to the fore."

There was a 27% increase in the number of corporate acquisitions and a 51% upturn in buy-out volume year on year, and high levels of cross border deal making and private equity investment were both prominent features of the UK deal landscape throughout the year."

So it would appear confidence is fairly high across the board as we stride into 2022. We looked at the last 3 years of volume & value figures and compared '21 with '20, and also '21 with '19 figures as a pre-pandemic comparison. The results were fairly positive in the latter comparison, especially for the lower-mid market we operate within. Experian stated that overall year-on-year values only dipped because of an absence of deals at the summit of the market.

"An absence of deals in the £20-£30bn category meant that the total recorded value of UK transactions, at approximately £320bn, fell by 6% year on year."

The above is evident, especially when we look at the Infocomms sector in the table below. The absence of a 'mega deal' accounted for the drop in values between '20 and '21, but comparing the '21 values to pre-pandemic 2019 and they are up 16%. Volumes in the same sector were encouragingly up 9% and 17% respectively.

A similar pattern emerges across the board with only Manufacturing and Health sectors showing single digit decreases in volumes when comparing '21 with '19. That being said, both sectors show increases on the previous year, evidence of an appetite for acquisitions and investment.

So, to conclude, with almost every UK region into double digit year-on-year growth in volume, and promising signs of values increasing in every sector (when comparing '21 with pre-pandemic 2019), the outlook is very positive for all sectors and for company owners looking at exit options in 2022.

We have fantastic connections within the UK M&A community. We know the companies seeking to acquire or invest, meaning we are able to present a range of attractive options to our clients.

And, because we are sell-side advisors, our clients are assured we always have their be st interests in mind.

Reach out to La Salle today and we can have a discreet conversation about the exciting options currently available to you.

Confidence booster as M&A activity bounces back

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 11:05:42 GMT

Following a difficult period, the latest Experian Market IQ report offers reassurance that deal volumes and values in the UK and Ireland are returning to normality, if not surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Year to date, the total value of UK Mergers & Acquisitions stands at £255bn - the highest Q1-Q3 figures since 2018 and a hugely encouraging sign that activity has bounced back following Covid-related uncertainty last year.

In terms of volume, the Infocomms, Manufacturing, and Wholesale & Retail sectors are up by 16%, 14%, and 28% respectively.

Deal Volumes:

Data provided by Experian MIQ Reports

These increases aren't localised to any one area. Every region of the UK and Ireland has also registered double-digit increases in the number of concluded deals.

Looking at deal values, the health, construction, financial, professional, and support services sectors have all seen increases, with several by triple-digit percentages.

Deal Value (£m):

Data provided by Experian MIQ Reports

While the technology and health sectors were the quickest to recover from the pandemic, the latest figures paint a much more positive picture across the board.

For any company owners toying with the idea of exiting or disposing of shares, this report should offer the reassurance and also be factored into any ongoing exit strategy planning.

For assistance with your company exit strategy planning, or to get an insight into M&A activity within your sector, we are happy to have an initial chat to answer any questions.

Our network of private equity contacts and trade buyers are constantly seeking a variety of opportunities, perhaps a company like yours.

Contact a member of the La Salle team today.

La Salle Shortlisted for Insider NW Dealmakers Awards

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 10:42:02 GMT

La Salle are delighted to have been shortlisted for the 2021 Insider Media 'Dealmaker Awards' for the advisory role in the Accrol purchase of John Dale Ltd.

The judges looked at deal size, deal volume, complexity of deals and this year also recognised organisations that stepped up and stepped in when others did not.

La Salle acted as sell-side advisors to Pauline and John Dale of John Dale Ltd (a Flintshire-based Wet Wipe Manufacturer for over 25 years) and agreed a deal with purchasers Accrol Group Holdings plc.

The sale took under eight months to complete from start to finish despite the country being in complete lockdown for most of the negotiation stage and bidding process.

Much of the deal was conducted remotely with limited in-person meetings. Uncharted waters for those involved but a great example of all parties coming together to get the best deal done.

The award ceremony takes place at Manchester Central on 28th October 2021 and features some of the region’s biggest names, dynamic challengers and most resilient players.

La Salle advise on sale of wet wipe manufacturer to PLC

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Sat, 28 Aug 2021 13:40:24 GMT

La Salle are delighted to have advised John and Pauline Dale on the sale of John Dale Limited to Accrol Group Holdings plc.

Overview:

The pre-sale process for the Flintshire-based wet wipe manufacturer began in earnest back in 2018 when initial conversations took place between La Salle and John. Over the next two years the relationship matured, and personal circumstances changed. It was in July 2020 when La Salle were officially instructed as advisors to seek a purchaser for the company.

Taking on a new instruction during a global pandemic presented a unique set of hurdles to overcome. La Salle Partner Matt Dillon relished the challenge and took a leaf out of John Dale’s own book (yes, John has an autobiography available) in overcoming adversity to deliver a smooth sales process.

The sale took under eight months to complete from start to finish despite the country being in complete lockdown for most of the negotiation stage and bidding process.

Much of the deal was conducted remotely with limited in-person meetings. Uncharted waters for those involved but a great example of all parties coming together to get the best deal done.

Background:

John, together with wife Pauline, formed the manufacturing company in North Wales back in 1990. John Dale Limited developed into a major supplier of own label, branded, and award-winning wet wipes within the UK.

Those who know John will be aware of his tenacity and expertise as a businessman, not one to rest on his laurels or dwell on the fact he has been without sight for the majority of his life. His enviable achievements include John Dale Limited, receiving an MBE in 1997 for Services to Industry in North Wales and publishing his 2019 autobiography “Bobbins are not for me – The Life and Times of John Dale”.

The Deal:

The acquisition sees Accrol, the UK’s leading supplier of everyday tissue products, take control of the 47,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Flint together with over 100 staff. It also delivers the listed group a stable platform to develop and expand their foray into the high-growth wet wipe segment of the tissue market.

Quotes:

Matt Dillon, Partner at La Salle Corporate said:

“It has been a pleasure to advise John & Pauline on their sale.

For any individual to start a business, grow it and sell it to a PLC is an incredible feat. However, John managed this having lost his sight as a child. It is true testament to his character, drive and determination.

I am in awe of what he has achieved, and it was truly a pleasure to advise him with his sale. I am so proud of him and I wish him & Pauline a very happy retirement that they deserve. We will remain friends for a long time."

Dan Wright, executive chairman of Accrol, added:

"A move into the attractive wet wipes segment has been on our radar for some time; as a natural extension of our product range and wholly in line with our growth strategy across the household products category.

It was essential, however, for us to find a business with a disruptive and environmentally friendly product which we could scale through organic investment.

John Dale fits our criteria for growth - quality of product and market positioning, operating excellence in its asset base, and the optimisation of our distribution strengths. It gives Accrol a ready-made platform on which to build a sizeable wet wipes operation and presents an unmissable opportunity for us to compound shareholder value."

Gareth Jenkins, chief executive of Accrol, added:

"John Dale is an excellent business, with three modern wet wipe machines, which are significantly under-utilised.

We are confident that, with our wide customer base, market and operational know-how and a modest investment in additional machine assets, we can scale this business significantly, while generating strong margins, over the next two to three years.

The slack within the property and working capital assets of the business will fund much of this growth and accelerate financial returns."

John Dale MBE concluded:

"La Salle introduced a number of potential buyers early on in the process. We quickly identified the right buyer which suited our circumstances as the deal progressed.

It was important to me that my staff were looked after under new ownership. After 25+ years together, many of them are like family. Accrol’s personable approach gave me the assurance I was seeking and I’m confident the staff are in safe hands.

I was pleasantly surprised at the short time it took to complete the deal and hadn’t planned for it to be concluded so quick!"

Deal Advisors:

Buy-side Accrol:

Zeus Capital (nominated advisors) & Liberium Capital (joint broker)
M&A: Ben Wood and Jarek Steadman at Deloitte
Legal: Mark Halliwell and Ffion Brumwell-Hughes at Gateley
Tax: KPMG

Sell-side John Dale Ltd:

M&A: Matt Dillon at La Salle Corporate
Legal: Hill Dickinson – Richard McKay & Elizabeth Jones

Read more about this deal around the web:

(La Salle have no control over media on external links)

Is 2021 a good time to sell?

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 14:43:44 GMT

M&A Market Activity Report H1 2021

The latest Experian Market IQ report has been published providing an insight into M&A deal volumes and values for the first half of 2021.

Activity in the market (from our perspective as an adviser) doesn't appear to have been hugely affected by the pandemic over the last 18 months.

We've delved deeper into the data to see how the first half of 2021 compares to the same period in 2020, and also pre-pandemic in 2019.

In the main, the comparisons are encouraging and demonstrate a buoyant M&A market for any company owner pondering an exit now or in the near future.

Looking at the figures...

The first comparison we looked at was Deal Value . The biggest takeaway is that H1 2021 is out-performing the pre-pandemic values of 2019 in all but the Real Estate sector.

Infocomms has been virtually unaffected by Covid, and if anything, activity increased during the two lock-down periods during 2020. Although value has dipped slightly in the first half of 2021, the sector remains extremely attractive for buyers and investors.

Last three years M&A activity by Deal Value (H1 Comparisons) :

Data provided by Experian MIQ Reports

Next, we looked at Deal Volume , and as mentioned above, Infocomms continues to lead the way as the most active sector for number of deals.

An encouraging observation is that all sectors in H1 2021 are beating H1 2020 which demonstrates a level of confidence returning to the market.

Last three years M&A activity by Deal Volume (H1 Comparisons) :

Data provided by Experian MIQ Reports

Here at La Salle, we witnessed an increased demand for businesses during 2020 in the unaffected sectors, namely Infocomms, Manufacturing, and Health Care. Looking at the figures above there's no surprise.

We are also glad to report that now in 2021, enquiries and interest from investors and trade buyers alike, is returning to pre-pandemic levels across all the sectors we work with.

Looking ahead...

The last 18 months have provided ample time for reflection, and as mentioned previously, if you are flirting with the idea of selling or would like to know more about what exit opportunities are available, get in touch with the team here at La Salle.

We are more than happy to explore your exit options and show how our Partner-led service can be of real benefit to you.

Introducing Your Personal Exit Strategy Organiser

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 14:04:51 GMT

We created a personally tailored exit strategy organising tool for company owners.

We speak to many company owners on a regular basis, hundreds a week.

When we ask the question "Is an exit from the company on the horizon?" the most common responses are "I haven't made plans" or "I'm not currently looking at selling but if the right opportunity presented itself, I would consider an exit".

It is with the interests of these company owners in mind that we designed and created the Personal Exit Strategy Organiser.

As sell-side advisors, La Salle Corporate is uniquely positioned within the marketplace to take instruction from company owners seeking a full or part-share sale via a sourced trade buyer or private equity investment as a form of growth or route-to-exit.

But what about the company owners who aren't actively seeking an exit at present?

With the introduction of the Personal Exit Strategy Organiser, La Salle now offer an additional, free-of-charge service to appeal to (what is likely) the mindset of the majority of company owners.

We put a lot of thinking into the creation of the Organiser tool. It's aimed at company owners who aren't actively seeking an exit at present, so it has to be non-intrusive and requires minimal effort from a user perspective, and above all, it has to be confidential.

In essence, the Organiser works like a personally tailored mailing list on two separate levels. Acting as a gentle reminder to periodically review exit plans with useful pointers on how to do this, and also as an alert tool that uses specific company data (size and sector) to bring exit, sale, or investment opportunities to the attention of the user.

The latter is where our industry knowledge and expertise come into play. Our network of buyers and investors is unique to La Salle and we constantly keep an ear to the ground to seek out opportunities for existing and future clients, along with monitoring acquisition trends from some of the major PE firms.

As a company owner, it's not always easy to ask questions or speak openly about your company exit plans for fear of alerting staff, customers, suppliers, or competition to your intentions. Because of this, it can be a subject that often gets criminally overlooked or ignored.

As the old saying goes "it's lonely at the top". We believe the Organiser also acts as a vehicle for keeping in touch with someone who has your best interests in mind, in a way, it's like having our business card to hand but it's not going to fall out of your wallet for the world to see.

Click Here to find out more about the Exit Strategy Organiser

We have additional resources, including our Focus On series and general mailing list, that can be accessed by Clicking Here

The budget we wanted?

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 10:10:03 GMT

Last Wednesday’s budget was viewed by many anxious eyes, particularly business owners.

With unprecedented levels of government borrowing in the last twelve months to claw back, many in the city forecast there would be immediate tax hikes across corporation and capital gains taxes.

But, for the majority of business owners, this was a positive budget all-in-all, for now. The chancellor deemed the 6% increase in corporation tax in two years to be a seemingly adequate compromise reserved for the top 10% of businesses in the UK. He has off-set this against the introduction of the super deduction tax which, only time will decide if a popular move.

With more government help for business owners on the way in the coming months by means of business rates freezes, grants, loans, and furlough extensions and a strong emphasis of encouraging growth we can be allowed to have some optimism as customers and clients emerge from the pandemic with an appetite to spend and invest.

More sectors will be re-opening in the coming weeks, further stimulating the economy, which is a massive plus for anyone in business. The butterfly effect of public spending will be extremely welcome after a harrowing year!

The future’s bright?

The ‘positive future’ rhetoric currently being spun as we look to be emerging from the pandemic would have been unwoven and an unwise political move had the Chancellor focused on increasing capital gains tax at this stage.

As it transpired, this budget was not the time for Rishi to deliver a deflating blow to business owners.

But, we were constantly reminded that “this is the highest government borrowing since World War II”.

Is this reminder a sign of more damaging tax rises to come in the future? Probably.

It seems inevitable that CGT will be increased at some point in the future. Mr Sunak did commission a review into CGT in 2020 and percentages of up to 45% were rumoured by some experts as a result. Do not forget, the next budget is less than 10 months away, this November.

Our table below highlights a worst-case scenario should we see some of the rumoured capital gains tax rates introduced in terms of walk-away cash from a company share sale.

This example is based on a company share sale valued at £30million:

Mobile users: scroll left/right

When this CGT increase will be is a topic of much debate. Our advice to company owners is to be prepared.

Anyone with an inclination to perhaps sell or exit within the next three years should seriously be looking now at how best to prepare to get the best return. With these potential CGT increases on the horizon, opting to exit a little earlier than planned could mean the difference in millions of pounds in your pocket.

Get in touch for a conversation now.

We are more than happy to explore your exit options and show how our Partner-led service can be of real benefit to you.

In Conversation with: Carly Gulliver at Addleshaw Goddard

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 10:29:11 GMT

For the second of our 'In Conversation' series we spoke with Carly Gulliver at Addleshaw Goddard LLP. Carly provides an insight into M&A activity during lockdown from a lawyers perspective...

