Benchmark International Logo Blog Mergers and Acquisitions

Archives

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between American Project & Repair to the Orion Group

The seller, American Project and Repair, is a leader in the facility maintenance space, with over 20 years of experience across the United States and Puerto Rico. Utilizing a vendor base of over 10,000 local licensed technicians and contractors, they have become the go-to source for facility maintenance for many Fortune 500 clients.

Ted Mastrucci, owner of AP&R, had this to say about the transaction: “When you are a small business owner, and you only get to do this one time in your life, you want to know that you have the best in your corner with you. I felt that way every day with Benchmark International. From our initial conversations until the deal was closed, Benchmark International was with me every step of the way. I worked with several people on the Benchmark International team along the way. Each one had a specific role, and then each one passed the ball on to the next person flawlessly. As a matter of fact, so well that I cannot remember a time where I had to repeat details or parts of the deal to them.”

The buyer, the Orion Group, is a field services company seeking to partner with leading family-owned service providers. Orion is building national platforms in the HVAC & plumbing, electrical, landscaping, and facilities maintenance sectors by investing in businesses with strong teams and cultures and creating unmatched growth opportunities for them. “Ted has created a unique interior service offering that prioritizes long-term relationships with service partners and advocating for customers. His industry expertise and commitment to excellence is inspiring and I am thrilled to welcome AP&R to the Orion FM platform,” said Isaiah Brown, co-CEO of Orion.

“It was a pleasure to work with Ted from AP&R. He was a quick study in the M&A process, and we are very thankful that he placed his trust with Benchmark International for the sale of his company. The Orion Group ran one of the most efficient due diligence processes and were true professionals throughout the transaction.” – Matthew Kekelis, Director, Benchmark International.

 

Schedule A Call

 

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 /Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 


ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL

Benchmark International’s global offices provide business owners in the middle market and lower middle market with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. To date, Benchmark International has handled engagements in excess of $8.25B across various industries worldwide. With decades of global M&A experience, Benchmark International’s deal teams, working from 14 offices across the world, have assisted hundreds of owners with achieving their personal objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses.

Website: http://www.benchmarkintl.com
Blog: http://blog.benchmarkcorporate.com

READ MORE >>

READ MORE >>

M&A Trends In The Lower And Middle Markets

In the first quarter of 2022, global middle-market M&A activity maintained the momentum that we saw in 2021. Last year, lower and middle-market companies played major roles in deal-making activity. Companies of all sizes enjoyed significant buyer interest in sectors ranging from tech, transportation, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics.

 A notable imbalance in supply and demand in the lower and middle markets has been driving up the valuations of healthy companies in hot sectors. This trend is expected to continue through 2022 for strong companies in the lower and middle markets, especially in sectors such as healthcare, cybersecurity, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and niche manufacturing.

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Notus Heavy Lift Solutions Limited and British Engineering Services Limited

Benchmark International is delighted to announce the acquisition of Liverpool-based Notus by Warrington-based British Engineering Services.

Notus is an engineering consultancy specialising in the delivery of heavy lift and transport consultancy services, lifting assurance, and the planning and execution of lifting operations. Services are delivered across the energy, rail, defence, and construction sectors throughout the UK and Europe.

Do you have an exit or growth strategy in place?

For over 160 years British Engineering Services has been engaged in the testing, inspection, and certification of industrial machinery via its highly skilled engineer surveyors and engineering consultants. The British Engineering Services Group team has grown considerably due to ongoing recruitment activity and acquisitions and now consists of almost 1,000 people.

The acquisition is British Engineering Services' seventh since 2019 and the second conducted via Benchmark International in the last two months.

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction of Access Plus (Scotland) Ltd and TrainingPlus.com Ltd TO Briggs Equipment UK Limited

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the acquisition of both Access Plus and TrainingPlus to Briggs Equipment.

Operating from three sites in Scotland – Glasgow, Edinburgh and Irvine – Access Plus has delivered high quality powered access solutions to customers throughout the UK since 1998. The company manages approximately 700 powered access assets, which will help bolster Briggs Equipment’s comprehensive fleet of access equipment and increase coverage in Scotland.

Briggs Equipment is the exclusive national distributor in the UK for the Hyster and Yale ranges of forklift trucks and other materials handling equipment.

According to Pete Jones, Briggs Equipment’s managing director, the group has significantly increased its access equipment capability across the UK and Ireland with the acquisition, enabling the company to accelerate its powered access strategy and deliver a broader proposition to its customers. With the addition of TrainingPlus, the company has the opportunity to expand its existing training services.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

George Marriott, Access Plus and TrainingPlus managing director, commented: “We are extremely pleased to be a part of the Briggs Equipment Group following confirmation of the acquisition. Our team can’t wait to get started and continue the ongoing development of our businesses in a strategic and progressive manner. The culture and values of Briggs aligns perfectly with us and we could not have picked a better parent company.

“Throughout the acquisition process the team at Briggs have conducted themselves in an exemplary manner and we are looking forward to working closely as part of the group moving forward. We are determined to maximise the potential of our business, whilst still delivering a great service to our customers and this acquisition will help us deliver on that ambition.”

Commenting on working with Benchmark International, Mr Marriot added: “I was guided to a successful conclusion with a world class expert, James Robinson, at Benchmark. My frustration with due diligence he took ownership of, his attention to detail was faultless and my experience was certainly exceptional. This was my first sale and "my baby" was comfortably delivered into caring hands. James managed the purchaser, my legal team, the accountants, my team and myself with a caring and surety - allowing me to understand the complexities of the deal, which helped me make better decisions along the journey.”

