If your business is successful in your geographical region, it could be time to look at moving into new markets. Expanding your company into new markets can be a powerful solution for creating growth for several reasons. If your business is based in the United States, just stop and consider the fact that 96 percent of the world’s consumers reside outside of America’s borders. Globalization is becoming more and more common for brands, and it is here to stay.

Gain New Customers and Boost Revenue

When a business is performing well, it is not uncommon for its growth opportunities to become exhausted within its home market. By turning to expansion strategies, new markets open up significant potential to reach a broader customer base, in turn increasing sales and revenue. In fact, reports show that 45 percent of middle market companies make more than half of their revenue overseas.

Diversify

By taking your company into new markets, you have the opportunity to diversify, making revenue more stable. Say your domestic market is slowing. By being in a more global market, you gain the advantage of having it as a protective measure during slower economic times at home.

Enhance Your Reputation

When you provide your product or service to customers in new markets, it bolsters your reputation both abroad and at home. A favorable reputation inherently attracts new customers. Expansion also builds name brand recognition and gives your business more credibility on a larger scale.

Get a Competitive Edge

This one is simple. Get into new markets before your competitors do. This is especially important if you are operating in a saturated market. If you get there first, you get the customers first and can take measures to retain them. This is much easier than being the second or third in the new market and trying to lure customers to switch to your business for similar products or services. This is why it’s no surprise that nearly 60 percent of middle market companies include international expansion into their growth strategies.

Access More Talent

More geographical reach means a bigger talent pool. It also means adding valuable advantages such as language skills and varied educational backgrounds. It also allows you to employ local talent that has the expertise to effortlessly serve and communicate with your customers in the same time zone. This can be a key strategy if your company is older and has decades of experience operating in your home market.

Save Money

Believe it or not, expanding can actually lower your company’s operational costs and save you money, especially if your business involves manufacturing. In other markets, you may find lower costs of labor and more affordable talent. Also, advancements in e-commerce and logistics have lowered the cost of doing business overseas. And lets not forget about taxes. Several countries around the world offer tax incentives to companies looking to expand internationally because it brings new business opportunities to their homeland.

Contact Us

If you are a business owner looking for ways to grow your company, talk to our M&A experts at Benchmark International. We have extensive experience, a massive network of global connections, and plenty of great ideas. You can take comfort in knowing that everything we do is predicated upon doing the right thing for you and your business.

Having a solid integration plan in place for your company merger is critical to the future success of your business. These tips can help prepare you for the process.  

1. Begin planning from the earliest possible point in time. Outline all of your goals and objectives, employ best practices, and identify any gaps in your plan. Make sure all the key parties involved in the merger are in agreement on the integration plan. You should start implementing the integration process before announcing the deal. This enables you to begin integration immediately versus rushing to make important decisions at the last minute.
2. Create an integration team and clearly communicate the strategy for moving ahead with all necessary parties involved. Assess your key areas of value and designate the teams or persons responsible for these areas, making sure they understand the exit criteria they will need to meet.
3. Make sure leadership roles are clearly defined during and after the merger. You may even want to consider bringing in leadership from outside both companies to benefit from a neutral perspective. Insist that leadership is committed to both the big picture for the company and the details of getting integration done right.
4. Synergy is important in all aspects of the business, but especially in its culture. Commit to one culture and take measures to ensure that it will be preserved.

5. You are going to want your staff to be positive and excited about the merger, rather than nervous and/or cynical. This means you are going to have to sell the deal to them, ensuring they understand why the move will be good for them. Craft an internal communication plan that makes sure that no one is left in the dark at any point along the way. You will want to make sure you keep the overall messaging consistent to manage expectations properly.
6. Have a solid plan for all things IT. This is a critical component of any business. How the technology will be integrated must be completely planned out to avoid any communication breakdowns or loss of important data. Implement a structure to track progress and identify potential risks so that they can be addressed in a timely manner.
7. Understand what type of deal you are making and how it will dictate the days ahead. For example, a scale deal is an expansion in the same or overlapping business. A scope deal is an expansion into a new market, product or channel. All of your integration decisions will be based on this.
8. All sorts of things can crop up and slow down or sidetrack an M&A transaction. Do your best to stick to the timetable you outlined while ensuring that you make smart decisions rather than just following the process for the process’s sake.
9. Just like easing the minds of your employees, you will need to do the same for your customers. Make every effort to ensure minimal disruption for all of your customers and clearly communicate your plans with them to address any concerns.
10. Remember you are still running a business. Avoid becoming so distracted by the transaction that you neglect business priorities such as your customers’ needs. You must keep the company on track and running smoothly if you expect the deal to be a success.