Q. For the benefit of our readers, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role at AG?

With around 9 years' post-qualification experience as a lawyer, I advise businesses, managers, investors and legal teams on a range of strategic transactions and day-to-day legal solutions. With a keen focus on the tech sector, I enjoy working with fast growing businesses in the tech and digital space. That said, I have deal experience across a range of sectors, including financial services, chemicals and industrials, manufacturing, logistics, and food and drink. I'm proud to have been recently recognised by my clients in Chambers 2020 as an "Associate to Watch" and by my peers in the corporate finance community, in the Emerging Dealmaker shortlist of the Insider Dealmaker Awards 2020.

My day-to-day role includes advising on acquisitions and disposals, investments and reorganisations at Addleshaw Goddard. We're a full service law firm, advising on corporate transactions, commercial contracts, data protection, intellectual property, employment, litigation and real estate – you name it, we cover it! We have a national and international footprint and advise across all sectors. With a team of over 1,200 lawyers, there's not much that we've not seen or can't offer a solution for!

Passions of mine include art (I'm a keen member of Leeds Life Drawing Class) and the gym (or these days, lots of walks and trail runs). I'm very close to family and enjoy spending time with them whenever I can.

Q. Are you still transacting on deals during the Covid-19 pandemic?

The last ten months has seen a real burst of deal activity, in spite of these challenging times. I've personally completed 7 transactions over the lockdown period , ranging across a number of sectors. These have included advising: 365 Response Limited, a Wakefield-based digital platform solutions business in the healthcare sector, on its investment from BGF; NorthEdge Capital LLP on its investment in Lights4Fun Limited, a Harrogate-headquartered e-commerce business, selling decorative lighting products; and the shareholders of Citihub Digital , a London and New York-based digital consultancy to the financial services industry, on a sale to Synechon, Inc.

It's certainly been one of the busiest times of my career!

Q. How do you think the market has been impacted?

In Lockdown 1.0, we saw a mixed bag of reactions in the market. On the one hand, a number of private equity investors closed their doors for new business, choosing to put their arms around their portfolio companies and focus on sustaining what they had. On the other hand, some investors put their foot to the pedal to close transactions quickly and ahead of further uncertainty on the horizon.

Since then, and up to Lockdown 3.0, I would (tentatively) say that the market has been on a steady forward trajectory. We have not (yet) seen a dramatic upturn in distressed deals. Private equity and corporate buyers have pushed forward with transactions, moving quickly but at the same time cautiously. Buyers are relying on extensive due diligence to make sure that they can complete transactions with as little risk as possible. Rumoured tax changes to Capital Gains Tax have also been driving sell-side activity, with entrepreneurs looking to sell their businesses before potential tax changes are introduced in early March.

Businesses have been challenged to pivot, look internally at their strategy and outputs, and to innovate. There has been a wave of digital transformation in business and commerce. For businesses which have embraced these positives and who are thinking of selling in the near future, this strengthening of core assets can only be a good thing from a value creation perspective.

Q. Any top tips for a seller prior to the selling process?

At its most basic level, selling your company is a bit like selling a house - you'll want to make sure that it's in the best shape possible before viewers see your pad! This means making sure that your records and policies are in good shape, your contracts are in good order and that there are no hidden liabilities or surprises which could come out of the woodwork when a buyer starts to make its due diligence enquiries in the sales process. At the same time as going through a sales process, you'll have your day-to-day business to run, a team to manage, and your focus will also be on continuing to drive value and profits … If you think this sounds like a lot of work, you're right!

My best advice to you to get through this? Appoint your advisory team early so that they can help shoulder the heavy transaction workload and lead you through the process. Experienced advisors can help you to package up your business so that it's deal-ready, identifying and addressing any issues which might turn off a buyer. Preparation and planning are key to delivering a successful sale and to making sure that you sell your business for the best return.

Q. Why should a seller use a firm like AG, rather than their normal day-to-day lawyer?

We deliver! We have a large team of experienced lawyers who will be focussed on doing your deal.

We know our way around a deal! As well as regularly acting for sellers on sell-side transactions, we also act for buyers, investors and lenders. This means that when we sell your business, we can quickly anticipate any issues which a buyer might raise – we'll be on the front foot.

We're pragmatic, but drive a hard deal! We can advise you on what the 'market norm' is, helping you to avoid drawn-out negotiations, whilst also advising you where you can win points to drive value.

We're a down-to-earth, friendly bunch. Before you appoint your advisors, ask yourself how you will feel speaking to them on a daily basis and sometimes (although we try to avoid) around the clock… We build good relationships with our clients. If there is a chance, we want to work with you again – not just once on your sale!

(End of interview.)

If you are considering the sale of your company during the lockdown period you will undoubtedly have questions.

Speak to the La Salle team on 0161 975 1521 or use our Contact Form , alternatively you can Download our Guide to Selling a Company .

You guys give up or are you thirsty for more?

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 14 Oct 2020 09:33:41 GMT

With many of us still working home alone it can be easy to give up on previously laid plans, and it can be a little trickier to keep an eye on what's going on - fortunately we can report that the appetite for acquisitions and investments in the M&A market isn't showing signs of being left behind as we have found.

We are still getting together with purchasers and negotiating some fantastic deals for our selling clients (whether that be in-person, on the phone, or via Zoom, Teams, Hangouts, or if anyone is still using it.. Skype).

In recent reporting from Experian MIQ, UK deals from H1 2020 show increases across the Infocomms , Professional Services , Manufacturing , Wholesale and Retail , and Support Service sectors when compared with H1 2019. Naturally there was a dip over the same period for some sectors, with the volume of deals in the Financial Services sector down by 62.5% but this didn't translate to the value, which only dipped by 26.8% meaning there were some high value deals still being agreed.

Nationally, there were over 2500 completed deals in H1 2020. Outside of London and the South East, the Midlands ( 340 deals ), North West ( 269 ), and East of England ( 243 ) were the top three performing regions for deal volumes.

In terms of deal values, the South East ( up 414.87% ), North West ( +127.26% ), Wales ( +25.43% ), and East of England ( +5.47 ) all witnessed year-on-year increases between H1 2019 and H1 2020.

This should offer some reassurance for company owners currently deliberating their future or considering exit strategies. The buyers are still here, we are still here, we are agreeing some great deals, and at great prices too.

The main problem facing the M&A market at the moment isn’t the logistical workarounds or challenges presented by the pandemic, it’s purely a lack of available companies for sale in the market. This should be music to the ears of any company owner as a lack of competition drives up the prices being offered and achieved .

In addition to the traditional trade sale route there are some great private equity opportunities available right now, with investors needing to spend raised capital. We have well-established connections for which ever option is of preference to you.

As we approach the Christmas period there will be reflection on a unique year and plans being drawn up for 2021.

I f a company exit is on the cards for you, don’t leave those plans at home, alone. Now is a good time to be looking at an exit strategy and we are on hand to discuss the options that are available to you.

What's around the next corner?

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 06 Oct 2020 15:06:02 GMT

With the Autumn budget being delayed until March 2021 there are ominous signs that the Chancellor of the Exchequer will be looking to rise Capital Gains Tax.

It could be brought in-line with Income Tax in an attempt to recoup some of the £190 billion the Government has earmarked for the economy throughout and beyond the ongoing pandemic.

In July, he commissioned a review into Capital Gains Tax and also went on record stating "tough choices lay ahead" which some took as code for 'tax rises'.

If Capital Gains Tax is to be brought in-line with Income Tax this would likely be a phased process over the next 2-3 years.

However, if you look at the reduction in Entrepreneurial Relief in March of this year which was introduced with immediate effect, the same thing could happen with a rise in Capital Gains Tax

This would have a huge affect on company owners looking to sell or dispose of assets.

How could this impact me or the sale of my company?

Let's look at a real-world scenario:

Two equal Shareholders sell their company for £20million.

At the current rate of Capital Gains Tax:

As a worst-case scenario:

As you can see, this soon adds up and makes selling a less lucrative and appealing proposition.

We generally recommend company owners review their exit strategies every six months with various market activity affecting company valuations.

As you look ahead towards March 2021 and the uncertainty of the current pandemic you would be forgiven for 'holding off' on risk-taking, making any big decisions, and implementing any previously agreed strategies - but with this potential looming tax increase we urge you to consider is now the right time to sell?

We are witnessing first-hand that there is still an appetite for investment and acquisitions, in some sectors this has even increased, the main problem is there are not enough available companies to acquire.

If you are a company owners considering a sale in the next 2-3 years then get in touch for a conversation now. Delaying could mean the difference in literally millions of pounds.

We are more than happy to explore your exit options and show how our Partner-led service can be of real benefit to you.

In Conversation with: LDC

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 17 Aug 2020 08:35:38 GMT

We sat down with the Head of LDC in the North West Dale Alderson and Investment Director James Morris to discuss recent activity and how the pandemic has impacted investment strategies...

For the benefit of our readers, can you tell us a little bit about LDC?

LDC is the UK’s leading mid-market private equity house. We have almost 40 years’ experience backing more than 600 of the nation’s most ambitious business leaders, helping them to grow bigger and better businesses.

We typically invest between £10m and £50m in every transaction and are committed to investing £1.2bn in UK mid-market businesses over the next three years.

How are LDC different to other PE firms?

LDC is the private equity arm of Lloyds Banking Group. We back existing management teams to grow their businesses with the support of our capital and expertise. Having Lloyds Banking Group as our sole funder allows us to be more flexible with management teams and the timelines we work towards, meaning we can back business through every stage of the economic cycle.

We also have a UK-wide network of offices so we can work closely with local management teams and advisers.

For company owners who are not ready to retire or walk away from the business, can you tell us a bit about 'growth through acquisition' and your thoughts on this?

Buy and build is an attractive route to growth for businesses looking to build scale quickly, no matter the economic backdrop. When supported by an experienced private equity partner like LDC, it can effectively increase a firm’s market share, introduce new products and services or further consolidate a market to create an industry leader.

Since July 2018, LDC-backed businesses across the UK have acquired more than 45 companies with a total enterprise value of over £275million and more than one-third of our portfolio are currently on a buy and build strategy. With £100m available to each company we invest in, we provide follow-on funding to help management teams to make strategic business acquisitions happen. Our broader team can also provide extra support with integration.

What sectors or regions do you target?

As the private equity arm of Lloyds Banking Group, through our nationwide network of offices LDC is focused on supporting businesses in almost every sector in every region across the UK. We currently have a portfolio of 90 businesses across the UK across a broad range of sectors.

How has the current climate impacted you and are you currently investing?

Whilst transaction activity was slower in the second quarter, there are clear signs that the M&A market is rebounding with far more discussion and activity. Despite the many challenges posed by the pandemic, the fact remains there are businesses out there with robust and realistic growth strategies looking for partners who are able to support their longer-term ambitions as they navigate through the current climate. We remain committed to supporting these businesses and plan to invest £1.2bn over the next three years to help business leaders realise their growth plans.

We completed 18 deals in the first half of 2020. The majority completed since the onset of the pandemic, and our pipeline for the second half of the year building quickly.

End of interview.

If you would like to know more about how private equity investment may benefit your company, speak to the La Salle team on 0161 975 1521 or use our Contact Form here.

A change at the top at La Salle Corporate

Wed, 27 May 2020 09:34:50 GMT

Mark Whiteside • May 27th, 2020

The message we give to our clients is that ‘timing is everything’ and so, it is only right that we follow our own lead. To this end today, we announce the retirement of our Chairman, Paul O’Reilly.

Paul established La Salle Corporate over 30 years ago and chose to name the company in honour of his educational background having attended De La Salle Grammar School in Salford.

The running of the company will now pass into the hands of existing Partners, Matt Dillon and Sarah O’Reilly.

Paul said on his retirement:

“Recent events have shown us we have little control over our lives, and this makes one reflect. When we say ‘timing is everything’ it is true, and we have to follow the lead we promote.

Fortunately, in the hands of Matt and Sarah I know the company is in safe hands and will continue to maintain its reputation within the industry."

Matt Dillon said:

“Although it will be strange not having Paul around, both Sarah and I are ready to embrace the responsibility and are indeed, excited by the future. We are both grateful to Paul for the guidance he has given us.

We have built a brand that is respected in the M&A market and we are determined to drive the business forward. Despite the current climate, we have a strong pipeline of deals and intend to grow our team to further enhance our reputation.”

Throughout the lockdown period La Salle have offered a virtually uninterrupted service to existing and new clients. As of 1st June staff will be returning to the office. Read more on our Covid-19 updates page.

La Salle Corporate advises on MBO during lockdown

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 14 May 2020 11:14:37 GMT

It is easy to assume in these difficult and negative times that the world of business has stopped. We can report that this is not the case and La Salle Corporate have had the pleasure of overseeing the management buyout of Fairmont Recruitment Limited for an undisclosed sum during the lockdown.

Fairmont Recruitment was established in 2018 by Jack Donohue, with the backing of our Chairman, Paul O’Reilly.

Acting as Managing Director, Jack has built Fairmont Recruitment into a successful IT & technology recruitment agency with a well-established client base of blue-chip companies.

Paul O’Reilly said,

“I am pleased for Jack and the success he has created. As an Investor, I feel my role is now fulfilled and with what is happening around us, I feel it is time for me to re-evaluate my own life and future. I wish Jack all the future success he deserves”.

Jack Donohue commented;

“Without Paul’s foresight and unique innovative approach, Fairmont Recruitment would not be the success that it is today.

Although we are amidst challenging times, Fairmont has a solid foundation and a core of blue-chip clients with whom, remotely, we have continued to work with closely over recent weeks. We look forward to continuing to fulfil their requirements. I am sure whatever Paul’s future; it will no doubt involve reducing his golf handicap and I equally wish him well”.

La Salle Corporate have adjusted to the government restrictions and continue to advise our clients.

Our message is we are very much open for business.

Read our Covid-19 Update here

La Salle complete multimillion pound paper rolls deal

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 16:38:42 GMT

La Salle Corporate are delighted to have advised on the sale of Premier Vanguard, the country’s largest independent manufacturer of paper rolls, to EVO Group of Companies.

Bradford-based Premier Vanguard employs around 80 staff and has annual sales of more than £20 million ($26 million). It has been enjoying strong double-digit growth recently as it has developed specialised offerings for verticals such as retail, healthcare and hospitality, making it one of the strongest suppliers of GNFR (goods not for resale) in the UK.

Matt Dillon, Partner at La Salle, who led the deal, commented:

“It was a pleasure to work with John & Dominic. The strategic fit with EVO was evident from the first meeting and the deal provided individual exit strategies for John and Dominic. I wish them both all the best in the future and every success with Premier Vanguard”.

Co-Directors John Clemie and Dominic De Luca said:

“We feel that the time is right for Premier Vanguard to enter into a new phase and this transaction will strengthen our ability to drive the excellent diversification course we have proved successful at over the past 12 years. We are excited to be part of a larger group and look forward to the new opportunities this will bring us.”