READ MORE >>

Seller Handover In A Business Sale

Handover Process

After completing the sale of your business, there is typically a handover process between the seller and the buyer. One of a buyer’s most significant concerns when taking over a business is that the company’s performance continues as it was before the sale. When a seller is willing to stay on for a handover process post-closing, the buyer has increased trust in the business, resulting in the business selling more quickly and at a higher valuation. Therefore, it will be beneficial to both parties to plan this part of the process well and in advance of the time that the handover will take place. The length, compensation, etc., of the Handover period will be worked through during the Purchase Agreement negotiations. If there is a failure to recognize and offer an acceptable handover period for the business, it could cause a deal to fall apart while it is in due diligence.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

Stages Of A Business Handover

The typical stages of a business handover are the Training Stage, Handover Stage, and Assistance Stage. Immediately following the sale, the seller will usually continue to run 100% of the business. During this time, the new owner will take some time to familiarize themselves with the business. Then, as the Training stage begins, the seller will slowly reduce their involvement while the buyer continues to increase theirs. In the Training stage, the seller must create a checklist of items that he can run through with the new owner. Mark each item as complete once it’s finished, and keep this for your records if you run into any issues down the road. It is a good idea to observe how a day in the life of your business typically goes. Take note of every payroll task you complete, every person you communicate with, any supplier or contractor documentation, provide copies of all budgets, information about cash flow, etc. Continue with this process until you feel that you have been able to document all of the particulars that the new owner will need to know in order to keep the business operating smoothly. As the seller trains the new owner, the seller will slowly start to reduce their involvement while the buyer continues to increase theirs. This sequence will continue until the complete handover is achieved.

During the Handover stage, the new owner runs 75%-100% of the business with the seller still on hand to help answer questions and ensure that processes are running smoothly. If you have had a successful Training stage, the new owner will have increased confidence in successfully running the business. This may matter to the seller as well, particularly if there are any deferred payments or earnouts that have been agreed to in the structure of the sale. It is imperative to train the buyer and put them in a position to be successful, as both parties benefit from doing so. The new owner will now be in charge of making crucial decisions and bringing innovative ideas and future plans for the business to the table. Customer and employee relationships with the new owner should be solidly in place at this point, and the seller should have very limited involvement in the day-to-day activities of the business.

Once the new owner is running 100% of the business, it is common to enter the Assistance stage, where both parties have made an agreement to remain in contact for a set period of time in case there are any questions that come up. While the seller is no longer directly engaged with the daily runnings of the company, it is best for them to make themselves available to answer any questions that the new owner might have. Many times the majority of this communication can be handled through email and phone conversations. An essential item to have established for this stage is the amount of time the new owner can expect to receive help from the seller, paying particular care to have the expectations and limitations outlined.

A properly planned Handover period can help the seller and the new owner is mentally prepared for the seller’s exit and help prepare the business, customers, and employees for the handover. Once the handover is complete and the seller exits fully, they can know that the business is in good hands. It is time for them to recover from and reflect on the ownership handover period and identify their next goal to get excited about.

 

  Author
  Amy Alonso
  Transaction Director
  Benchmark International

  T: 512 861 3301
  E: Alonso@benchmarkintl.com 

 

READ MORE >>

What Is A 338(H)(10) Election And Why It Is Important To Me?

Knowing the structure of a transaction you are involved in is key to optimizing the composition of a deal. If you enter a proposed transaction thinking you understand the offer, you may be blindsided by various structures that may affect your net cash position. A critical aspect of a transaction is understanding the structure and what it means for you as a buyer or seller. Clients often believe that they agree to accept a stock transaction only to find out that the transaction will include an election that may affect their tax bill. A 338(H)(10) election is one of the more popular tax elections, but there are others.

READ MORE >>

2022 Food & Beverage Industry Report

The global food & beverage services market is forecast to grow from $3,232.94 billion in 2021 to $3,678.61 billion in 2022. That represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.8%. Growth is primarily due to companies rearranging operations amid recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic that resulted in so many challenges for the industry. By 2026, the market is expected to surge to $5,235.52 billion at a CAGR of 9.2%.

READ MORE >>

Will Individual Investors Replace Institutional Investors’ Pending Retreat from Private Equity?

Dry powder, the amount of money private equity has at its disposal to make future investments, has gone up and up over the last ten years. The most obvious reason was the desire for institutions, which most famously include insurance companies, pension funds, and university endowments, to find yield on their troves of cash during a time when their traditional vehicle, bonds, were providing essentially zero yields.

READ MORE >>

2022 Fintech Industry Report

The global fintech market was valued at $6.5 trillion in 2021 and is estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.9% between 2022 and 2028 to reach $16.65 trillion.

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Edge Electric and Sundog Capital

Benchmark International’s client Edge Electric, one of Austin, Texas’ largest and premier commercial and residential electrical services provider, has successfully sold to Sundog Capital of Atlanta, Georgia.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

Edge Electric, founded in 2009, is a full-service licensed electrical subcontractor serving both the residential and commercial markets with an emphasis in the commercial market. The company has been successful at providing electrical services on a diverse group of projects, including new construction, remodel, tenant improvement, and service.

Sundog Capital is a private equity firm founded in 2021 with a team of investors and operators focused on acquiring and growing businesses in the lower middle market. Sundog take a generalist investing approach, with a particular interest in specialty contracting services, manufacturing, distribution and consumer products. Sundog has completed its first investment in a combined platform that creates a business of considerable scale, spanning multiple high-growth geographies with excellent diversification across end markets.

