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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.