Dominic also added:

“Matt has been absolutely critical to the success of this sale. His ability to steer you through the very choppy waters that any deal will bring is, to me, essential for anyone about to embark on this process. I would recommend Matt wholeheartedly and be happy to speak on his behalf. "

EVO Group CEO Steve Haworth added:

“This acquisition is a good fit with our strategy and will bring a wealth of opportunities to both EVO and Premier Vanguard. Premier Vanguard will continue to run as an independent group company alongside VOW”.

Package deal for French-German PE-backed firm

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 16:38:38 GMT

La Salle can report that Scunthorpe-based Moulded Fibre Products (MFP) who provide sustainable packaging solutions have been acquired by CDL Omin-Pac, an ecological packaging solutions company backed by Motion Equity Partners and Arkéa Capital.

Businesses acquired: Moulded Fibre Products Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 2012, the company are the UK's leading manufacturer and supplier of recyclable pulp packaging products. They are a supplier to the NHS, industrial and horticultural markets and provide packaging solutions to the fresh produce market as well as manufacturing products for healthcare companies

----------------

Purchaser: CDL Omni-Pac

Activities: The PE-backed company are based in Germany and France and are solely focused on sustainable and preservation solutions to the Poultry, Food, and Medical sectors. The group consists of over 500 professionals.

----------------

Additional info:

Richard Grimmer, MFP’s chairman, said:

"Last year it was clear that the team had some very exciting and ambitious growth plans to take MFP to the next level and we decided it was the right time to bring in a new partner to support this growth.

"It was important to me to bring someone in who could support the business achieve its ambitions, but also someone who understood the industry and was aligned in values. In CDL Omni-Pac I believe we have found that partner.

"I look forward to remaining involved as a director of the business in this exciting next chapter."

Cedric Rays, partner at Motion Equity Partners, added:

"After this second transforming acquisition under Motion Equity Partners ownership, CDL Omni-Pac is now a major European player in the packaging industry with a range of innovative and sustainable solutions in moulded fibre - a natural, recyclable and biodegradable material.

"The group offers a large range of products which naturally fits with MFP’s existing client-base. We also remain attentive to further build-up opportunities."

Timber specialist builds portfolio

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 16:38:33 GMT

La Salle can reveal that Horsham-based fencing and gardening supplier AVS Fencing has been acquired by timber and building materials merchants Lawsons.

Businesses acquired: AVS Group Holdings Ltd

Activities: The AVS group primarily trades through its' subsidiary AVS Fencing Supplies Ltd which was established in 1987 and incorporated in 1993. The company's products are divided into the areas of fencing, decking, railway sleepers, gates, sheds, mesh, wire, post bases, electric fencing, aggregates, ironmongery and fixings.

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Purchaser: Lawsons Holding Ltd

Activities: This company is engaged in the wholesale distribution of timber, building materials, and fencing materials in London and the South East. It offers insulation, roofing, steel, flooring, joinery, fencing, landscaping, decorating, ironmongery, and plumbing and heating products; and garden buildings, heavyside building materials, fixtures and fittings, tools, building chemicals, sheet materials, specialist loft conversion materials, and timber and moldings. The company was founded in 1921 and conducts its business from its corporate head office located in St Albans, United Kingdom.

----------------

Additional info:

AVS founder Ian Faires said:

"The values and ethos of both companies run in parallel and I had no hesitation in deciding that Simon Lawson (chairman of Lawsons) and his team were the perfect fit going forward.

"I am very proud of what we have all achieved at AVS during the past twenty-seven years and now is the right time for this move to take place."

La Salle complete Values in Care deal

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 28 Jan 2020 10:56:23 GMT

La Salle are delighted to announce another successful sale for a client in the Care sector. A South Wales-based care provider who specialise in supporting adults with autism and complex learning disabilities, has new owners.

Values in Care, which was set up by managing director Geraldine Butler in 2003 to provide specialist medium-to-long term 24-hour supported accommodation to adults with complex and challenging needs, has been sold to Swanton Care and Community for an undisclosed sum.

Swanton provides specialist, high quality care ranging from autism and learning disabilities to mental health and acquired brain injuries through its leading-edge facilities across England. The acquisition of Values in Care will allow Swanton to increase its footprint in Wales.

La Salle were instructed by Geraldine to identify potential purchasers. There was a great level of early interest generated before Swanton emerged as the likely purchaser. Lawyers at Royds Withy King and accountants and business advisers at RSM also assisted once Swanton's offer was accepted.

Matt Dillon, Partner at La Salle Corporate who led on the deal, said:

“I am delighted to have advised Geraldine on the sale to Swanton Care. Geraldine has been an absolute pleasure to work with and she should be immensely proud of the business she has built. Not only from a business side, but the fantastic care she provides to the individuals. I wish her all the best with her future plans which include working as a consultant with Values in Care. Swanton Care were also great to work with and I wish them every success in the future with Values in Care.”

La Salle client and Values in Care owner Geraldine Butler commented:

"After 16 years of running and growing my own business the time came to sell, as anyone who has their own business will understand this was an extremely hard decision to make. I was supported through the process by Matt Dillon from La Salle Corporate. From my first meeting with Matt it was clear that I was in good hands. He helped me navigate my way through the selling process, providing clear direction and support along the way.

The fact that Matt made himself available to be contacted at any time was very reassuring, especially through some stressful negotiation periods. I made the right choice in choosing La Salle and highly recommend them and, in particular, Matt to anyone thinking of selling their business."

Hazel Phillips, a Partner in the Social Care team at Royds Withy King, said:

“It was a pleasure acting for Geraldine Butler and advising her on the sale of the business she founded and clearly cares so passionately for. I know it was important to Geraldine that the transaction was as seamless as possible and that the new owners had a proven track record in this highly specialist area of adult care. It’s clear that Values in Care will be in very safe hands and we wish Geraldine all the very best in her plans for the future ”

Swanton’s values and ethos are very much aligned with those developed by Geraldine at Values in Care over the years and the Swanton team is looking forward to collaborating with the wider team at Values in Care and further expand its high-quality service provision.

Garry Cross, CEO of Swanton said:

“Values in Care is a great addition to the Swanton Group as it continues to expand geographically and across service lines. It underpins our ambition to build a leading care group in the UK with linked care pathways to better serve the needs of the people we support and commissioners. Swanton is now supporting c. 430 people across the UK.”

Health group flex muscles with Euro expansion

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Fri, 24 Jan 2020 10:36:36 GMT

La Salle can report that health and well being specialists Westfield Health have acquired High Five Health Promotion, a corporate fitness company with on-site gyms throughout Europe.

Businesses acquired: High Five Health Promotion

Activities: The global ultimate owner of High Five is Kienstra Sports B.V.. They provide on-site fitness and well being services to large brands including NATO, Shell, KPMG and Daimler. Their on-site gyms can be found in The Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and the UK.

----------------

Purchaser: Westfield Health

Activities: Founded in 1919, the company offer a range of personal health plans and employee healthcare solutions, as well as intermediary services. They are part of Westfield Contributory Health Scheme Limited which generated revenue in excess of £58million in 2019. They have almost 500 employees and and 65 gyms internationally.

----------------

Additional info:

Westfield chief executive Dave Capper said "Over its history, Westfield Health has built a track record of product innovation. This acquisition represents a continuation of our diversification into the exciting and important wellbeing market.

"By combining the two companies' expertise, we can accelerate our growth in this industry both in the UK and internationally, allowing us to make a healthy difference to more people."

High Five founder Paul Kienstra added: "It was really important to us to find a company that shared our values and vision.

"With Westfield Health's focus on evidence-based, preventative solutions and community giveback, it was clear that our shared philosophy and complementary capabilities would combine well, building on the success of both companies."

Mission Christmas charity appeal

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 12 Dec 2019 12:19:32 GMT

At our Stockport office, La Salle Corporate registered as an official drop-off point for gift donations for the Mission Christmas charity campaign in association with Hits Radio & Cash For Kids.

Kelly Hill & Tracy Bowden organised the charity event for La Salle and would like to say a huge thank you to all the generous gift donations and money raised from the staff, local companies in the area and family and friends.

Over 150 gifts, toys and presents were donated plus over 300 pairs of children's trousers! Over £600 was raised by employees and friends to buy some of the gifts.

Mission Christmas works closely with social workers, head teachers and also the emergency services. They nominate families in crisis to be supported by the appeal.

La Salle Corporate take great pride in their involvement with local charities and look forward to even more fundraising and charity campaigns in 2020!

More information on the great work undertaken by Cash For Kids can be found here

Press Release: La Salle complete Neil Bomford deal

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 13:05:50 GMT

We are delighted to officially announce the sale of La Salle client Neil Bomford Haulage Ltd to Northampton-based Howell Gordon. Purchasers Howell Gordon have initiated a buy-and-build exercise, using the purchase of Neil Bomford as the platform to achieve this.

Press Release in full:

Howell Gordon has expanded by acquiring a haulage company in Norfolk.

Founded in 1980, Neil Bomford Haulage has grown its fleet to more than 150 trailers and 90 vehicles.

It was advised on its takeover by Addleshaw Goddard in Leeds and La Salle.

Richard Hunt, corporate partner at Addleshaw Goddard, said: "Neil has worked very hard to build a hugely prosperous company and I have no doubt it will continue its successful growth trajectory under new ownership.

"There is considerable activity in the transport and logistics sector and we continue to build on our market leading reputation in this field with this transaction."

Matt Dillon, partner at La Salle, added: "Having founded the business some 38 years ago, Neil created a reputable haulage company within the South East of England. His reputation in the local market was second to none and from our initial meeting, we clicked immediately.

"It was a tough process, but we remained resilient to get the deal over the line.

"Howell Gordon has acquired a gem of a business which I am sure they will take to the next level."

Neil Bomford provided a testimonial adding: “I would like to thank you and your team for selling my business. From the time we decided to put it on the market, Matt gave me full confidence that he would sell our company. From start to finish, the communication was excellent, this included many late night and weekend calls."

Matt recommended Addleshaw Goddard as solicitors, and as a team we worked together to get the deal over the line.

I would just like to say a big thank you to you all, and if I were to do it again I would not hesitate to use Matt and La Salle. Thank you.

The Addleshaw Goddard team comprised Richard Hunt with Carly Gulliver, David Parker, Aidan Barry (corporate), Andrew Williamson (real estate), Jade Chan (tax), and Andrew Fordham and Jen Hanson (banking).

Deal agreed for Leeds Cloud technology specialist

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 14:25:59 GMT

La Salle can report that Adept4, a listed IT services provider with headquarters in Warrington has agreed a deal to acquire Leeds-based cloud technology specialists CloudCoCo.

Businesses acquired: CloudCoCo Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 2017, the company offer a range of managed services including cloud, voice & collaboration, network, and hardware & ICT procurement to clients in the public sector, enterprise, along with start-ups.

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Purchaser: Adept4 Managed IT Ltd

Activities: Incorporated in 2007, the company is engaged in the provision of managed IT infrastructure, technical consultancy, software development, telephony, and professional services to business enterprises in the UK and internationally.

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Additional info:

Simon Duckworth, chairman of Adept4, said: "We are delighted to have agreed heads of terms to acquire CloudCoCo which has a proven salesforce with an enviable growth track record.

"Subject to completion of the proposed acquisition, we plan to drive growth from both Adept4's existing customer base and CloudCoCo's own customers and pipeline. Furthermore, the associated proposed reduction in the company's debt would strengthen the group's balance sheet and demonstrate the strong support of our largest shareholder. We see this as a very positive step to return value to shareholders."

La Salle make it three in a row

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT

In the run up to the festive break we reported on handful of industry awards that La Salle had been nominated for. We are delighted to now confirm that another two awards have been added to our ever-growing list.

Firstly, La Salle partner Matt Dillon makes it an incredible three years in a row by winning ' 2019 - Deal Maker of the Year ' (awarded by Finance Monthly magazine).

Upon receiving the award Matt commented:

“To receive a nomination and to be recognised by peers within the industry is a great morale boost but to win the award for the third time in as many years just reinforces what a great team we have here at La Salle. It maybe an individual award but I’ll be sharing this with the whole team. Great effort again ladies and gentlemen!”

This award is based on the advisory role La Salle undertook in brokering the deal between client Elite Electronic Systems and Lonsdale Capital Partners.

In addition, La Salle has been awarded ' Best M&A Consultancy 2018 – North West England' in the Finance Awards 2018 by the judging panel at Wealth & Finance magazine.

Both of these accolades generate a positive outlook for 2019. As we look to build on our previous achievements we invite you to be part of our future success.

La Salle are strategically positioned to offer the best advice and guidance for all aspects of company exit strategies. So, talk to us today, draw from our experience and let us deliver an award-winning service for you.

La Salle haulage client completes multi-million pound deal

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle are delighted to announce the sale of our clients company Neil Bomford Haulage Ltd to an undisclosed party.

Operating from premises in Harleston, Norfolk, the company specialises in Haulage and Warehousing operations with clients across the UK.

La Salle took instruction from Neil and partner Pamela who were seeking retirement after many successful years trading. They were also the original founders of the company back in 1995.

Through our network of private buyers and investors a number of potential acquirers were identified, approached and shortly afterwards a deal was agreed.

Neil Bomford had these kind words to say:

“Hi Matt,

I would like to thank you and your team for selling my business. From the time we decided to put it on the market, Matt gave me full confidence that he would sell our company. From start to finish, the communication was excellent, this included many late night and weekend calls.

Matt recommended Addleshaw Goddard as solicitors, and as a team we worked together to get the deal over the line.

I would just like to say a big thank you to you all, and if I were to do it again I would not hesitate to use Matt and La Salle. Thank you.

Neil Bomford."

More information on this deal to follow.

Planning your exit should start at the beginning not at the end

Thu, 02 May 2019 09:30:31 GMT

It is not unusual for successful entrepreneurs to be consumed by the present and the need to drive their business without considering the long term future and more particularly an exit strategy.

There is an old saying that successful business people buy at the right time and sell at the right time and selling at the right time requires planning and that is why planning your exit should start at the beginning and not at the end.

La Salle Corporate are the leading corporate sales agency in the UK.

We advise companies on an exit strategy, we assist in planning their exit strategy and we then execute that strategy at the right time in order to achieve the best possible price for their company.

But we provide other services as well. Some companies can benefit from experienced third party investment and support. There are many investors with considerable commercial experience and expertise who will buy a share in an existing company and can help grow it far quicker and far bigger to achieve an increased overall value and therefore company owners can benefit in a variety of ways from such an arrangement.

We can also assist in raising capital for business development and expansion through a variety of financial institutions.

As a multi-award winning company many clients have benefitted from our considerable expertise and so when planning your exit strategy you know you are in safe hands when La Salle Corporate are there to guide your path.

Are you considering an exit strategy from your company?

Reasons to start the process now:

Entrepreneurial Relief – it is currently at its lowest level of 10% and is
likeky to increase dramatically
Buoyant market place - UK is currently a major hub for investment.
Only 2nd behind the US with $103 billion in acquisitions last year
Overseas investment – we are experiencing a rise in overseas interest
due to a desire to gain a foothold in the UK market
Part share sale – when selling your company, you do not have to sell
100% of the shares, there are options
Highest values – we are currently experiencing the highest prices companies have achieved for decades

Talk to us today for free advice with no obligation.