Benchmark International proved value in finding a buyer with experience in the industry through its proprietary multi-medium marketing strategies. In addition, Benchmark International incorporated several campaigns with local, regional, and national associations. Benchmark International understood that our client wanted a partner to help them grow their business to its full potential and found a buyer that was excited to partner with the business and build on their impressive history and legacy.

Sandra Johnson, President of Edge Electric, commented, “I have been very satisfied with Benchmark’s excellent service throughout this sales process, and I appreciate the hard work and professionalism offered by the Benchmark team.”

Transaction Director, Amy Alonso, commented, “We are thrilled that our client has found the perfect partner in Sundog to support them with additional resources to move ahead with an ambitious growth strategy. It was a pleasure working with both parties and we are excited to watch the future success of the business as it continues to expand in the Texas market.”

 

Schedule A Call

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Enquiries@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 

ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL

Benchmark International’s global offices provide business owners in the middle market and lower middle market with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. To date, Benchmark International has handled engagements in excess of $8.25B across various industries worldwide. With decades of global M&A experience, Benchmark International’s deal teams, working from 14 offices across the world, have assisted thousands of owners with achieving their personal objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses.

Website: http://www.benchmarkintl.com
Blog: http://blog.benchmarkcorporate.com

READ MORE >>

 

READ MORE >>

Applying EBITDA Multiples To Your Company Valuation

If you are considering selling your business, you undoubtedly need to understand its value. Unfortunately, arriving at that answer can entail many different methodologies, and it often involves the familiar valuation formula of applying a multiple of Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBTIDA).

For example, if a company boasts EBITDA of $1 million, and a five times EBITDA multiple is applied, the company’s estimated value is $5 million. But how do we know what multiple applies to your business? And how do we know if the EBITDA number is even accurate? After all, EBITDA will not be the same for every business.

READ MORE >>

How Can A Buyer Claw Back Purchase Price?

Sellers often focus on the purchase price when considering a sale. Most sellers aim to maximize the proceeds realized through the sale of their business. This mindset makes total sense. They are monetizing their life’s work. Many have lived frugally, diverting money into rather than out of business. As such, the sale of the company truly is the time to monetize a lifetime of effort.

Feeling unfulfilled? Explore your options...

Buyers who have been stretched to a valuation beyond their comfort level may be motivated to recapture some of that “excess purchase price” during the deal. Their approach to minimizing their outlay can take on several forms. In this article, I will cover a few of the most common methods used by buyers to “normalize” their outlay.

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Complete Marketing Resources, Inc. and VIV

The seller, Complete Marketing Resources, is a leader in the web design, search engine optimization and online marketing space, specializing in the automotive industry. Established in 2008, CMR boosts an impressive portfolio of over 600 auto shops that benefit from their wide range of services.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

The buyer, VIV, offers their clients a suite of digital marketing solutions across the U.S. VIV’s mission is to help businesses grow their sales. “As VIV strives to offer companies best-in-class marketing solutions that support all stages of the selling process, CMR, Inc brings a talented team and cutting-edge programming that bolsters our offering and expands our geographical reach across the U.S. CMR, Inc will continue to have the same great service and more by joining VIV,” said Allan Noe, Managing Partner, of VIV.

“The team at Complete Marketing Resources carved out an impressive niche in the automotive digital marketing vertical. Their hard work and dedication to their clients established them as a leader that did not go unrecognized. VIV sees the value of adding them to their already robust suite of services. A great result for both parties”.

– Matthew Kekelis, Director, Benchmark International

Schedule A Call

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Enquiries@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 

 

ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL

Benchmark International’s global offices provide business owners in the middle market and lower middle market with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. To date, Benchmark International has handled engagements in excess of $8.25B across various industries worldwide. With decades of global M&A experience, Benchmark International’s deal teams, working from 14 offices across the world, have assisted thousands of owners with achieving their personal objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses.

Website: http://www.benchmarkintl.com
Blog: http://blog.benchmarkcorporate.com

READ MORE >>

 

 

READ MORE >>

2022 Digital Healthcare Industry Report

The global overall healthcare industry value is projected to reach $665.37 billion by 2028. Focusing on the global digital healthcare segment of the market, it was valued at $145.57 billion in 2021, and it is expected to reach $430.52 billion by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.9%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant shifts in the healthcare sector, as there was an urgent need to adapt and embrace new ways of operating. Many of these changes ushered in the latest in digital healthcare technology and are here to stay. The digital health segment applies software, hardware, and other tech services to the healthcare sector. The space is comprised of categories such as: 
READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between LaddersFree Ltd and REACT Group PLC

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the transaction between Topsham-based LaddersFree and AIM listed REACT, in a deal worth up to £8.5m.

Established for 20 years, LaddersFree is a commercial window cleaning business serving independent, regional, and national customers across the UK. With an established network of over 300 approved service partners, LaddersFree utilises local window cleaning companies to offer its services to all areas of mainland UK.

Since its inception, LaddersFree has grown organically. Unaudited financials for the year to 30 November 2021 show that it generated revenue of c£3m and a pre-tax profit of c£1.4m.

Do you have an exit or growth strategy in place?

REACT is an industry leader in the provision of specialist cleaning, working in challenging environments such as hotels, prisons, crime scenes, and cruise ships.

This is REACT Group’s second acquisition and represents a further step in the company’s ambition to achieve its stated growth strategy. The transaction provides REACT with the opportunity to diversify its service offering through expansion into complementary markets, and to leverage existing resources to accelerate growth.

