When you prepare for an acquisition, it is about much more than just the financial figures. It is about your vision, your dreams and your future. An experienced M&A advisor can help you achieve these goals.

We help our national and international clients to identify as well as anonymously contact potential target companies. We proactively push the acquisition process for you so that it can be successfully completed.

Our experienced team takes over the project management and brings all key stakeholders to the table. The client’s workload is thus considerably reduced. In close coordination with the client, a matching process takes place between the strategy objectives, the product & service portfolio and the target company. The acquisition is implemented silently and meticulously. In the course of the due diligence process, the risks are evaluated and calculated into the pricing accordingly. Our experienced negotiators achieve the best possible result.

As starkpartners consulting, we have a resilient, medium-sized network at our disposal, which enables you to gain personal access to medium-sized owners. We maintain our personal network on a regular basis, so that you will succeed in approaching and convincing suitable entrepreneurs through us.

The individual M&A buy-side project phases are as follows:

  • Company and market analysis
  • Formulation of M&A strategy
  • Acquisition search profile is developed
  • Specific identification of suitable target companies (long list)
  • Specific selection of target companies (short list)
  • Anonymous contacting of potential target companies
  • Obtain willingness to sell and confidentiality agreement
  • Confidential meeting at shareholder level
  • Review of the company data received and determination of the “strategic fit”.
  • Draw up a decision paper for the management
  • Realistic company valuation
  • Communication with target company
  • Letter of intent coordination
  • Compilation of the interdisciplinary DD team incl. catalogue of requirements
  • Independent DD examination in previously agreed subject areas (including FDD)
  • Monitoring of the DD audit
  • DD report for specialist area incl. derivation of impact on enterprise value & SPA
  • Preparation of financial models incl. review of financial viability
    Hedging of risks
  • Successful negotiation
  • Coordination of essential SPA contents
  • Developing and arguing the purchase price model and formula
  • Negotiating regulations concerning the former owners
  • Conclusion of the purchase agreement

Key figures of our clients

What differentiates us and what added value do we deliver?

 

  • Specific industry knowledge and experience with medium-sized companies
  • Understanding of client’s business requirements and objectives
  • Expertise in identifying and evaluating target companies (cost savings)
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to address the client’s concerns and doubts (risk minimisation)
  • Years of experience to effectively negotiate and close transactions
  • Excellent project management skills (time saving)
  • Integrity and discretion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

1. What is an M&A buy-side project?

An M&A buy-side project is a process in which a company buys another company in order to expand its business, improve its competitiveness, create synergies and realise cost savings or enter new markets. It is viewed from the perspective of the buying company.

2. How is a suitable target company identified?

A suitable target company is identified through thorough market research, analysis of industry trends and review of finances and business potential. It is also important to consider the culture and vision of the target company.

3. How important is due diligence in the context of an M&A buy-side project?

Due diligence is an indispensable part of the M&A buy-side process, where the target company is thoroughly reviewed to ensure that it is suitable for acquisition. This includes reviewing finances, legal matters, operational risks and other relevant factors.

4. How does the valuation and negotiation process work?

The valuation and negotiation process begins when the buying company sends an offer to the target company. Negotiations on the transaction value, terms and other important aspects of the transaction follow. If both parties reach an agreement, a purchase agreement is signed.

5. What needs to be considered in the integration and monitoring of the acquired company?

The integration and monitoring of the acquired company require careful planning and review.

6. How do you deal with possible cultural differences during the integration?

It is important to understand and take into account the culture of the acquired company to ensure a successful integration. This can be achieved through communication with the management and staff of the acquired company, as well as through training and workshops.

7. How do you deal with staffing problems?

Staffing issues may arise during integration, especially where roles and tasks overlap. This should be carefully planned and communicated to minimise uncertainty and frustration.

8. How is it ensured that the acquired business will deliver the desired benefits?

It is important to define clear goals and expectations for the acquired business and monitor it regularly to ensure that it is delivering the desired benefits. This can be done by monitoring financials, customer feedback and other relevant metrics.

9. How important is it to have qualified advice in an M&A buy-side project?

Qualified advice can be essential in an M&A buy-side project to ensure that all key steps are thoroughly planned and executed. Experienced advice can also be helpful in overcoming challenges and dealing with risks.

References that prove our commitment and competences

 

We have a proven track record in assisting our clients with acquisition processes.

Our experienced team has a successful track record in assisting clients with M&A buy-side projects. Some of our impressive projects:

  • Canadian automotive supplier was looking for a medium-sized company in the spring segment.
  • Danish group was looking for a company with a focus on water filtration
  • Swiss investment company was looking for an investment in a specific IT services segment

 

Our Specialists

Thorsten Stark

Thorsten Stark
Senior Partner

24/7 Uptime
Lars Stark

Lars Stark
Director

24/7 Uptime