Call 0161 975 1521

Global packaging firm acquires Yorkshire automation specialist

Wed, 01 May 2019 16:02:26 GMT

La Salle can reveal that listed Coventry-headquartered Mpac Group have acquired North Yorkshire's Lambert Automation, specialists in automation technology to the medical and consumer healthcare markets.

Businesses acquired: Lambert Automation Limited

Activities: Founded in 1973 and incorporated in 2006, Lambert Engineering's turnkey approach encompasses the design, manufacture, assembly, installation, commissioning and maintenance. Using the latest robot technology, the company's subsidiary provides automated production systems, special purpose machinery and automation systems across a wide range of applications on a global scale. They employ around 160 staff.

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Purchaser: Mpac Group plc

Activities: Incorporated in 1912, The Company is an international specialist technology and services group, providing high performance instrumentation and machinery to the FMCG, healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. The company employ 350 staff globally and their headquarters are in Coventry, West Midlands.

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Additional info:

Tony Steels, chief executive of Mpac, said: "Lambert is a high-quality business with proven performance and long-standing embedded relationships with global blue-chip customers. Clear synergies exist in the market, technologies and supply chain which will provide our customers and potential new customers even greater confidence in the delivery of complete turnkey packaging solutions.

"Lambert entered 2019 with a significantly higher order book than the previous year and I am excited about the potential of the combined business and the momentum it brings to the fulfilment of our strategic plans."

Preston infrastructure group acquire electrical firm

Wed, 01 May 2019 14:23:21 GMT

La Salle can report that Preston-based Ipsum Group, backed by Aliter Capital, have made their second acquisition of 2019 with the takeover of Cambridgeshire-based Stormport, a specialist electrical services provider.

Businesses acquired: Stormport Professional Services Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 2009, the company has positioned itself as a total service provider for the electrical industry. With approximately 130 staff they have a wealth of experience in building, maintaining and replacing overhead, underground, and switchgear assets associated with Electrical Distribution Networks.
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Purchaser: Ipsum Group Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 2017, the company is a full service, specialist solutions provider to the Utilities and Infrastructure Markets. Based in Preston, Lancashire their 400 staff service the utilities, industrial, commercial, renewables, highways, and infrastructure sectors. This acquisition will see revenues increase from £54m to £65m.

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Additional info:

Greg Fernie, chief executive of Ipsum Group, said: "The acquisition of a market leading business like Stormport creates a very exciting business prospect for Ipsum Group to operate in the electricity distribution market.

"Across the group we have developed a range of innovative technology solutions that help digitise business which we now want to deliver to UK distribution network operators."

Steve Wright, co-founder and managing director of Stormport, added: "We were attracted to Ipsum because of the strength of the management team. It's quite evident that Ipsum is spearheaded by exceptionally entrepreneurial people with the track record, ambition and funding to allow Stormport, as part of a larger combined and growing group, to reach its full potential."

Planning consultant set for April deal completion

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 13:20:18 GMT

La Salle can reveal that Indigo Planning, one of the UK's leading planning consultancies, is set to be acquired by global engineering professional services firm WSP by the end of April 2019.

Businesses acquired: Indigo Planning Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 1986, the company has a HQ in London and offices across the UK including Leeds, Manchester and Dublin. They are primarily engaged in the provision of consultancy services for developmental land use and environmental planning.
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Purchaser: WSP

Activities: Globally, WSP employs approximately 48,000 people and in 2017 they increased their workforce by 5,000 from ten separate acquisitions. Their UK operation employs approximately 2,700 staff operating from a range of offices across the country, the company is one of the United Kingdom's major multi-disciplinary consultancies, with clients in both public and private sectors.

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Additional info:

Indigo Planning cheif executive Simon Neate commented"This move represents the next phase in Indigo Planning's evolution and will create new and bigger opportunities for both our colleagues and our clients in the UK and internationally.”

Mark Naysmith, UK chief executive at WSP, added: "With the collective expertise of WSP and Indigo’s planning specialists we will become one of the UK's largest planning consultancies, operating in the infrastructure, property, energy and environmental markets. Our newly combined skills will increase the strength and diversity of our service offer for our clients across the UK."

Bedding & curtain specialist acquired by Northern Ireland home textiles firm

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 10:37:57 GMT

La Salle can report that Manchester-based J Rosenthal & Son who specialise in bedding, curtains and cushions have been bought by home textile specialist Ulster Weavers after the secured a £15m funding package from HSBC UK.

Businesses acquired: J. Rosenthal And Son Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 1989, the company is engaged in the wholesale distribution of a range of household textile producst made from purchased materials. Their origins can be traced back to 1911 and they currently operate from a 62,000 sq ft warehouse facility in Salford, Greater Manchester.
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Purchaser: Ulster Weavers Limited

Activities: Founded in 1880 and incorporated in 2010, the company designs, produces and sells a range of homeware, kitchenware, bags and more. Their head office is based in Holywood, County Down.

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Additional info:

Kenneth Webb, chief executive of Ulster Weavers, said: "We've been hoping to expand our offering to include a bedding and curtains business for some time now, so when the acquisition of J Rosenthal & Son became an option we knew it was the right time to expand into the new market.

"Ulster Weavers and J Rosenthal & Son are very alike in what we do but we aren't blending the two businesses together. Both are very established in their areas and we’re looking forward to continuing to work out of Manchester with the existing team at J Rosenthal & Son."

Marty Colvin, relationship director at HSBC UK, added: "Ulster Weavers has always had a clear strategy for growth and we are very pleased to support this natural next step for the business. The acquisition will significantly benefit the expansion and development of the now enlarged business, offering new growth opportunities domestically and internationally."

M Group Services acquires telecom network specialist

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 09:25:44 GMT

La Salle can reveal that infrastructure giant M Group Services have acquired Bristol-headquartered Avonline Networks who employ 90 staff across offices in Cardiff and Northumberland.

Businesses acquired: Avonline Network Services Ltd

Activities: Incorporated in 2016, the company is principally involved in providing voice and data communication over worldwide telecom and internet networks. They have delivered £500million worth of projects and have installed services to over 4 million homes
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Purchaser: M Group Services Limited

Activities: Formerly known as Thor Bidco Ltd and incorporated in 2016, the company headquarters is located in Stevenage. The company delivers essential infrastructure services across Transport, Data, Utilities and Telecomms.

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Additional info:

Jim Arnold, M Group Services chief executive commented: "The next decade is set to bring the biggest expansion in UK telecom networks since the original BT copper build, driven by business and consumer demand for ultrafast broadband, public policy and government incentives."

"Given the scope of its service capability and its position at the forefront of these next-generation network expansion programmes, Avonline Networks is ideally positioned to grow in the telecoms market with the support of M Group Services."

"This is an exciting acquisition that further enhances the scope of essential infrastructure expertise within our telecom division and we are delighted to welcome Avonline Networks to M Group Services."

Avonline Networks director Richard Hale added: "From nationwide fibre networks to in-building infrastructure for multiple dwelling units, Avonline Networks has been at the forefront of the UK’s next-generation network build and installation programmes for over 35 years."

"This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter in our growth and, as a part of M Group Services, we are now ideally placed to benefit from the financial scale of the Group and the growth opportunities this will bring."

Progeny make double acquisition

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 12:27:19 GMT

La Salle can report that wealth management & legal advice firm Progeny Group, have acquired Buckinghamshire's Quest Financial Solutions and Sussex-based Juno Wealth Management, which sees the firm double their headcount in the process.

Businesses acquired: Quest Financial Solutions & Juno Wealth Management

Activities: Quest Financial Solutions founded by John Francis and Ian McKenary was incorporated in 2008. They offer a range of financial planning and wealth management solutions. Juno Wealth Management, founded by Derek & Tracey Evans was incorporated in 2010. They offer a range of financial planning services including life planning, cash flow planning, investments, and pension drawdown advice.
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Purchaser: The Progeny Group Limited

Activities: The company was incorporated in 2014 and is ultimately owned by Alderwood Overseas Ltd. Based in London, Leeds and Salisbury, they offer financial planning, private legal, corporate legal and asset management services.

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Additional info:

Neil Moles, managing director of Progeny Group, said: "We look forward to welcoming Quest Financial Solutions and Juno Wealth Management to the Progeny family, and adding their skills to our transparent full-service offering, providing in-house wealth and legal advisory services."

John Francis, managing director at Quest Financial Solutions, said: "Progeny's progress over the last two years has been hard to ignore, its track record of advising business owners, family wealth and individuals with complex wealth management needs aligns with our offering."

Tracey Evans, principal adviser and director of Juno Wealth Management, added: "Our existing service delivers lifetime financial planning and advice at the highest level of professionalism. Progeny has a similar long-term approach of looking to the future, identifying the trends in the way our clients are living and thereby helping them safeguard their wealth."

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If you are considering a company exit in the near future and want the best advice from a dedicated 'sell-side' team then get in touch today. We know the active buyers and investors in your sector...

Irish timber supplier acquired by Latham plc

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 10:17:17 GMT

La Salle can reveal that Abbey Woods, Irelands official supplier of Accoya wood, has been bought buy James Latham plc, whose headquarters are in Hemel Hempstead

Business acquired: Abbey Woods

Activities: The Irish company, founded in 1983, has bases in Cork and Dublin. They specialise in the supply of Accoya, Hardwood and Softwood Timber, Hardwood Decking, Composite Decking, Claddings, Worktops and Wood Components for use in a variety of market segments, from Building and Construction to Kitchen, Furniture and Joinery Manufacturers.

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Purchaser: James Latham plc

Activities: The company was incorporated in 1900, yet their history dates back to 1757 when the first James Latham began importing hardwoods into Liverpool. Since then, the company has developed into a leading distributor of a wide-range of wood-based panel products. The company listed on the London Stock Exchange in December 2004.

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Additional info:

Nick Latham, chairman of James Latham, said: "We are delighted to have acquired Abbey Woods which is our first acquisition outside of the UK.

"There are strong synergies between the two companies and it complements our existing business in Ireland that is currently serviced from our Leeds depot. I look forward to working with the Abbey Woods team."

Overcoming adversity in business

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 13:46:38 GMT

At the time of writing this, most of the UK is covered under a blanket of snow with more of the white stuff expected to follow in the coming days.

Many employees will have struggled with the commute to the office, likewise, employers are pulling their hair out trying to maintain working levels, fulfil orders and deliver support to customers.

The annual UK snow disruption is just one of the many adversities business owners has to overcome and with uncertain economic times ahead, there are plenty more fresh challenges on the horizon.

With this in mind, now is a good a time as any to consider all your options moving forward. La Salle are strategically positioned to offer an award winning service and advice for the many exit options available to you. Give us a call on 0161 975 1521 and we'll be happy to talk you through the options and arrange a free private consultation.

In the meantime, we've compiled a handy list of tips, reminders and some quotes from entrepreneurs which should prove useful in helping businesses overcome adversities whether now or in the future.

Excerpt from SmarterWorkingHub :

1: Teach employees how to overcome obstacles and challenges by serving as an example. Talk to them regularly about the company's recent professional struggles and successes. Opening up and allowing employees to witness your struggles and successes can help them understand that challenges and obstacles confront individuals at all levels of the organisation. Focus on how you overcame the difficulties to reach your goals to help motivate and encourage each employee.

2: Ask employees to challenge what they know. Encourage employees to analyse their work habits and constantly challenge themselves to find alternative work methods. Exploring new ideas and allowing employees to fail helps remove the stigma related to failure. This encourages persistence and perseverance in lieu of feelings related to defeat and failure.

3: Meet with employees to set goals related to job performance and future career objectives. Set achievable yet challenging goals as they pertain to both current job performance and future career aspirations. Goals that challenge employees along the path to fulfilling career objectives will provide them with an opportunity to tackle adversity in the short-term while working toward a long-term goal.

4: Break challenging tasks into manageable chunks. Completing tasks in this manner allows employees to tackle adversity head-on while making progress on the task at hand. This can help build confidence and propel employees to follow through on difficult or challenging tasks.

5: reate an environment of optimism. Encourage employees to embrace an optimistic outlook in all areas of their lives. An optimistic attitude motivates employees to keep working toward goals and pushes them to find ways to solve problems instead of complaining and losing hope.
Encourage employees to ask for help if they find themselves struggling and make help available in the form of additional training, coaching or mentoring.

6: Stay clear of stress-inducing situations, if possible. Help employees identify stressors related to the job and teach them how to manage stressful situations and work around stress-inducing behavior. When employees can approach adversity in a calm and focused manner, tasks become manageable and less problematic.

Excerpt from Smallbusiness.chron.com :

1: Maintain a positive attitude. No matter what has happened or is going to happen, it isn’t likely to be the end of the world. There is always light at the end of the tunnel. Choosing to not let negative thoughts rule your life will have a huge impact on your ability to move forward and view your future with optimism and hope.

2: Maintaining composure. It is important that even if you feel like panicking, that you don’t. Take a deep breath and remain calm. The night is always followed by a new day and with that new opportunity. Panicking and believing the world is over is going to help no one.

3: Remember the bigger picture. It is always important to remember the bigger picture of what you are trying to achieve as a business, or what you are trying to achieve doing a specific task. Not getting bogged down in the detail and taking a step back can be sometimes all it needs to re-focus and remember why you are doing what you are doing.

4: Don’t be ashamed to ask for help. A battle is never won alone. Remember there is no shame in asking for help or advice. Use the experience and skills of others who have gone through similar experiences. Also use the knowledge of experts in areas you may not understand. Reaching out to those who are skilled and highly supportive can be sometimes all that is needed when it comes to a win or lose situation.

5: Try again and then again. If you fall of the horse, you are supposed to jump straight back on. A simple message, yet so important. Don’t quit if times get tough, continue to do all you can, learn from your mistakes and bend and adapt at that pivot point and try something new to come back stronger than ever.

6: Always remain humble. Being humble is not only a great quality, it will make people warm to you and will make you a better business person. Unwarranted pride is a common reason for business challenges lasting far longer than necessary. Don’t be stubborn; remember that what is right for the business is what should always be at the forefront of your mind.