READ MORE >>

You Haven’t Missed Out On The Ideal Seller’s Market

2021 was a strong market for business owners looking to sell their companies. The market remains ideal and will do so as we move into the first quarter of 2022. As we are in the middle of this year, there is no better time to consider putting your business on the market.

2021 Recap
M&A activity was moving at a record pace in 2021, thanks to economic recovery, a strong stock market, low-interest rates, rapid digitalization, more SPACs, confident boardrooms, and available debt. The U.S. had reported more than $2 trillion in M&A activity in 2021, with the year on pace to be the most active in history. Not to mention that the second quarter of 2021 was the third straight, with total global M&A value surpassing $1 trillion. That is the first time this has ever happened in three consecutive quarters. So even in the middle of the year, when things typically slow down, we are still seeing a great deal of investment, and the market is still flooded with capital.

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Strategic Partnership Between HSQ Group, Inc. and The HFW Companies

The HFW Companies, a leading professional services and growth partner to architecture and engineering firms throughout the country, is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with HSQ Group, LLC, one of the most prominent civil engineering companies in South Florida.

READ MORE >>

2022 Marketing Consulting, Branding & PR Industry Report

The Global Marketing Consulting Market

The global marketing consulting market is expected to grow by $3.83 billion between 2022 and 2026, increasing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.75%.

Market growth is being driven by various factors, including continued education, the rising need for improved customer digital experiences, and the providing of custom-made solutions.

Because the global marketing consulting market is rather fragmented, we are seeing vendors trying to remain competitive by deploying growth strategies such as forming strategic partnerships. Over the next four years, 35% of the global market’s growth will originate from North America. 

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Air Projects Limited and EA-RS Fire Group

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the sale of Leicester-based Air Projects to Witham-based EA-RS.

Air Projects is a specialist ventilation engineer working on healthcare and commercial projects from basic extraction systems to hospital theatres and laboratories. Air Projects also provides expert advice on an array of services in ventilation, fume extraction, fire damper testing and healthcare compliance.

EA-RS is a provider of intelligent, sustainable, and compliant fire and security systems in the UK. The company installs and maintains a broad range of systems covering critical infrastructures such as data centres and healthcare facilities and serves several other markets such as commercial property, education and social housing.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

EA-RS has been backed by Rockpool Investments since 2021, and Air Projects is the seventh company EA-RS Group have acquired since last year.

This acquisition supports the group’s strategy to further broaden its geographic reach and to present new opportunities throughout the UK. Additionally, the transaction will expand both organisations range of services to their respective client bases, including fire damper testing for EA-RS' clients, facilitating growth and enabling synergies between all businesses within the group.

Shaun Sutton, managing director of Air Projects, said this about working with Benchmark International: “Many thanks to James, Charlotte and Roger for their expert advice and professional approach to the whole acquisition process for us. From initial marketing through the negotiations and final due diligence stages, James and Roger have remained flexible, knowledgeable and most of all calm and collected in their manner, which has made the whole process less stressful than it could have been.”

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Named Best Middle Market M&a Specialists

Benchmark International has been named the Best Middle Market M&A Specialists by Corporate Vision’s Corporate Excellence Awards.

READ MORE >>

What Are SPACs?

A SPAC  (Special Purpose Acquisition Company) is a company with no business operations that is formed solely to raise capital through an IPO to purchase another existing company. It does not produce any product or service, and it does not sell anything. Although SPACs have exploded in popularity in the past few years, they have been around since the early 1990s. Formerly, they were often seen as a last resort for businesses that couldn’t raise money on open markets. 
READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Newgroup (PTY) LTD and Sunpac (PTY) LTD for the Product Brands: Sela, My Natural and Muthi Medicine

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the transaction between NewGroup and Sunpac (Pty) Ltd, with Sunpac acquiring NewGroup’s Sela, My Natural and Muthi Medicine brands.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

NewGroup (Pty) Ltd is a private company owning several brands in the complementary medicines and natural beauty sectors, including Herbex. The brands acquired include a range of specialty teas, hair care solutions, and natural herbal remedies, all traded extensively throughout South Africa and internationally.

Eddie Bisset, Chief Executive Officer for NewGroup, commented on the transaction, saying, “I would like to thank the full Benchmark team for the smooth facilitation of the sale of our three brands. The level of professionalism displayed by everyone from start to finish is unparalleled. As a seller, we were guided every step of the way, with no pressure or unanswered questions. Every concern, query or change of strategy was met with prompt and courteous responses.”

Shaun Laffer, Chief Executive Officer for Sunpac, remarked, “The process of acquiring the brands from NewGroup was well managed by the Benchmark team and was executed in line with the tight timelines set out by the parties. NewGroup effectively managed all the interactions between the parties in a professional and obliging way, and we found the team a pleasure to work with.”

John Loubser, Transaction Leader at Benchmark International added, “Throughout the entire process, all parties involved were communicative and collaborative, allowing the Benchmark International team to facilitate a swift conclusion. It was a pleasure to represent NewGroup and we are delighted to have found a good home for the Sela, My Natural and Muthi Medicine brands. On behalf of everyone at Benchmark International, we would like to wish all parties every success for the future.”

Schedule A Call

 

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Enquiries@BenchmarkIntl.com

 

ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL

Benchmark International’s global offices provide business owners in the middle market and lower middle market with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. To date, Benchmark International has handled engagements in excess of $7B across various industries worldwide. With decades of global M&A experience, Benchmark International’s deal teams, working from 14 offices across the world, have assisted hundreds of owners with achieving their personal objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses.

