The “Seven-year problem”
Proposed timelines we are seeing from buyers of owner managed businesses.
Preparation: 1 year
The problem
Preparation is often talked about but rarely are value-added actions undertaken.
Prospective buyers see through “Quick fixes”.
Buyers like a constant historical sales and profit trend of at least the last 3 years.
If this is not available, it can delay the business preparation even longer.
The Solution
Dexterity Partners key differentiators are our Fit to Sell and Fit for the Future hands-on tailored business analysis.
Too often “opinions not facts”, we focus on commercial sustainability and measurable KPI’s.
Sales process: 1 year
The problem
Process requires several stages preparation, buyer identification, marketing, offer verification negotiation, due diligence and legal agreement.
The traditional approach uses multiple brokers your accountants, sales agents, corporate finance and lawyers.
None of whom own the end to end process.
The Solution
Dexterity Partners project manages via one point of contact, taking ownership of all stages via our own Fit to Sell team, researchers marketing and advisory teams working closely with the legal team and any other advisors to produce a fully integrated sales process
Earnout: 3-4 years
The problem
Earnout commitment often overlooked by own businesses dependent on the owner or providing services rather than products
This ties in owners to the future creating uncertainty over total value
The solution
This can be reduced via our Fit for the Future analysis
It provides evidence, not hope, that existing performance will be maintained
Consideration as shares: 2 years
The problem
When selling to a corporate the consideration often includes their own shares
Requirement to hold for 1 2 3 years
The shares may increase or decrease, and you, the buyer, does not have the actual cash
The solution
Address early in any negotiations
Included in any Heads of Terms
Avoid incurring due diligence costs by agreeing any period of been unable to trade the shares
Summary
Dexterity Partners can significantly reduce this timeline without destroying value
We invest in you today to build value for an exit tomorrow
Our unique approach significantly shortens the timeline to realise cash
If you are looking to sell it is beneficial to consider the above problems now
If you would like a free assessment of your business, please contact me
Mobile - 07817 627 149