Overcoming adversity, quotes from entrepreneurs - excerpt from Huffington Post :

“My typical approach when faced with adversity is to look at every problem as having a solution... some solutions more palatable than others of course. These days there are resources everywhere to search for information and assistance. Having a good network is always a great idea as it is often through ones network that the solution presents itself. “ — Maureen Mulligan, Elan Learning Institute

“Often, the reason we don’t overcome a challenge is because we don’t know what to do and hence we don’t try anything. For me, I focus on trying something, anything and learning from that experience. Often the only way to overcome a challenge is to fail your way towards the right outcome. We need to keep changing our approach until we get what we want.” — Niro Thambipillay, Personal Website

“I try and reflect on past successes and remember that they weren’t flukes. Then I push myself to get out there and spend lots of time with existing and recent clients, spend more time and add more value on current work, to reinforce all the good work I’ve done rather than give into fear about the one thing that’s going wrong.” — Nancy Halpern, KNH Associates

“I see setbacks, even failures as part of the growth and development process. Because we set audacious goals which will only be fulfilled through bold actions, now we can accept an occasional setback as an unintended consequence, not a life, or death situation. The key difference is our mindset — it’s only a mistake if we don’t learn from it.” — Kevin Monroe, Cairnway

“My default philosophy in life and business is one of optimism, the glass half full approach. So when adversity strikes the first thing I always ask myself is ‘what’s the worst thing that could possibly happen in this situation?’ And then I run through the worst case scenarios, ‘we could lose the deal... my company’s brand could suffer... my business could go under.’  I then ask myself how likely it is one of these doomsday scenarios might realistically occur and what steps are available to me to mitigate the situation? This approach allows me to defuse the fears or doubt I’m experiencing and quickly get focused on the steps needed to address the issue. “ — Cian Mcloughlin, Trinity Perspectives

If you have any personal advice or stories about overcoming adversity within the workplace, be sure to let us know in the comments below!

La Salle seal the deal as Lonsdale acquires majority stake in Elite Electronic Systems

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 26 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle Corporate have the pleasure in announcing that our client; Elite Electronic Systems , a market leading provider of electronic manufacturing systems, has completed a deal which sees private equity firm Lonsdale Capital Partners take a majority stake in the firm.

Generating revenue of over £22m, Jonathan Balfour and Neville Hale have grown Elite to service a broad range of sectors including medical devices, secure communications, power generation and wearable technology. It manufactures highly-specialised products for its customers, including defibrillators, secure telecom systems used by government bodies, and athlete tracking devices used by leading sports teams including Barcelona FC and a number of NFL teams. Established in 1986, Elite is headquartered in Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh in Northern Ireland, and employs approx. 215 people.

Jonathan and Neville, who acquired the business from Jonathan’s father in 2015, instructed La Salle to assist with their exit strategy plans.

La Salle Corporate Sales Director Matt Dillon and his team identified a number of potential acquirers who showed great interest in Elite. During the process, it became evident that Lonsdale Capital Partners were the preferred investor. Elite had demonstrated excellent growth in a niche market along with an established management team driving the company forward – both key factors that Lonsdale were seeking for their next investment opportunity.

The synergy between the two companies was clear and subsequent negotiations were conducted smoothly towards a satisfactory conclusion for all parties.

Jonathan Balfour, Managing Director of Elite, said:

“I would like to thank Matt for his hard work throughout the process to achieve this result. He helped us through every step of the way explaining the requirements of the various parts of the process throughout. With his experience he was able to advise where potential issues could be avoided; for example with the need for excellent legal and accounting support. I would highly recommend Matt to anyone thinking of pursuing a similar strategy. We will remain good friends after the process".

“Elite offers highly-specialised manufacturing services for customers who depend upon first class service and reliability. We have always prioritised investment in new technologies and state of the art equipment to ensure that we are at forefront when it comes to enhancing manufacturing capabilities and meeting customer demands. This investment from Lonsdale gives us the additional firepower to take the business to the next level, as well as expand our capabilities in new industries and grow our customer base in both the UK and overseas.”

Andrew Chetwood, Director at Lonsdale Capital Partners, said:

“ Since 1986, Elite has successfully grown into a sophisticated electronic contract manufacturer delivering excellent quality services to a diversified customer base. Elite exemplifies the three key qualities that Lonsdale looks for in its investments: a company operating in a fast-growing niche; a strong market position; and a great management team. We are very excited by the opportunity to work with both Jonathan and Neville as the Company enters its next phase of growth.”

Matt Dillon, who led the La Salle team acting on behalf of Elite, added…

“It was a pleasure working with Jonathan & Neville from the outset. They are both true gentlemen and we were all delighted with the outcome. Lonsdale are the ideal partner for Elite and they were a delight to work with during the process. I wish them all the very best with the future of Elite.”

Read more about this deal in the following online articles:

BBC News online https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-44771613

Unquote (subscription required) https://www.unquote.com/uk/official-record/3010797/lonsdale-acquires-elite-electronic-services

Alt Assets https://www.altassets.net/private-equity-news/by-news-type/deal-news/fc-barcelona-nfl-athlete-tracking-device-maker-elite-gets-lonsdale-capital-partners-backing.html

Real Deals https://realdeals.eu.com/news/2018/07/11/lonsdale-elite-electronic-services/

Europe Breaking News https://www.europebreakingnews.net/2018/07/equity-firm-invests-in-fermanagh-company/

Click Here to contact La Salle Corporate today regarding your company exit strategy options

La Salle complete multi-million pound deal for Warrington-based logistics client

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 22 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle Corporate take great pleasure today in announcing the sale of our clients company 'Mark Thompson Transport Limited' to UK haulage and warehouse experts Kinaxia Logistics.

Mark Thompson, who established the Warrington-based logistics business back in 1989, instructed La Salle to find a buyer for his company in October 2016. He had grown the business as a sole director from a single van to over 180 trucks with a healthy £20m annual turnover.

The time was right to take the company to the next level, enter La Salle Corporate Sales Director, Matt Dillon.

Matt and the La Salle team worked closely with Mark, tailoring a viable exit-strategy and making the necessary, discreet approaches to potential purchasers.

Following a particular successful approach, it soon became clear to Macclesfield-headquartered Kinaxia Logistics that this was an attractive proposal, they confirmed their strong interest and the negotiation process began.

Again, the La Salle team, headed by Matt, together with Mark Thompson and with the assistance of Leeds-based solicitors Squire Patton Boggs, all worked closely to get the deal over the line, a deal that benefitted all parties in the process.

Speaking after completion, Matt Dillon commented:

"I am delighted to have helped Mark Thompson complete the sale of his company.

Starting 30 years ago with a single van to a company with over 180 trucks, with no other shareholders supporting him, is a testament to Mark.

A superb achievement. It has been a pleasure working with Mark and after the journey we have been on, I would class him as a friend rather than a client.

I would like to thank my sales team at La Salle and Squire Patton Boggs for their assistance, it was a team effort."

La Salle Corporate would like to wish all parties involved in the deal, and especially Mark Thompson, all the very best for the future.

You can read more about the deal in the following articles:

MotorTransport.co.uk

InsiderMedia

Salford-based Morson Group acquire Waldeck

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 12:32:13 GMT

La Salle can report that the Morson Group - who provide a unique blend of recruitment agency and design consultancy have acquired Peterborough-headquartered Waldeck who provide a technical and risk management consultancy service.

Business acquired: Waldeck

Activities: The company are a technology focused, multi disciplinary engineering, technical and risk management consultancy, supporting the public sector, private sector and global blue-chip companies with heavy infrastructure, industrial and major building projects.

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Purchaser: Morson Group Limited

Activities: Established in 1969, the company has registered offices in Salford. In addition to their recruitment division, they also provide leading engineering and design solutions to major capital projects using the latest technology and systems. They also conduct a cyber security division who supply market leading technology to help protect businesses against internal and external cyber threats.

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Additional info:

Ged Mason, chief executive of Morson Group, said: "We are delighted that the team at Waldeck are joining the Morson family and look forward to a prosperous and exciting future together.

"Waldeck has a strong brand and reputation within the UK, and specialist expertise in the engineering, technologies, construction and property markets. The addition of Waldeck to our portfolio means we are well placed to service the future growth expected in these sectors while consolidating our market leading position."

Paul Waldeck, founder of the acquired business, added: "Having founded Waldeck more than 20 years ago, it was imperative for me to find a partner whose values and cultures matched our own. This is an exceptionally exciting time for everyone at Waldeck and our team is looking forward to joining the Morson Group."

Surveillance tech company snapped up by Halma

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 11:59:33 GMT

La Salle can announce that Halma plc - who operate a range of technology businesses in the safety, medical and environmental sectors have acquired Navtech Radar, who produce innovative commercial radar solutions used in highway monitoring and security surveillance.

Business acquired: Navtech Radar Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 1999, the company design and manufacture commercial millimetre wave radar for three main market ares including: Wide Area Security Solutions and Intruder Detection, Highways Monitoring and Incident Detection and Industrial Sensing for Collision Avoidance and Automation. Their offices are based in Wantage, Oxfordshire.

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Purchaser: Halma plc

Activities: Incorporated in 1894, the company operate within 3 sectors:
Infrastructure Sensors - detecting hazards, and protecting people and property in buildings
Health and Analysis - improving public and personal health; protecting the environment
Industrial Safety - protecting property and people at work
Their UK offices are based in Buckinghamshire.

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Additional info:

Andrew Williams, Halma's chief executive, said: "Navtech is an exciting addition to our infrastructure safety business and builds on our existing strengths in sensing vehicles, people and assets for safety and control applications.

"It has valuable IP in radar-based hardware and software solutions and also adds a new presence in the fast growing highway and critical infrastructure safety market niches.

"As well as adding these new capabilities to the group, I am confident that Navtech will benefit from all of Halma's strategic growth enablers, including international expansion and digital growth, to accelerate and sustain growth in the future."

Halma is based in Amersham while Navtech Radar is headquartered in Wantage.

Global nutrition group acquire Slimfast brand

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 09:34:38 GMT

La Salle can reveal that Kilkenny-headquarted Glanbia, who produce a wide range of nutritional products have acquired the Slimfast brand which was previously owned by KSF Holdings LLP and HNS Intermediate Corporation respectively.

Business acquired: Slimfast (brand)

Activities: Founded in 1977 with headquarters in Florida, USA - the weight-loss brand generates net sales of $212m. They have a UK base in Ascot, Berkshire

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Purchaser: Glanbia

Activities: Glanbia employ over 6,600 people across 32 countries and their products are sold or distributed in over 130 countries with revenue €2.4billion. They take pure and clean ingredients including milk, whey and grans and produce high-quality nutritional ingredients and branded consumer products.

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Additional info:

Commenting on the Transaction, Siobhán Talbot, Group Managing Director of Glanbia said:

“I am pleased to announce that we have agreed to acquire SlimFast, a leading consumer brand in the $8 billion weight management nutrition market, an adjacency to the Glanbia Performance Nutrition brand portfolio. SlimFast is an established and enduring brand and, along with nutritional supplements brands “Healthy Delights” and “Nu-Therapy”, complements our existing portfolio targeting lifestyle consumers. It plays to global consumer trends focused on convenient formats and snacking. The transaction is in line with our strategic ambition to extend the reach of our Glanbia Performance Nutrition portfolio to related consumer needs.”

La Salle amongst the awards again...

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 16:25:47 GMT

Receiving recognition for your hard work from peers within the industry is a fantastic achievement, and 2018 sees La Salle amongst the nominees again for another trio of upcoming awards.

Firstly, La Salle partner Matt Dillon was shortlisted for "Young Dealmaker of the Year 2018" by Insider Media, Matt hopes to add this to his previous Dealmaker of the Year awards from 2016 & 2017.

Following this, and based on our advisory role in brokering the deal between Elite Electronic Systems and L onsdale Capital Partners, La Salle are nominated for "Deal Maker of the Year" by Finance Monthly who state: " This award celebrates the achievements of professionals operating within M&A and who are at the very top of their game ".

To end on a high, we are delighted to announce La Salle have been awarded "Best M&A Consultancy 2018 - North West England" in the Finance Awards 2018 by the judging panel at Wealth & Finance magazine. Matt Dillon collected the award on behalf of La Salle and is delighted to share this achievement with the whole team who have worked tirelessly over the past 12 months.

Keep an eye out for further announcements in the coming weeks!

Cleaning chemicals company snaps up counterpart

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:41:48 GMT

La Salle can report that Derbyshire-based cleaning products manufacturer Clover Chemicals who boast a range of 200+ products has been acquired by Bradford-headquartered chemical manufacturer Christeyns.

Business acquired: Clover Chemicals Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 1990, the company produce 'effective cleaning chemicals' with a primary focus on floorcare, washroom and skincare products. They are best known for their laundry and food & beverage divisions that manufacture detergents, disinfectants and equipment.

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Purchaser: Christeyns UK Ltd

Activities: Established in 1965, the company manufactures and distributes formulated chemical products including concrete admixtures, laundry products, industrial soaps and consumer products.

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Additional info:

Alain Bostoen, Christeyns chief executive, said: "The acquisition of Clover Chemicals is a great addition to the Christeyns family. The people, expertise and quality of products produced by Clover make them a perfect fit for our business and we look forward to growing together with them."

Des Eustace, managing director of Clover, added: "We are excited to be joining such an ambitious group. Christeyns' core values of Family, Expertise, Passion and Continuous Improvement are an ideal fit for the future of the Clover business and we look forward to the exciting journey ahead as part of this deeply committed organisation."

Care group acquired by infrastructure investment firm

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:00:58 GMT

La Salle can reveal that Bracknell-based Choice Care Group, a provider of living & support services to individuals with learning disabilities, has been sold by Caledonian Investments to iCON Infrastructure, an independent infrastructure investment group with UK offices in London.

Business acquired: Choice Care Group Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 2003, the group was established to provide learning disability support services for individuals who require a safe, supportive and therapeutic living environment, which also provides opportunities to learn and self-develop.

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Purchaser: Icon Infrastructure LLP

Activities: Established in 2011, the company's business activities include the provision of construction services, including new work, additions, alterations, remodelling, and repair of residential buildings other than single-family houses. It is also involved in the construction of heavy projects and construction of other civil engineering projects.
They have over $2.5billion in assets under management.

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Additional info:

Duncan Johnson, Caledonia's head of unquoted investments, said: "Caledonia's unquoted strategy is to invest in leading businesses with quality management teams, seeking long-term capital.

"We are delighted with how Choice has grown under our ownership, enabling it to provide its high quality residential services to a third more patients than five years ago, and we congratulate Edwina and her team for their stewardship of the business during that time. We wish them and the company every success under their new ownership."

Edwina Johnston, chief executive at Choice added: "Caledonia has been a very supportive and involved financial partner over the past five years, which has enabled us both to develop new homes and improve the quality of our existing services."

Health group acquires sugar-free mint & gum brand

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 13:34:47 GMT

La Salle can reveal that Newcastle-under-Lyme-based Health Made Easy (HME) - the company behind wholesaler 'Tree of Life' and vitamin brand 'Higher Nature' have acquired the Peppersmith brand.

Business acquired: Peppersmith (Freshly Cut Ltd)

Activities: Incorporated in 2009, founders Mike Stevens and Dan Shrimpton first met whilst working at Innocent drinks. They created and grew the Peppersmith brand (100% xylitol mints and gums) to achieve over 10,000,000 pack sales by 2017, which are currently sold nationwide in Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Holland & Barrett and thousands of health and whole-food retailers.

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Purchaser: Health Made Easy Limited

Activities: Established in 2015, the group are focused around the health food and wellbeing market. Their brands include Tree of Life and Higher Nature and reports in June 2018 suggest they have offered to buy online wholesaler The Health Store.