Website: http://www.benchmarkintl.com
Blog: http://blog.benchmarkcorporate.com

READ MORE >>

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Named International Mid-market Advisory Of The Year (Corporate Finance)

Benchmark International has been named the International Mid-market (Corporate Finance) Advisory of the Year by the Gamechangers™ 2022 Global Awards. 

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International is Pleased to Announce it is Sponsoring DEALSOURCING 2022

Benchmark International is pleased to announce that it will be sponsoring DEALSOURCING 2022 on 13th September at the Dorint Hotel Frankfurt/Oberursel.

Dealsourcing is a key event in Germany for M&A professionals, hosting hundreds of participants including private equity firms, funding platforms, restructuring advisors, M&A advisors, and due diligence professionals, to name a few.

As the most efficient networking event of the German corporate banking and finance community, DEALSOURCING provides Benchmark International with the prime opportunity to meet the right contacts for its sell-side mandates, providing us with a unique opportunity to showcase the opportunities we represent.

Interested in your company being featured? 

As well as networking opportunities, the event also include 30 innovative workshops to enhance our opportunities to connect with the best buyers for our clients.

Do you want to be featured and showcased in front of leading dealmakers? Naturally, we present only a select number of companies for each event, so we would encourage you to contact us now to ensure your business is included.

READ MORE >>

2022 Professional Services & Management Consulting Industry Report

The Professional Services Market
In 2022, the global professional services market is forecast to grow to $6697.56 billion, up from $6040.91 billion in 2021. That is at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.9%. This growth is mainly due to companies’ urgent need to reorganize operations while recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to operational challenges because of lockdowns and restrictions. As a result, the global professional services market is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 9.6% to reach $9651.77 billion in 2026. 
READ MORE >>

I missed the market!

We have been in an unprecedented bull market. I use the phrase here broadly as the public markets have been flying for over a decade, and the M&A market has seen similar levels of growth. Spurred on by aggressive monetary and fiscal policies and a relaxed regulatory environment, the S&P 500 has grown 15.47% as of the time of this writing from the bottom on March 9, 2009. Similarly, the DJIA (The Dow 30) has grown at an annual clip of 13.64% over the course of this thirteen-year bull market. Remember what the rule of 72 demonstrates- that money doubles every 6 years at 12% and in less than five years at 15%. This is a remarkable rate of growth when you consider this market has spanned nearly 1/7th of a century.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

But bull markets must end. Markets do work in cycles. Much like our natural habitats require destructive fires to seed future growth and a healthy ecosystem, so too does the market. I’m not referencing the concrete jungles we find ourselves in today, but rather our natural environments. Bear markets reintroduce a rational approach to investing that had long been sidelined in favor of momentum and emotion-based investment “theses."

 

Further, bear markets tend to focus investments toward the highest quality of companies, known as a flight to quality. This clearing of the playing field, separating the wheat from the chaff, will often spur innovation and future growth. So a bear market is as natural to the market dynamic as is a bull market. These countervailing forces are required for regeneration.

 

The bull market created trillions of dollars of dry powder for buyers to deploy in the coming years. The balance sheets of corporations, large and small, are replete with cash there to deploy in pursuit of their stated strategic goals. The best of markets tends to flood the M&A market with excess buyers, many of which lack the track record, experience, credibility, and true access to funding required to transact successfully. Bear markets tend to weed away many of these less credible buyers creating a similar flight to quality detailed in the above discussion about the public markets. And while the cost of debt will tick up and valuations may similarly tick down, the likelihood of actually consummating a transaction increase as there is a much better chance that the buyer selected can get a deal done.

 

I tend to view my decisions in life through a very specific lens- my expected value lens. If one were to look at an M&A transaction through that lens, we would likely find the expected value of the proceeds from a transaction as being higher, even if valuations tick down, because the likelihood of closing is greatly increased.   And frankly, while the cost of capital on senior debt will rise over the course of the year, given the aforementioned stores of cash in their coffers, buyers will have the ability to utilize more equity to bridge any gaps in the capital stack. Private Equity funds have more than $2 Trillion of dry power. They also have a mandate to put capital to work regardless of the cost of debt lest they face aggressive headwinds during their next fund raise. Their Limited Partners, known as LPs, require that they put the money to work. Deals will continue to happen and we may in fact see more deals in the next eighteen months or more as buyers finally draw down on the excess stores of cash build-up that resulted from inflated valuations and bidding wars with less credible buyers.

 

Sellers must consider several factors when considering a sale. Of course, valuation and a healthy economic environment are among those factors but they don't have to be the determining one. We are often faced with life changes of which we have no control. Some of us simply reach a stage where we no longer wish to carry the burden that invariably comes with owning and running a business. Or, God forbid, we encounter health challenges personally or in our family that requires that we focus our attention elsewhere. Perhaps we come to the realization that we are no longer the right caretaker for the business? That the business has reached a level where our skills no longer map to what is required to successfully steer. Whatever the reason to sell your company, we can only control the controllables.

 

Just like in the public markets, if we try to time it perfectly, we will invariably fail because the objective was unattainable. Selling one's business is a life-altering decision. Selling a business can be both liberating and gutting. Sellers are at once monetizing their life's work and entrusting someone else with its care. The stakes are high. When making that determination, it is critical that sellers consider all of the critical variables. While valuation, market conditions and timing are among the variables worthy of consideration, they are merely inputs to a multivariate equation. Often, upon careful consideration, sellers determine that the qualitative elements are more important than are the quantitative ones.

