M&A FOCUS
F R E I G H T
WITH
ARE YOU
READY TO EXIT? D eciding to sell your business is most likely
If you are unable to answer these questions now, then start to think
the biggest decision you will ever make
about what you want. If you know the answers to them, then you
as a business owner.
are on the right path.
Are you thinking of selling?
Can you take a break?
Careful thought and planning is vital if you want to successfully sell
Day to day I speak with business owners heavily involved with their
your business. Making your business as attractive as possible to allure
companies. If you are relied upon, it is time to reduce this dependence!
prospective acquirers is critical. Freight, logistic and transport providers are people businesses so What do you want to achieve?
step back and make sure you have experienced management in place
Gaining clarity on what you want before starting the exit process is
that can shoulder the responsibility for these key relationships.
paramount to the transaction. You should have an idea of who you would
This will only enhance the value of the company.
like to purchase your life’s work. Just anybody is not going to cut it. Preparation Maximise value?
Early planning significantly increases the chances of a successful outcome. Preparation puts the seller in a strong position. Think like an outsider, identifying key risk areas and taking steps to ensure that
Preserve the culture?
these risks are mitigated. Have ammunition prepared to receive a
Is now the right time to exit?
Being able to provide accurate, timely financials is imperative to a
favourable price for your business.
smooth transaction. Preparing forecasts and making comparisons is a good place to start. This goes hand in hand with having a strong Maintain family heritage?
finance director who has a clear understanding of methods to improve financial management. If confidence can be secured by investors the
Remain involved and experience the growth investors can facilitate?
transaction is less likely to slip up during financial due diligence.