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Additional info:

John Weaver, director of HME, said: "Peppersmith presents an excellent opportunity to take on a brand that is innovative, highly ethical and clean.

"As the sugar free market continues to grow, we will be investing in the brand and using our resources to build Peppersmith’s momentum in the health and wholefood and grocery channels.

"This is in line with Health Made Easy’s broader vision that by building a family with some of the best players in their fields, the group can create a stronger presence in health and wellbeing; one of the fastest growing categories in British grocery."

Mike Stevens, who will stay on as the managing director of the Peppersmith business, added: "This is great news for the company as it gives the brand more resources, more knowledge and more access to retailers large and small who are invested in growing a healthier product range.

"The whole team is excited about taking what we do to the next level which will include more products, more marketing and a significant step up in sales."

Carver Group acquires Bristol specialist chiller firm

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 13:12:59 GMT

La Salle can announce that Walsall-headquartered Carver Group, a family-owned business who manage a portfolio of manufacturing businesses, have acquired Bristol-based CoolTherm who provide a range of specialised air conditioning and cooling solutions.

Business acquired: Cool-Therm (UK) Ltd

Activities: Incorporated in 1992, the company currently employs more than 60 people and offers a range of services including air conditioning - supply and installation, a full design, service & maintenance, and chiller solutions including the Turbomiser™ brand.
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Purchaser: Carver Group Ltd

Activities: Incorporate in 1952, the company is a UK-based holding firm for a group engaged in the manufacture of caravan mover, engineering clamping, workholding devices, gas and electric heating and ventilation devices, electrical and automotive products and air curtains, as well as installation services. It has interest in six operating companies. Brands/businesses include Biddle, Thermoscreens, Applied Comfort, CoolTherm, Carver Clamps and Widney Leisure.

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Additional info:

Aidan Killeen, Carver Group chief executive, said: "The acquisition of CoolTherm clearly demonstrates our intention to create a Group offering high quality bespoke products and services to all our customers.

"We see the business as remaining a separate organisation from our current manufacturing businesses but believe that, after five years of rapid growth for the group, it will offer us the opportunity to grow in other directions, both nationally and internationally, and will form a key part of our new five-year plan for expansion.

"The CoolTherm ethos is an excellent fit for the Carver Group, being privately owned and focused on delivering exceptional customer service, and we are pleased that the majority of directors will be continuing with the business.

"The skillsets available at CoolTherm, coupled with the Carver Group’s desire to grow and meet the needs of national and international businesses, mean this acquisition will deliver real synergy for us."

Birmingham City Centre leisure complex changes hands for £49.6m

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 12:57:58 GMT

La Salle can reveal that Birmingham's Broadway Plaza leisure complex has been acquired by LGIM Real Assets from Aviva Investors in a deal totalling £49.6m.

Business acquired: Broadway Plaza

Activities: The site comprises 280,000sq ft of leisure & retail space. Recent additions include a new Odeon Luke cinema and Hollywood Bowl alongside Travelodge, Nuffield Health, Rock Up and casino. The development site generates around £3.5m each year.

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Purchaser: LGIM Real Assets

Activities: LGIM is the investment arm of Legal & General Group, a FTSE 100 company. They are one of the Europe's largest asset managers and a major global investor, with assets under management of £984.8billion.

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Additional info:

Andrew Ferguson, senior fund manager of Legal & General, said: "This is a great addition to the fund, presenting an opportunity to improve a dominant edge of city leisure scheme with strong anchor tenants.

"The leisure sector continues to grow with more innovative concepts emerging.

"Our dedicated leisure fund has grown to over £600m following this acquisition and is continuing to grow with exciting new developments in the pipeline.

"This scheme presents an opportunity for us as specialist leisure owners to continue to evolve the leisure offering in order to achieve the best results for our investors."

Mark Smith of KLM Retail added: "The scheme has seen significant improvements in the past 18 months

and with the opening of the Odeon Luxe and new Hollywood Bowl, the scheme is the dominant leisure offer in Birmingham city centre with further potential to move forward."

Matt Dillon wins 'Deal Maker Of The Year' award for La Salle

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 26 Jun 2018 16:03:56 GMT

In the world of Corporate Sales there is no greater accolade or recommendation than being voted Deal Maker of the Year. The highly respected publication 'Finance Monthly' have awarded La Salle Sales Director Matt Dillon this coveted prize for his achievements in 2016/2017.

Indeed, 2016 has been an incredible year for the La Salle team as a whole and our experience of both the International market, place as well as that of the UK, has enabled us to bring together a wide ranging cross section of buyers from a global market place. This is a testament to the skill, expertise and knowledge that our team bring to our corporate clients.

Matt Dillon said ' I am naturally delighted to receive this award. 2016 has been an exceptional year for the company, but I have to say that what we do is very much a team effort and so I must dedicate this award to the highly experienced team around me. Together we strive to provide our clients with the very best advice possible and pride ourselves on being able to achieve the best possible price on their behalf from a global market place'.

'Deal Of The Year' award also won by La Salle

To cap an incredible 2016, La Salle have also won 'Deal Of The Year' a presented by 'Insider' magazine. This equally prestigious award commends the exceptional role that La Salle played in the sale of a £16 million Yorkshire based double glazing manufacturer

This is just one of the many deals completed by La Salle during 2016 and we are delighted that we have been able to deliver the hopes and aspirations to so many clients this year.

2017 is already looking to dwarf 2016 with our pipeline deals being at a record high and the demand for successful UK companies at a premium. With Brexit fast approaching and the general uncertainty of world politics and the world economy there has never been a better time to sell and achieve the best possible price.

Talk to us today for FREE advice and guidance. You know you are in experienced hands when we hold the coveted awards of 'Deal Maker Of The Year' as well as 'Deal Of The Year'. You too can be part of our success.

William Jackson Food Group acquire fine ingredients supplier

Fri, 22 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle can reveal that William Jackson Food Group, the company behind Aunt Bessie's and The Food Doctor brands, ha acquired Nelson-headquartered Wellocks, whose customers include a number of Michelin-star restaurants and high-profile sporting venues.

Business acquired: Wellocks

Activities: Incorporated in 2001, the company is primarily engaged in the wholesale trade of a wide range of fruit and vegetables and boasts a 470 strong workforce.

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Purchaser: William Jackson Food Group Limited

Activities: The company has been trading for a number of years, dating back as far 1851. They supply leading supermarkets, food service businesses and food manufacturers nation-wide and abroad with bread and freshly prepared salad and vegetables. Other brands in the group include Aunt Bessie's, Abel & Cole, The Food Doctor, Jackson's Yorkshire Champion Bread and MyFresh.

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Additional info:

William Jackson Food Group chief executive Norman Soutar said:

"We are a sixth generation family business and are delighted to be welcoming Wellocks, a business we have admired for many years, to the family."

"We've been looking to enter the fast-growing premium segment of the foodservice channel and believe Wellocks, which has itself enjoyed recent growth, has really exciting potential for the future with its great customers and really innovative suppliers. We're really looking forward to helping Wellocks grow even further into the future."

"The group remains very focused on having a portfolio of great food businesses and this is an important acquisition for us, replacing the Wigan salad processing business we sold to Agrial a year ago."

GoCompare acquire energy specialist

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle can announce that Newport-based GoCompare has acquired Alloa-headquarted energy pricecomparison company Energylinx - who havecommercial relationships with 69 domestic and 40 business suppliers.

Business acquired: Energylinx

Activities: Incorporated in 2003, the company has worked independently to become the largest specialist domestic energy price comparison company in the UK.

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Purchaser: GoCompare

Activities:Established tin 2006, the company has grown to become one of the UK's leading price comparison companies helping clients compare and buy a wide variety of products and services including insurance, energy and broadband packages.

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Additional info:

Matthew Crummack, chief executive of GoCompare, said:

'We are pleased to announce this acquisition, which marks yet another significant milestone for the Group as we continue to build services that work for both our customers and partners.

'Energylinx has an excellent reputation in the industry among energy suppliers and those who use its white-label services, and we will leverage our strong brand, tech and product capabilities to expand its reach and impact to help save even more people time and money.'

'I am looking forward to welcoming Ken and the rest of the Energylinx team to the Group, and to working together to reduce hassle in the energy switching market.'

Ken Geddes, chief executive of Energylinx, added:

'I'm proud of what we've achieved at Energylinx in the 15 years since we launched. During that time, the energy market has gone through significant changes, and today consumers are faced with more choice than ever before.

'GoCompare has been a trailblazer in the use of technology to simplify choices and help people save time and money, and I'm excited to be working with them to help even more people switch to better energy deals.'

Nestle Waters takes majority stake in Princes Gate

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle can disclose that Nestle Waters, the company behind the Buxton Mineral Water and Nestle Pure Lifebrands has acquired a majority stake in Pembrokeshire-based Princes Gate Spring Water Ltd.

Business acquired: Prince Gate Spring Water Ltd

Activities: Incorporated in 2001, the company is engaged in the bottling and wholesale distribution of spring water in various sizes; including 330ml screw and sports cap, 500ml screw and sports caps, 750ml sports cap and 1.5litre screw caps.

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Purchaser: Nestle Waters UK Limited

Activities:Incorporated in 1989, the company provides bottled water and water coolers to homes and businesses and in ten different countries across Europe. Brands include Vittel, Perrier, San Pellegrino and Nestle Aquarel.

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Additional info:

David Jones and Glyn Jones, founders of Princes Gate Spring Water, said:

'We started this business 27 years ago as a family and have built this business enjoying loyal relationships with our customers and employees. I am delighted we have found the perfect company to help supercharge our business.'

'With the growth opportunities that lie ahead, we believe we have found the best partner in Nestlé Waters to help propel the business forwards for the future.'

Michel Beneventi, managing director of Nestle Waters UK, said:

'I am pleased to welcome Princes Gate to the Nestle Waters family.'

'This company has grown very successfully over the past 27 years and shares many of the same qualities and values as our existing Waters business.'

'In the UK, consumers are increasingly choosing healthier hydration options and consequently the demand for high quality spring and mineral water continues to go up.'

'This acquisition reinforces our position in the UK and will allow us to effectively respond to customer demands and consumer expectations.'

Scottish quarry acquired by Breedon Northern

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle can report that following theacquisition of Staff Concrete by Breedon Southern in April 2018, Breedon Northern - another subsidiary of the Breedon Group, has acquired Blinkbonny Quarry (Borders) in Scotland.

Business acquired: Blinkbonny Quarry (Borders) Limted

Activities: Incorporated in 2000, the Kelso-based company offer a range of products including ready-mix concrete, aggregates and kiwi-mix concrete.

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Purchaser: Breedon Northern Limited

Activities:Incorporated in 1993, the subsidiary of the Breedon Group is based in Dundee and formerly known as Breedon Aggregates Scotland Ltd. The company operate in excess of 18 queries, 11 asphalt plants and 22 ready-mixed concrete plants.

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Additional info:

Breedon Northern managing director Alan Mackenzie said:

'Blinkbonny gives us a great opportunity to establish a presence in the Scottish Borders, through a business with long-term mineral reserves and resources.'

'It is well invested, with modern plant and machinery, and has established an excellent reputation for quality and service among its customers in the surrounding area.'

Tradebe acquires Avanti Environmental

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle can reveal that Marlow-based Tradebe - one of the UKs leading waste & recycling firms has acquired Merseyside-headquartered Avanti Environmental from Stericycle Inc.

Business acquired: Avanti Environmental Group Ltd

Activities: Formerly known as Neston Tank Cleaners Limited and incorporated in 1997, the company is one of the UK's largest independent environmental management firms and employs over 140 people.

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Purchaser: Tradebe Environmental Services Limited

Activities:Founded in 1983 and incorporated in 1999, the company offers environmental services, including hazardous waste management, solvent recycling, clinical waste, minerals recycling, norm, low level radioactive waste management, technical assessment, total waste management, packaged solvent sales, and waste oil services. This acquisition is their second of 2018 as the company acquired UK laboratory waste disposal services business Labwaste.

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Additional info:

Brian Mulholland, treatment, incineration and recovery director at Tradebe, said:

'This is an important acquisition for Tradebe as the two companies are complementary.'

'The deal will accelerate growth of all our UK operations and will significantly increase Tradebe's ever-growing waste transfer network. Avanti is a very attractive acquisition due to the high calibre of employees, capabilities and the strong synergies to be gained from this acquisition.'

Rob Molenaar, UK chief executive of Tradebe UK, added:

'The combination of Tradebe, Labwaste and Avanti will provide for a strong platform capable of servicing and meeting the changing demands of our customers. The companies are aligned in terms of service operations, capabilities and geographical reach.'

'This partnership will bring together some of the most technically minded, innovative people in the UK's waste industry.'

2018 - First Quarter Review

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 17 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Internally, 2018 has brought about a busy period of expansion for La Salle, demonstrated by the opening of our second Irish office in Belfast.

We have witnessed an appetite in the market for deals within the region with no signs of letting up as we move further into the year.

In addition, we have seen positive activity first-hand within the manufacturing and health sectors along with companies demonstrating steady growth.

Furthermore, there has been a rise in interest from many PE firms who clearly aren’t letting the potential economic uncertainties on the horizon put them off.

Looking at the broader M&A picture, this is also evident as the UK trails only the US and China in terms of deal value and volume of deals, and we are only behind the US in terms of targeted inbound acquisitions with $103 billion spent last year.

Again, growth has been back on the menu, crossing the $927 billion value mark in the first quarter is unprecedented, and it shows the appetite of businesses to acquire in order to stay ahead of competitors.

Many companies have demonstrated no let up in their willingness to spend in order to stay ahead and this is most evident within the technology, media and telecoms, consumer business, real estate, and energy and resources sectors with deal value posted at more than $2 trillion in combined deals worldwide.

To summarise, the current UK market is extremely buoyant. Outside investors are looking to the UK, PE firms are active in the market (sitting on a record $1 trillion of investor funds). Add to this, the urgency from companies to spend as they look to keep their noses in front of competitors and secure their long-term future ahead of any changes that Brexit and the global economic environment may bring.

For any company unsure of where they sit in the market, La Salle are on hand to provide both exit-strategy advice and guidance with growth through acquisition.

Regards,

Mark Whiteside
Head of Marketing
La Salle Corporate

North West visual branding specialist acquired by 3A Group

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 03 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle can announce that Cheadle-based Cestrian -producers of large-format, immersive visual brandingproducts have been acquired by 3A Group, owners of Arian, one ofEurope's largest digital and screen print service providers.

Business acquired: Cestrian Imaging Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 2005, the company, formerly known as Fleetness 400 Limited, is engaged in the provision of digital printing services. The company's services include PVC banner and textile printing for Retail PoS; design, create, engineer and produce brand graphics: and design and produce outdoor advertising solutions. Clients include BT, O2 and the Manchester United Foundation.