 

  Author
  Dara Shareef
  Managing Partner
  Benchmark International

  T: 813 898 2350
  E: Shareef@benchmarkintl.com 

 

READ MORE >>

10 Inspirational Graphics About Retirement

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International's Brittney Zoeller Named To 10 Most Inspiring Women Leaders Of 2022

Brittney Zoeller, Benchmark International’s director of marketing, has been named one of the 10 Most Inspiring Women Leaders of 2022 by Industry Era for Women.

READ MORE >>

What’s The Difference Between Recurring And Repeat Revenue?

If you are considering selling your business, you will need to have a clear understanding of its type of customer revenue because it can significantly impact the value of your business. Sometimes people confuse recurring revenue with repeat revenue, but it is essential to understand how they are not the same thing.

Recurring Revenue
Recurring revenue stems from a contractually bound legal agreement for a solution delivered over time. It is usually contractual over one or multiple years, and because it may carry penalties or fees if the customer leaves, it can be counted on into the future. This makes it highly valued by prospective acquirers because of its predictability and lower risk.

However, recurring revenue does not have to be contractual to be valuable. Depending on the business and the services offered, it can be too costly or too much of a hassle for a customer to leave or switch providers. An excellent example of this is customer relationship marketing companies that collect large amounts of valued data over time, making it more beneficial for clients to stick with their services. Below is a list of the different types of recurring revenue.

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Unveils its New Düsseldorf Office

Benchmark International is delighted to announce it has officially opened its new offices in Germany.

Taking residence on the eighth floor of the Sky Office in Düsseldorf, the large and modern offices opened in 2009. With an aesthetically pleasing design both inside and out, the building creates an inspiring working environment in a first-class location.

In close proximity to Düsseldorf International Airport and near the city centre of Düsseldorf, the building is very well positioned from a logistical standpoint.

A perfect fit for Benchmark International, the Sky Office will be a great representation of the Benchmark brand in Germany.

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between ARC Abatement Holding Inc and West Fork IP, LLC

Posted on April 21, 2022 By in Deal completions

Benchmark International successfully facilitated the transaction of a collection of four Texas-based companies that provide a range of services, including hazardous material abatement, environmental consulting, and training for private and public clients across the United States.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

The four operational entities include ARC Abatement, Inc. and ARC Abatement I, Ltd, ARC Industrial Services, LLC, and Asbestos Consulting Services, Inc. The four non-operational entities include ARC O&G Services, LLC, C&C Coating, Inc., ARC Roofing, LLC, and ARC Allied Ventures, LLC.

Fernandez Holdings, acting for West Fork IP, LLC, is an investment firm with a diverse portfolio of businesses operating in multiple industries throughout the United States.

“This was a deal that got a lot of attention, and we engaged with several interested buyers, which required the facilitation of productive conversation between buyers and seller. It was an honor to work with them toward our collective goal of finding a cultural fit and completing the deal. We wish both parties the best with the handover,” said Brenda Spencer, Transaction Director.

Schedule A Call

 

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Enquiries@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 

ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL

Benchmark International’s global offices provide business owners in the middle market and lower middle market with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. To date, Benchmark International has handled engagements in excess of $8.25B across various industries worldwide. With decades of global M&A experience, Benchmark International’s deal teams, working from 14 offices across the world, have assisted thousands of owners with achieving their personal objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses.

Website: http://www.benchmarkintl.com
Blog: http://blog.benchmarkcorporate.com

READ MORE >>

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International’s Steven Keane Named Best International Chairman Of The Year, USA

Benchmark International’s Executive Chairman, Steven Keane, has been named the Best International Chairman of the Year, USA by the Global 100 (2022).

In the Global 100 by EMG Publishing, a world-renowned publishing house, each award has a unique, proprietary selection process and ranking method. According to a comprehensive set of criteria, only the most worthy winners are chosen based on their domestic and international work. Judging focuses heavily on the complexity, and strategic significance of work performed, underscoring the importance of the recognition each winner is receiving as an organization or individual.

EMG Publishing is based in the United Kingdom and is known for producing some of the world’s most coveted awards programs that celebrate excellence across the globe. EMG Publishing aims to provide a benchmark of the very best industry leaders, exemplary teams, and distinguished organizations.

Congratulations, Steven!

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between VAI Architects Incorporated and HED

Benchmark International successfully facilitated the transaction of an award-winning, Dallas-based architectural firm offering a wide range of planning and design services.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

'VAI Architects Incorporated (VAI) primarily works on public infrastructure projects for the transportation, government, education, healthcare, and religious sectors. With over 35 years of experience in the greater Dallas-Ft. Worth area, the VAI team has established trust among clients by consistently delivering excellence through collaborative design innovation and dedication to client service.

"VAI has always been dedicated to client service and committed to the Dallas community, and since our founding, we’ve emphasized learning and collaboration in our company culture — values we share with HED,” said VAI Co-Founder William Vidaud de la Vega. “Those shared values and commitments are strengthened by joining forces through the merger, and we look forward to working as part of the HED team to continue creating a positive impact for clients in Dallas and the surrounding area.”

Known nationally for the top-quality architecture and engineering services delivered by the firm’s expansive array of professionals, HED creates innovative and sustainable design solutions for clients in the healthcare, higher education, housing, manufacturing, and product development, mission-critical, mixed-use, preK-12, science, and workplace sectors.

