Buyers are cautious and suspicious. Do you know how they think? Over the many years we have been buying and selling technology businesses we have learnt how to recognise, and more importantly, overcome initial doubts that we encounter from potential buyers. It’s all about evidence,...
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Is it the right time to sell my business? This is a question we are asked all the time. We see three principal elements that should help inform the decision to sell: Personal timing (ie. your objectives) Business timing (ie. its current performance & immediate...
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The value of a business can be entirely in its technology – but that is rare. Most acquirers are more interested in how the technology is being used to keep customers happy. That said when technology is a key part of the deal there are...
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For some management information can be as simple as a monthly P&L or weekly cash flow forecast, however identifying key forward looking metrics within specific areas will not only display confidence in a potential acquirer’s mind, it will also evidence sound business processes and management....
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There’s nothing better than a good sales pipeline to engage a potential buyer. A credible sales forecast is a powerful tool to give confidence to a buyer, but this is not something to pull together at the last minute. Start projecting sales on a regular...
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Technology may be at the heart of your business, but most acquirers will be at least as interested in your customers as your technology (unless of course it is nascent technology). A good mix and spread of customers will naturally be more attractive than having...
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An acquirer is buying the future, so it is important to articulate a credible road map for the business. A good question to ask yourself is how would you spend a £1m+ investment in the business? If you are unable to come up with a...
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Many buyers see the acquisition of smaller businesses as potentially more hassle than for larger ones and therefore it is important to establish the credibility of the business at an early stage. Buyers are generally cautious, especially when reviewing the acquisition of owner-managed businesses. Establishing...
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A tidy business contributes hugely to an effective sale and there are plenty of things to consider and implement to ensure your sale process goes smoothly from the very beginning. It’s mostly in the preparation – we all know the ‘6 Ps’ rule (perfect preparation...
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First impressions count. The first thing potential acquirers will do is take to the Internet and study your website. Ensure the content is up to date and has suitably contemporary news and customer testimonials… You might also want to adapt the website to project the...
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