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Purchaser: 3A GroupBeteiligung GMBH

Activities:The 3A Group, with headquarters in Gleisdorf, Austria can now add Cestrian to its portfolio of companies including Arian, Well Linked and A Real.
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Additional info:

Simon Summers, who will be taking over as managing director of Cestrian, said:

'This merger brings together more than 60 years of industry experience and, over the coming weeks and months, we will be working hard to ensure all current business is settled in as seamlessly as possible and demonstrating to all our client partners the benefits to them this investment will bring.'

Stephan Kollegger, chief executive of Arian, added:

'Arian has a wonderful reputation across Europe and further afield for its technology and investment-led partnership with clients. We believe Cestrian to be a great fit for our UK ambitions.'

'It will bring huge opportunities for existing clients and something new and exciting for all brands and retailers.'

Cloud infrastructure company acquired by Claranet

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 03 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle are pleased to reveal that Union Solutions, a managed IT services provider who operate from offices in Surrey and Kent, has been acquired by London-headquartered, Claranet whose revenue is in excess of £325m.

Business acquired: Union Solutions Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 2006, the company offer a range of infrastructure transformation and managed IT cloud-based services to clients including Next, Sainsbury's, Investec and Rightmove.

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Purchaser: Claranet Group Limited

Activities:Founded in 1996, the company is one of Europe's leading managed IT services providers. Offering business hosting, networks and communication services, they have over 6,500 customers and 1,800 employees based in 24 offices across Europe and Brazil.

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Additional info:

Michel Robert, managing director of Claranet UK, said:

'Union has the right depth of experience and capability for us in the design and implementation of mission critical infrastructure, with emphasis on data storage and security.

'[It] has developed strong customer relationships in the legal, financial services, and retail verticals which will further enhance our capabilities in these important sectors.'

Jason Rabbetts, founder and director at Union Solutions, added:

'In today's rapidly-changing hybrid multi-cloud world, specialism in a wide spectrum of skills is essential and that is what makes this particular union so relevant and exciting.

'I can also assure our customers that the terms and conditions of their existing contracts with Union will be unchanged. The existing management team remains firmly in place and customers can have full confidence that our focus on providing great advice, service and agreed service levels will remain, and will continue to be governed by the terms of their existing service agreements.'

Iris adds Star Computers to the payroll

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 03 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle canannounce that Slough-based IRIS Software Group who deal with organisations that have large andcomplex payrollrequirements, have acquired Hertfordshire-based Star Computers, a payroll software firm who deliver in excess of one million payslips every month.

Business acquired: Star Computers Limited

Activities: Incorporated in 1981, and part of the Star Group of companies, their Star Payroll Professional software is used by payroll bureaus serving more than 75,000 organisations. The business will join the IRIS Human Capital Management (HCM) division.

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Purchaser: IRIS Software Group Limited

Activities: With 38 years' experience, IRIS are one of the UK's market leading providers of business critical software and services to the UK accountancy and payroll sectors.

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Additional info:

Oliver Shaw, chief executive of IRIS HCM, said:

'IRIS delivers two-and-a-half million payslips every month to the UK workforce, we're delighted to be able to reach and positively affect one million more UK employees through the acquisition of Star Computers.'

Bernard Skalla, chief executive of Star Computers, added:

'Like Star, IRIS Software Group has built an excellent reputation in delivering great payroll solutions to its customers for many years.'

'We're delighted to join the IRIS team and look forward to extending the offerings available for our loyal customers into the future. IRIS HCM is clearly very well placed to support and aid our continued success.'

New office sees La Salle double Irish presence

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Following recent successes in the Republic of Ireland, La Salle Corporate are pleased to announce the opening of a second Irish office, this time in the Northern Ireland capital city of Belfast.

As part of our continued expansion plans, the opening of the Belfast office enables La Salle to make our award-winning services accessible to this vibrant region.

UK Sales Director Matt Dillon said 'We're delighted to be opening another La Salle office here in Belfast. I've been working closely with several Irish companies over the last 12 months and we believe now is the right time to expand our presence into the region.'

'All the team are looking forward to the challenge and the opportunities this new location presents.'

Any Northern Ireland companies seeking advice on Mergers, Acquisitions or Exit Strategies can call our Belfast number on 028 9229 0087

US investment firm acquire LDF Group

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle can reveal that Flintshire-headquartered LDF Group, whospecialises in independent business financing have been acquired by Californian-based White Oak Global Advisors.

Business acquired: LDF Group

Activities: Established in 1986, the LDF Group is a well established funder and credit broker to UK businesses. The company operate from offices in Southampton, London, Manchester, Ewloe and Stewarton. Their aims are to provide their clients with the right finance solutions for their needs.

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Purchaser: White Oak (San Fransisco, USA)

Activities:White Oak offer flexible and efficient capital to businesses throughout their 'individual life-cycle' across various industries with over a dozen types of lending products including term debt, working capital and equipment financings.

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Additional info:

Andre Hakkak, chief executive of White Oak, said: 'Europe represents a large opportunity for White Oak and we are excited to grow our presence and activity in the region by welcoming LDF into the White Oak family.

'LDF has been on an incredible growth trajectory, completing more than £500m of financing to small businesses across the UK in 2017 alone, and we are confident that the business will continue to grow with the backing of White Oak.'

Peter Alderson, managing director of LDF, added: 'LDF will continue to provide the same level of support and service to its clients under the same model, now backed by more resources to deliver more financing, products and opportunities to entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout the UK.

'It also gives us the opportunity to look to the wider European market to develop our reach and presence. We are delighted to have found in White Oak a partner that shares our values and our keen focus on client success.'

Breedon secure a concrete deal

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle can disclose that Leicestershire-headquartred Breedon Southern (a subsidiary of Breedon) has acquired Stoke-based Staffs Concrete.

Business acquired: Staffs Concrete

Activities: Incorporated in 2004, the company are one of the Staffordshires leading suppliers of ready mixed concrete and floor screeds. Their services cater for both domestic and commercial customers.

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Purchaser: Breedon Southern Limited

Activities:As part of the Breedon Group which was incorporated in 1919, Breedon are the UK's largest independent construction materials group. The company is engaged in the operation of quarries, asphalt plants, and ready-mixed concrete and mortar plants serving southern England, Wales, the Midlands, East Anglia, and parts of northern England.

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Additional info:

Mike Pearce, chief executive of Breedon Southern, said: 'Staffs Concrete is exactly the kind of bolt-on acquisition we're looking for.'

'It has a great reputation, with a really committed team and a loyal customer base.

'It further strengthens our overall position in a key market for us and will enable us to provide our existing customers with an exciting new product and service offer.'

Why 2018 is the time to seek exit strategy advice...

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Fri, 23 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

2016 was a record breaking year for us during which our peers recognised us with the awards of The Deal of the Year and Deal Maker of the Year as a testament to our success, expertise and quality of service.

We knew 2017 was going to be more successful due to our level of pipeline business but we did not realise just how good it was going to be and on the back of another record year we were awarded, for the second year in succession, Deal of the Year and we are hopeful that in 2018 we can make it a triple success.

2018 has already started with a flurry of activity and we currently have pipeline sales valued at £175Million and expect to close many more before the end of the coming year.

Our Sales Director Matt Dillon has already been recognised by our peers and this year has been awarded the accolade of Sales Director of the Year UK clearly emphasising that La Salle Corporate is recognised by its peers as being the leading broker in the industry.

We have been advising our clients for over 12 months that interest rates would increase and we were proven right at the end of last year. The Bank of England recently stated that interest rates would rise again far sooner than expected and went on to say that this would represent a steep rise clearly indicating that they were concerned about the economy.

When interest rates rise investors seek a greater return on their investment and as a consequence company values drop. When factoring the effects of Brexit on top of interest rate rises, we are potentially facing a deep recession where investors flee the market altogether and the demand for UK companies falls to an all-time low.

When selling, timing is everything and as experts in our field all we can do is give our clients the best possible advice. That advice is that if you have been contemplating a sale of your company then you should look at doing it now rather than leaving it and losing share value.

Remember, you do not have to sell 100% of your shares. You can always do a part sale, bank money and retain a shareholding with a partner that would seek to grow the company thus increasing the value of your retained shareholding.

La Salle Corporate have been guiding clients through this process for many years and our reputation and expertise speaks for itself. As such, we would be delighted to provide you with advice and guidance entirely free of charge and with no obligation on your part.

Should you be interested in discussing our services, please do not hesitate to contact our Sales Director, Matt Dillon on 0161 975 1521, who looks forward to hearing from you.

Focus On: The Decision to Sell

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 09 Jan 2018 11:25:20 GMT

Part of our Focus On series of resources.

The Decision to Sell

For many business owners, there comes a point when the question of new ownership or control naturally arises. Whether the motivation is retirement, lifestyle changes, health, or a new challenge, deciding to sell your company is one of the most important decisions you will make.

When this moment comes, a few key questions follow:

When is the best time to sell?
How much is it worth?
Who will buy my company?

These are all important considerations, and the answers can have a major impact on the outcome of your sale.

Laying the Groundwork

Taking time to assess your business through the lens of a potential buyer can significantly influence both value and attractiveness. A well-prepared company tends to generate stronger interest and achieve smoother negotiations, particularly when dealing with motivated purchasers.

Selling a company is more than a legal or financial exercise. At its core, it is a sales and marketing process , with a clear objective: to maximise value for the owner. The methods used and the buyers approached can have a significant bearing on the result.

For example, if a competitor is approached, they may already know your sector well and will be unlikely to pay a premium unless you can clearly demonstrate points of difference or barriers to entry. On the other hand, a carefully targeted strategic buyer or investor may see greater value and growth potential.

Timing and Market Readiness

Buyers are typically drawn to businesses showing growth and with clear future prospects. Growth creates opportunity, and opportunity creates value. Regularly reviewing your exit strategy, even every six months, can help you identify the right moment to sell. Asking, “ Would someone want to buy my business today? ” can be a powerful indicator of how well your company is performing and how attractive it might be to acquirers.

No two deals are the same, but experience has shown that careful timing, preparation, and a well-managed process can make a significant difference.

An Emotional and Strategic Decision

Selling a business is not only a commercial decision, it is often an emotional one. Staff can feel like family. You have built a brand, a culture, and a legacy, and naturally, you want that to continue. Choosing the right buyer matters as much as securing the right price.

There are also different routes to consider. A full sale may provide a clean exit, but many owners choose to remain involved after taking some cash off the table, allowing them to de-risk while continuing to build on what they’ve created. Our role is to help you understand the options available and guide you towards the solution that fits your goals and personal priorities.

A Tailored Approach

Every company is unique, and so is every transaction. At La Salle Corporate, we work with you to assess timing, strategy, buyer types, and deal structures, ensuring the process is shaped around your objectives.

Selling a business is something most owners only do once. It should be done with careful preparation, clear strategy, and the right support.

Focus On: Pre-Sale Considerations

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 08 Jan 2018 16:35:19 GMT

Part of our Focus On series of resources.

The famous phrase “fail to prepare, prepare to fail” could not be more relevant when it comes to selling a company. Thoughtful preparation is often the key factor that separates a smooth, value-maximising transaction from a frustrating, drawn-out process.

Every business is unique, and the level of preparation required will depend on your structure, operations, and future plans. With years of experience guiding owners through this journey, we understand what information prospective buyers will expect — and how best to present it.

Before any major steps are taken, it’s crucial to establish your personal and professional goals for the transaction. Selling a business isn’t just a financial event — it’s a personal milestone that can shape the next stage of your life.

To help determine if your company is truly ready for sale, we typically organise a confidential, no-obligation meeting . This allows us to gain a clear understanding of how your business operates, identify any potential red flags, and answer any questions you may have.

A good starting point is to ask yourself some key questions:

Is now the right time personally to commit to selling your business?
What do you want or need from the deal?
Would you be willing to stay involved with the business post-sale, if required?
How strong is your management team without you at the helm?
What tax implications may apply to the sale?
Are there legal obstacles or complexities to address?
How will the sale impact your employees, customers, and suppliers?

These questions provide clarity and help anticipate issues that might otherwise surface late in negotiations. By minimising uncertainties early , you build buyer confidence, maintain momentum, and increase the likelihood of achieving the best possible outcome.

In many cases, answering these questions leads to practical steps that can enhance the value and marketability of your business. This might include restructuring the company, reviewing ownership or shareholding arrangements, or putting tax-efficient strategies in place ahead of a sale.

Our Pre-Sale Planning services are designed to support business owners through this crucial stage. By addressing structural and tax considerations early, we help ensure your business is positioned in the best possible light for potential buyers — and that you retain more of the value you’ve built.

Selling a company is a significant decision. With the right preparation and expert support, the process can be smoother, faster, and more rewarding.

Learn more about Pre-Sale Considerations

Focus On: Valuation (and how to do it properly)

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 16:34:59 GMT

Part of our Focus On series of resources.

Valuing Your Company

Valuing a business is rarely a straightforward calculation. While financial performance is central, the true value of a company often depends on how attractive it appears to the right buyer. Two different acquirers may view the same business very differently, which is why identifying the most suitable purchaser is just as important as the valuation itself.

Before taking instructions, we conduct a thorough risk assessment of your company. By viewing it through the eyes of a prospective buyer, we can anticipate the factors that may influence value and ensure you are in the strongest possible position when negotiations begin.

Assessing Key Value Drivers

Buyers consider many elements when forming their view of value. Among the most significant are:

Financial performance , past and projected
Key relationships with customers, suppliers and staff
Management structure , especially if the current shareholders plan to exit
Succession plans and second-tier leadership
Operational dependencies that may need to be addressed by an acquirer

Understanding these elements early gives us the opportunity to address potential concerns and present your business in the best possible light.

How Buyers Look at Value

While each acquirer approaches valuation differently, there are common themes that underpin most assessments.

Profitability

Buyers will analyse historic profitability over the past three years and place significant weight on future forecasts. While they are buying the past performance, their investment is based on future opportunity .

What’s Included in the Sale

Tangible assets, such as freehold property, can influence value. Buyers will consider whether they wish to purchase or lease property, and this flexibility can shape both valuation and deal structure.

Surplus Cash

Surplus cash built up in the business can often be extracted tax efficiently before completion, provided sufficient working capital remains in place. This can influence the overall structure of the deal and the proceeds received by the seller.

Beyond the Numbers

Valuation isn’t determined by financials alone. A range of commercial and operational factors can either enhance or reduce a buyer’s perception of value:

Market position: How your company compares to competitors and what differentiates it.
Owner involvement: A business that can operate independently is often more attractive.
Management depth: A strong leadership team gives buyers confidence in continuity.
Property: Whether the business occupies owned or leased premises, and how this affects profitability.
Customer base: A healthy, diversified mix of customers is generally more valuable than heavy reliance on one or two key accounts.
Growth prospects: Buyers pay close attention to future potential, including market trends, contracts, and pipeline opportunities.
Legal considerations: Potential risks identified during due diligence can affect value, which is why early preparation is important.