“Our strategic merger with VAI is a great fit because of our shared commitment to creating a positive impact for clients and the greater community while providing growth opportunities for our talented staff,” said Peter Devereaux, FAIA, Chairman and CEO of HED. “We are pleased to welcome the VAI team into the HED family and look forward to using our combined strength to explore new opportunities and fulfill our common commitment to ensuring long-term success for our clients.”

“Benchmark was honored to work with VAI and HED through this strategic merger,” said Brenda Spencer, Transaction Director for Benchmark International. “Their shared commitment to their staff, projects, and communities were early indicators of a good fit. We wish them well in the transition and in their future endeavors.”

 

Schedule A Call

 

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Enquiries@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 

ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL

Benchmark International’s global offices provide business owners in the middle market and lower middle market with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. To date, Benchmark International has handled engagements in excess of $8.25B across various industries worldwide. With decades of global M&A experience, Benchmark International’s deal teams, working from 14 offices across the world, have assisted thousands of owners with achieving their personal objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses.

Website: http://www.benchmarkintl.com
Blog: http://blog.benchmarkcorporate.com

READ MORE >> 

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between RS Equipment Company LLC, DBA Hotsy Carlson Equipment Company, and Texas Enterpries, Inc.

Benchmark International successfully facilitated the transaction of an industrial cleaning equipment sales, rental, and service company. The company serves customers in various sectors, including education, transportation, manufacturing, construction, food processing, agriculture, oil and gas, municipal, retail, restaurants, and contract cleaning.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

RS Equipment Company, Hotsy Carlson sells and rents industrial cleaning equipment and services primarily to the Central Texas market as well as nationwide. These products include over 900 models of industrial pressure washers and customized detergents. Services include tech servicing, parts sales, and scheduled maintenance.

Founded in 1921, Texas Enterprises, Inc (TEI) is a fifth-generation family-owned and operated company. TEI distributes petroleum and lubricant products with offices across ten locations in Texas and New Mexico. Texas Enterprises, Inc is currently led by Ford Smith Jr. and is headquartered in Austin, Texas. With over 250 employees, TEI constantly strives to deliver the best possible products and services to their many customers.

''RS Equipment LLC is a well-established company experiencing substantial growth. There were many interested buyers, but none compared to the cultural fit they found with TEI. Their mutual appreciation was evident from the first point of contact and both sides worked well together. We wish them all the best in the transition and their future endeavors."
- Brenda Spencer, Transaction Director

 

Schedule A Call

 

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Enquiries@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 

ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL

Benchmark International’s global offices provide business owners in the middle market and lower middle market with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. To date, Benchmark International has handled engagements in excess of $8.25B across various industries worldwide. With decades of global M&A experience, Benchmark International’s deal teams, working from 14 offices across the world, have assisted thousands of owners with achieving their personal objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses.

Website: http://www.benchmarkintl.com
Blog: http://blog.benchmarkcorporate.com

READ MORE >>


READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between YakGear, Inc. and T-H Marine Supplies, LLC, and Nautical Group International Holdings Limited

Benchmark International successfully facilitated the transaction of YakGear, Inc., a paddle sports and marine accessories distributor, to two buyers, T-H Marine Supplies, LLC and Nautical Group International Holdings Limited. YakGear Inc., based in Houston, Texas, also has operating agreements to provide RAILBLAZA products throughout North America, as well as distribution agreements with several other third-party water sports brands.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

YakGear Inc. is an industry-leading supplier of kayak equipment, paddle sports accessories, and boat-mounting accessories to individual consumers, as well as distributors across the United States via e-commerce and retail sales. The company has several partnerships with big-box retailers, distribution outlets, and e-commerce channels such as Amazon to market and reach a wide audience.

“I wanted to take the time to thank [Benchmark International] for all the hard work y’all did to make selling the company an easy thing. From the early beginning of the adventure, I knew I had someone to rely on and count on for conversation and guidance. It was a long road, over two years, but you brought many competent buyers to the table, it was just me looking for the right one to continue the tradition my team and I had built into YakGear for 17 years.” -Bill Bragman Founder of YakGear Inc.

Nautical Group Holdings (NGH) acquired all assets of YakGear Inc. that relate to RAILBLAZA distribution, including associated stock and direct-to-consumer (DTC) accounts. RAILBLAZA USA Inc. (RAILBLAZA USA) will operate as a 100% owned subsidiary of NGH from Houston, Texas, managing all RAILBLAZA operations and sales distribution to the North American market.

NGH aims to achieve a dominant market position for each of its niche portfolio brands while accelerating an innovation focus with speed to market while assisting portfolio companies to build out governance and corporate functions to a higher level of maturity to support growth. It will capitalize on a broad range of well-developed relationships with global distributors, partners, and customers, supplying best-in-class solutions.

Commenting on the transaction, CEO of NGH, Marc Michel, said, “Our thanks to the YakGear team who have done an amazing job of establishing and growing RAILBLAZA in the US market. This is a strategic acquisition to accelerate our momentum in the US market and put in place a focused RAILBLAZA team.”

The remaining assets of YakGear Inc. have been acquired by TH Marine, a division of OneWater (NASDAQ: ONEW). T-H Marine has grown to be one of the largest suppliers of marine parts and accessories in the United States. T-H Marine is based in Huntsville, Alabama, where it provides various products, including jack plates, outboard tilt and trim controls, rigging components, boat plumbing, hatches, LED lights, live well aeration, and more.

“Since 2006, YakGear Founder and President Bill Bragman and his team have done a remarkable job providing accessories to kayak, canoe, and stand up paddleboard enthusiasts, earning YakGear’s reputation as a household name among their audience,” said Jeff Huntley Sr., Chief Executive Officer for T-H Marine. “We’re thrilled to add the YakGear team, including Jerron Wosel, YakGear’s Director of Procurement and now President of the YakGear division, to T-H Marine, along with their expansive portfolio of paddle sport products. YakGear’s strong multi-channel approach to the aftermarket complements our platform and provides exposure to an entirely new set of paddle sports retailers and consumers, giving T-H Marine a stronger foothold in the space.”

“Representing an industry leader like YakGear was an honor for our team and are confident the acquiring parties will continue to grow within their niche and benefit from this transaction.” Brenda Spencer, Transaction Director said, “we wish success to all in their future endeavors”.

 

Schedule A Call

 

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Enquiries@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 

ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL

Benchmark International’s global offices provide business owners in the middle market and lower middle market with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. To date, Benchmark International has handled engagements in excess of $8.25B across various industries worldwide. With decades of global M&A experience, Benchmark International’s deal teams, working from 14 offices across the world, have assisted thousands of owners with achieving their personal objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses.

Website: http://www.benchmarkintl.com
Blog: http://blog.benchmarkcorporate.com

READ MORE >>

READ MORE >>

The Pros & Cons Of Buying An Established Franchise

The franchise business model can offer a great way to own your own business without the risks that are proven to come with start-ups. But owning an existing franchise can undoubtedly come with its share of challenges. So before jumping into a franchise ownership, be sure to consider all the good and bad that you could face before deciding if it’s the right opportunity for you. 
 
The Pros 
 
An existing franchise comes with a history that you can use to assess its financial data to know whether it is a good business. In addition, you can see all the books to make your determination of possible future performance. 
 
It can be easier to obtain financing for a business with an existing history of financial performance because lenders have something concrete to go by and, therefore, more confidence. 
 
You get to skip the time-consuming start-up phases of owning a business, such as creating a business plan, creating a product, doing market research and testing, and figuring out how to scale. With a franchise, this work has already been done for you. Next, you have to make sure it succeeds. 
READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Fuse Rail Limited and John Sisk & Son Ltd

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the acquisition of Kent-based Fuse Rail by international construction and civil engineering group, John Sisk & Son (Sisk Rail).

Fuse Rail services electrification and plant requirements within the rail industry. Working on behalf of Network Rail, recent projects have included a new electric distribution cable at a supply cable in Lydden, installation of a new conductor rail on the Sevenoaks tunnel refurbishment, and new reactive DC cabling for the Eastbourne substation.

With a 160-year history, Sisk Rail is an international construction and civil engineering business undertaking structural remediation, buildings refurbishment, mechanical and electrical planned maintenance, litter clearance, earthworks, fencing, drainage clearance and repairs on behalf of Network Rail and other train operating companies. The company has offices throughout Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe, specifically the Benelux, DACH and Nordic regions.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

The acquired company will continue to operate under its current branding and management team.

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Ranked in Mergermarket’s Global League Tables Q1 2022

Benchmark International is pleased to announce that it has been ranked in the top 10 by Mergermarket for the number of deals it has conducted in Ireland.

Bank of America, PwC and JPMorgan are amongst the companies to also rank in the top 10.

An Acuris company, Mergermarket delivers M&A intelligence, data and research. To qualify in its league tables, transactions must be over 5m USD in value and publicly available.

Looking for a Corporate Finance Adviser? 

James Thornton, COO at Benchmark International, commented: “We are delighted to have been ranked in Mergermarket’s Global & Regional League Tables for the first quarter of 2022. To be ranked in these league tables is further acknowledgement of the hard work and effort our teams put into every transaction.

“Having only established an office in Ireland less than five years ago, it is great to see that we are growing our footprint and have established ourselves as a distinguished institution in this location by conducting a number of deals over 5m USD, competing with M&A industry giants.

“Over the course of the last year, Benchmark International has expanded its international reach further, establishing an office in Germany, and I’m looking forward to seeing what our new team will achieve, and seeing Benchmark International on the German league tables as well very soon!”

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International's Kendall Stafford Wins "Top USA Woman Deal Maker Award"

Benchmark International’s own Kendall Stafford has won the Top USA Woman Deal Maker Award from the 4th Annual USA Growth Intelligence Forum and the USA M&A Atlas Awards.

The award singularly honors the A-list of the most talented, respected, and brilliant women dealmakers from private equity, venture capital, investment banks, legal, and restructuring transactional communities. It is officially “award winner recognition,” unlike industry lists, rankings, editorial praise, or write-ups.

READ MORE >>

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Real Regulatory Limited and Transcrip Partners LLP

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the acquisition of Dublin-based Real Regulatory by private equity-backed tranScrip.

Real Regulatory is a consultancy firm specialising in European regulatory affairs, quality systems and compliance for products including medicines, medical devices, and drug device combinations. Headquartered in Dublin, the company also has offices in Cambridgeshire and Malta.

Founder and managing director, Karen Real, who has more than 35 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical industry, will remain with the business moving forward.

tranScrip is a fast-growing contract drug development organisation which supports the development and lifecycle of medicines. It is backed by private equity firm, Palatine, and the deal is the first acquisition made by the company since securing Palatine’s investment in 2021 via its dedicated Impact Fund.

Ready to explore your exit and growth options?

The strategic acquisition significantly expands tranScrip’s regulatory affairs capabilities, strengthening its ability to provide comprehensive support to its customers.

READ MORE >>

    Subscribe to Email Updates

    Recent Posts

    Follow Us on Twitter

    Archive

    see all