Our Approach to Valuation

Once these factors have been reviewed, we apply an appropriate methodology to arrive at a realistic and informed valuation guide . We never market a company with a fixed asking price, as this can create an unnecessary ceiling. Instead, we use valuation as a strategic benchmark to position your business effectively and generate the best possible outcome.

Our experience across a wide range of sectors allows us to anticipate how different types of buyers assess value , and to tailor the process accordingly. This helps us strengthen your negotiating position and unlock competitive tension between suitable acquirers.

A Strategic Foundation for the Sale

Valuation is more than a number; it’s the foundation of the entire sale strategy. By understanding your company’s strengths, identifying potential concerns in advance, and targeting the right acquirers, we can help ensure the value achieved reflects the hard work and dedication you have put into building your business.

Focus On: Private Equity

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Sat, 06 Jan 2018 12:58:33 GMT

Part of our Focus On series of resources.

Private Equity houses are professional investors . They consist of capital that is not listed on public exchanges. Private Equity is composed of funds and investors that directly invest in private companies. They raise capital from a range of sources — including high-net-worth individuals, pension funds, and institutions — to deploy into strong, scalable businesses.

There is a common misconception that Private Equity is simply a debt vehicle and nothing more. This could not be further from the truth.

Their real aim is to invest in profitable companies and, alongside shareholders, grow the business together to achieve a shared exit further down the line. They align themselves with the management team, bringing strategic insight, capital, and commercial know-how to help accelerate growth.

Private Equity investors can:

Open doors to new opportunities and networks
Support growth through acquisitions
Share their experience and best practices from other successful businesses

Two Main Routes to PE Involvement

For many business owners, there are two common pathways to partnering with Private Equity:

1 - Direct Investment as a Platform:

In this scenario, the Private Equity firm invests directly in your company, often taking a minority or majority stake. You remain at the heart of the business, with additional capital and strategic support to drive growth. Over time, you and the PE investor typically plan a joint exit, often at a significantly higher valuation.

2 - Acquisition by a PE-Backed Company:

Another option is to sell your business to a company that is already backed by Private Equity. In this case, you become part of a larger group, benefiting from shared resources, wider market reach, and stronger financial backing — often without needing to completely exit the business on day one.

Both routes offer flexibility: you can de-risk, take some cash off the table, and still have the opportunity to play a key role in the next phase of your company’s growth.

Many clients have the mindset, “I would never work for someone else.” But with Private Equity, you’re not working for someone else — you’re working with a partner who shares your goal. Having aligned interests and a clear future exit is exactly why so many Private Equity transactions turn into remarkable success storie s.

The advantages are clear:

Shareholders can release value now while retaining involvement
You maintain influence over your company’s future
A second sale, down the line, can often result in even greater overall proceeds

In effect, there are often two sales: the first is a partial sale to the Private Equity firm, and the second occurs when you exit together , typically at a higher valuation.

Here at La Salle, we believe our Private Equity network is among the strongest in the market. We work with both UK and international Private Equity firms that are actively seeking quality investment opportunities.

Their challenge is not a lack of capital — it’s a lack of good businesses coming to market.

The buyers are ready. We need the sellers.

Focus On: Trade Buyers

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Fri, 05 Jan 2018 15:14:18 GMT

Part of our Focus On series of resources.

A trade buyer is a buyer operating within the same or a closely related sector as your business. For many established companies, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are a proven strategy for growth. By acquiring another business within their industry, trade buyers can increase market share , broaden their product or service offering, expand their customer base, and strengthen their overall competitive position.

Why Trade Buyers Acquire

For trade buyers, acquiring a business is often more efficient and cost-effective than organic growth. Instead of spending years building capability or market presence, they can achieve instant scale through a targeted acquisition. This might include:

Expanding their geographic footprint
Gaining access to new customers and contracts
Diversifying their services or product lines
Strengthening operational capabilities and talent

Because of these strategic benefits, trade buyers are often among the most motivated and best-positioned purchasers in the market.

When a Trade Sale Makes Sense

A trade sale is often well-suited to business owners who are looking to fully exit their company . Common reasons include:

Retirement
Health considerations
Having taken the business as far as they can
Pursuing other personal or professional interests

In most cases, there may be a short transition period after the transaction, usually no longer than 6 to 12 months, during which the outgoing shareholders assist with handover and continuity. However, trade buyers typically have the expertise and resources to integrate the business quickly, making for a clean and straightforward exit .

Why Trade Buyers See Value

Trade buyers look for synergies, areas where the combined business can operate more efficiently than the two entities separately. By integrating functions, centralising operations, or leveraging shared resources, they can increase profitability almost immediately , which strengthens their return on investment.

This ability to quickly realise value often makes trade buyers willing to pay a competitive price for the right business.

How We Can Help

At La Salle, we maintain a wide network of trade buyer contacts across numerous sectors , both in the UK and internationally. We know how to position your business strategically to attract interest from the most suitable acquirers — those with the motivation, resources, and vision to make the transaction a success for both parties.

Focus On: Marketing, off-market

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 04 Jan 2018 16:34:44 GMT

Part of our Focus On series of resources.

Our Marketing Approach

At La Salle Corporate, we operate with complete discretion at all times. We understand this is often the single biggest concern for business owners exploring a sale. Maintaining confidentiality is fundamental to protecting your company, your people, and your legacy.

Our goal throughout the process is to minimise disruption to you and your business. We take a hands-on, guided approach, managing the sale process so you can stay focused on what matters most: running your company. While your input is essential for information requests and meeting qualified buyers, we handle the strategy, targeting, and communication behind the scenes.

Presenting a Strong, Targeted Opportunity

Any opportunity we bring to market must be presented with precision and professionalism. We understand how time-consuming it can be to pull together information while continuing to run a business, so we handle as much of that burden as possible.

The way we position your company depends on the process we agree together, but the objective is always the same: to make your business stand out to the right acquirer.

Off-Market Strategy with Real Intelligence

Unlike many advisors, we don’t openly advertise or list your company for sale . Instead, we use a carefully structured off-market approach designed to protect confidentiality while maximising value.

This approach is powered by two key strengths:

Our network – built over many years, comprising trade buyers across multiple sectors, private equity firms, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals.
Our research capability – an experienced, dedicated team with access to a wide range of specialist databases, live deal intelligence, and market insight.

Our research team plays a central role in identifying the right potential acquirers. They go beyond surface-level lists, analysing sector trends, ownership structures, and acquisition patterns to find buyers who may not be actively advertising their interest but are strategically well-placed to inves t.

They think creatively, connect dots others might miss, and produce tailored, intelligence-led target lists that align with your company’s profile and growth story.

A Controlled, Confidential Process

Once the target list is finalised, we discreetly approach only vetted decision-makers — typically fellow shareholders, directors, or investment principals. We operate under a strict “no names” policy until a buyer is properly qualified.

Before any detailed information is shared, buyers must sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement , ensuring full confidentiality throughout the process.

By coupling our extensive network with intelligent research, we can pinpoint high-quality, strategic acquirers without ever needing to publicly market your business.

Focus On: Deal Structure

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Wed, 03 Jan 2018 16:34:13 GMT

Part of our Focus On series of resources.

Deal Structure

The structure of a deal is just as important as the price, and sometimes even more so. Payment terms, timing, and the level of risk all play a critical role in determining whether an offer truly meets your objectives. Our job is to structure the transaction in a way that’s as attractive and secure as possible for you.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. At La Salle Corporate, we’re experienced in designing deal structures that align with each client’s commercial goals, personal priorities, and tax considerations .

Below are some of the most common structures used in transactions:

1. Cash at Completion

This is the cleanest and most straightforward option. The full purchase price is paid on the day of completion, held in the solicitor’s account, and transferred directly to the seller. It provides immediate liquidity and a clear exit with minimal ongoing involvement.

2. Deferred Payments

In this structure, part of the consideration is paid over an agreed period, for example, quarterly, every six months, or annually. Deferred payments can increase the total price achieved, while reducing risk for the buyer. For sellers, they can offer flexibility and a structured flow of funds over time.

3. Earn-Out

An earn-out links future payments to the company’s performance after the sale. This can help bridge valuation gaps between buyer and seller and can be particularly effective when the seller remains involved in the business. It ensures both parties are aligned on growth and value creation, while giving the seller the chance to benefit from future success .

4. Investment (Partial Sale)

This type of structure allows shareholders to de-risk by taking a portion of cash off the table now while retaining a stake in the business. It’s common in private equity transactions, where owners stay involved with a shared goal to scale the company. This approach can lead to a “ second bite of the cherry ”, a future exit at a higher valuation.

5. Shares as Consideration

Instead of receiving the full amount in cash, part of the consideration may be in shares of the acquiring company. This can be attractive when selling to a larger entity, allowing sellers to participate in the buyer’s future growth and keep their capital actively invested rather than parked in cash.

Structuring with Strategy

The right deal structure depends on many factors, from your personal plans and tax position to the buyer’s strategy and funding model. Our role is to evaluate every option , negotiate the most favourable terms, and make sure the structure aligns with your objectives both now and in the future.

Focus On: Negotiation

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Tue, 02 Jan 2018 16:34:29 GMT

Part of our Focus On series of resources.

The Negotiation Stage

By its very nature, negotiation is one of the most sensitive and decisive stages of a transaction. It is where strategy, preparation, and communication all come together.

At La Salle Corporate, our role at this stage is critical. We manage the process objectively, ensuring that discussions remain focused on the commercial issues at hand rather than being influenced by emotion. This helps preserve the relationship between you and the prospective purchaser, which is particularly important if you may be working together in the future.

Because of our extensive network, we often already have a relationship with the acquirer. This familiarity can be invaluable in managing expectations, building trust and keeping negotiations moving forward.

Our Approach

Selling a company can be personal as well as commercial. Our job is to review and assess offers pragmatically , advise on strategy, and ensure your best interests are represented at every stage.

We typically invite indicative offers by a set date, allowing us to review all expressions of interest at the same time. Depending on the level of engagement, we may then move to a second bidding stage to refine offers and terms.

The ultimate goal is to secure an acceptable deal on both value and terms, and to move smoothly into due diligence.

Key Principles of Successful Negotiation

Listen carefully

Negotiation is a two-way process. While we act solely in your interests, understanding the purchaser’s perspective helps us find solutions that work for both sides.

Stay focused

The objective is clear: to agree a price and terms that meet your goals. Our team ensures discussions remain constructive, professional, and forward-looking.

Be positive

A cooperative and solution-driven approach helps keep momentum and fosters trust with the buyer.

Be open and honest

Transparency is essential. Any deal will be subject to due diligence and warranties. Providing clear and reliable information builds confidence and reduces the risk of delays or disputes later in the process.

Experienced Support Throughout

At La Salle Corporate, we are present with our clients throughout the entire negotiation stage. We bring experience, established buyer relationships, and a clear understanding of how to balance commercial and personal dynamics.

Our focus is to secure a deal that works for you and to lay the groundwork for a smooth transition into the next stage.

Focus On: Due Diligence

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Mon, 01 Jan 2018 16:33:44 GMT

Part of our Focus On series of resources.

Due Diligence

Due diligence is the detailed investigation and audit carried out by the buyer before contracts are exchanged. It allows the purchaser to fully understand the company they are acquiring and ensures there are no unexpected issues.

Once an offer is accepted, Heads of Terms are prepared. This document sets out the framework for the deal. Legal representation is typically brought in at this stage if not already involved. We work closely with respected legal firms to coordinate the process efficiently and protect your interests.

Guiding You Through the Process

For many business owners, due diligence can feel daunting. Buyers will review all aspects of the company to ensure transparency and to verify the information provided. Our role is to support you through every step, ensuring you are well-prepared and that the process runs smoothly.

We work with you to prepare a secure, cloud-based data room containing all the key information buyers need, from financials and employee contracts to legal and operational documentation. By managing this carefully, we help keep the process organised and reduce unnecessary delays.

During this stage, legal, financial and commercial due diligence is carried out in parallel. Once these investigations are complete and both sides are satisfied, the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) is finalised. This is the legal contract for the sale of your shares and sets out the agreed terms of the transaction.

Types of Due Diligence

Traditionally, due diligence has focused on legal and financial matters. In recent years, commercial due diligence has also become an increasingly important part of the process.

The three areas often overlap, each providing essential insight to support a successful transaction.

1. Legal Due Diligence

Establishes the legal standing of the company and its key relationships. Typical areas include:

Ownership and structure
Statutory compliance
Funding facilities and liabilities
Contracts with customers and suppliers
Licensing and regulatory compliance
Intellectual property
Employment and property matters
Insurance

2. Financial Due Diligence

Assesses the financial health of the business, focusing on past performance and future forecasts. Common areas include:

Accounts, systems and reporting
Profit and loss and cash flow cycle
Forecasts and management information
Assets and liabilities, including property, fixed assets, debtors, working capital and cash

3. Commercial Due Diligence

Evaluates the company’s strategic position in the market. Typical areas include:

Customer and supplier relationships
Contractual frameworks
Order book and pipeline
Competitive landscape
Market conditions and economic factors
Product liabilities and distribution agreements

A Reassuring, Structured Approach

Due diligence can appear complex, but with experienced guidance it can be handled smoothly and efficiently. At La Salle Corporate, we take a hands-on approach throughout the process, working closely with legal and financial advisors to keep everything on track and to ensure your interests are fully protected.

Nursing recruiter acquired by trade buyer in La Salle-led deal

mark.whiteside@rtaonline.co.uk (Mark Whiteside) — Thu, 30 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

La Salle client has achieved the successful sale of Nursing Recruitment company to a trade buyer in a deal led by Matt Dillon.

Having set up their Recruitment company circa 20 years ago, the shareholders were of the opinion that that they had possibly taken the company as far as they could, and decided that they wished to enjoy semi retirement in order to concentrate on other interests.

The shareholders decided that La Salle Corporate posed the best option to assist them in achieving their goal.

La Salle Corporate were instructed to seek a suitable buyer, take ownership of the process required, which would ultimately lead to a successful transaction with an Enterprise Value of circa £7million.

Having identified a trade buyer, LaSalle then were composite in both instigating and completing the necessary negotiations that allowed the deal to proceed in the best interest of, and as directed by, their client.

Ably supported by his sales team, Matt Dillon of La Salle Corporate led the transaction from start to finish. Dillon said:

"Both shareholders were keen to find a suitable exit strategy at our initial meeting, albeit their preferred exit strategies differed, one keen to leave the company almost immediately, and the other happy to carry on and work within the 'new' organisation. I am delighted for the shareholders, and my team at LaSalle, that we were successful in this instance, to source a suitable, credible buyer, and negotiate the deal to its natural conclusion, with both shareholders realising their own personal goals."

Gary Partridge of Lexington Corporate Advisors advised the acquirers on the acquisition and Greenaway Scott provided legal advice. He commented:

"The company perfectly complements our clients' organisation and their existing group of companies and will enhance the growth trajectory of both businesses."

The buyers have politely requested for anonymity in relation to both themselves and their acquisition, and for the price to be undisclosed.

Confidentiality, the LaSalle USP, being key.