Finally, be sure to celebrate your successes. After an arduous process, employees should feel that their work is appreciated and everyone should share in keeping the momentum going moving forward.

Contact Us

At Benchmark International, our highly esteemed M&A experts are eager to roll up our sleeves and get you a stellar deal for your company. Reach out to us at your convenience.

Rivertop Contracting is a comprehensive landscape management service company with a strong presence in upstate South Carolina. The company offers lawn maintenance, new construction landscaping, and paver work.  Benchmark International worked with Rivertop Contracting to identify salient business metrics that present the fundamentals and prospects of the business. We marketed these metrics to key interested parties, negotiated multiple letters of intent, and ultimately facilitated the transaction between the two companies.

Owner and CEO of Rivertop Contracting, Inc. Rob Atema commented, "It was a pleasure working with the Benchmark International team. Their expertise, persistence, and knowledge of creative deal structure negotiation led to a mutually successful transaction and a newfound relationship for both sides of the deal. I know who I’ll be calling when I decide to sell my other business."

The Greenery, Inc. was seeking to strategically purchase market share in the area that Rivertop’s South Carolina operations were located. Those goals aligned with the seller’s desire to divest and focus on other established locations of the business.

The Greenery was first established on Hilton Head Island in 1973 by Ruthie and Berry Edwards. Today, it has developed into a multi-location full spectrum landscaping and contracting firm that is employee-owned and continues to expand throughout the East Coast region of the US.

Benchmark International's Transaction Director, Don Rooney commented regarding the deal completion, “Benchmark International is happy to have successfully facilitated the transaction between Rivertop Contracting and The Greenery. We look forward to assisting Rob in the sale of his other companies when the time comes.”

Benchmark International has successfully facilitated the transaction between Alliance Air Solutions, Inc. (“Alliance Air”) and Climatech Mechanical Services, Inc.

Alliance Air was incorporated in 2006 as a commercial and industrial HVAC installation and service company. Since its inception, the company has maintained a strong reputation within its market as a quality heating and air conditioning service provider. The company’s approach, centered on quality and integrity, ensures each client is treated well and each project is delivered in a timely and efficient manner.

Climatech is a full-service mechanical contracting company serving customers in several states. Over the past 48 years, they have grown into one of the largest contractors for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration in their served regions. The acquisition creates additional capacity and geographic expansion to an already successful service model.

“Alliance offers an exciting opportunity for Climatech to expand its service offerings in a variety of different areas” explains Brad Taback, CEO of Climatech.  “This acquisition will provide significant growth opportunities and strengthens our management team so that we are able to achieve our goals in the Florida marketplace.”   

Regarding the deal completion, Senior Transaction Associate Sunny Yang Garten at Benchmark International commented, “It was a pleasure to represent Alliance Air in this strategic transaction. This acquisition represents a tremendous opportunity for both businesses and their teams to strategically accelerate the rate of growth. On behalf of Benchmark International, we wish both companies continued success.”

Every business owner wants to grow their company, but having access to capital to make it happen can make all the difference in the world. Growth capital is money that you borrow to help grow your business’s operations and, ideally, its profitability. There are many different forms of growth capital. It may be structured as a short- or long-term loan or as a line of credit. Long-term financing is the most common because it is easier to repay.

There are several reasons that growth capital can be secured by a business.

• To purchase commercial real estate
• To buy equipment to increase production
• To increase workforce
• To expand into new markets
• To increase advertising and marketing efforts
• To purchase another company

Growth capital is different from working capital because it is debt financing to create growth, while working capital is used for financing the daily operations of the business and keep it running. It is also different from equity capital, which requires relinquishing partial ownership and entering into a strategic partnership in exchange for investor funding. Growth capital does not require giving up any ownership.

Types of Growth Capital Loans

There are several financing options for small to mid-size businesses seeking paths to growth.

• Conventional growth capital from bank lenders. This method typically offers the lowest rates and fees, and longest terms. The average conventional business lender approves between 20 to 50 percent of all growth capital loans.
• SBA financing with an enhancement guarantee by the Small Business Administration to cover your losses if you fail to repay. This financing is used for startups, acquisitions, expansion, construction, revolving funds, and working capital.
• Asset-based growth capital that shows lenders collateral and substantial cash flow for approval. If you do not have adequate cash flow to get approved, you can use assets such as real estate, equipment, or inventory as collateral. These lending rates are often higher than that of banks, and the terms are shorter.
• Alternative growth capital from private lenders, non-bank lenders, marketplace lenders and mid-prime alternative lenders have shorter terms but can be amortized over up to five years.
• Cash advance capital is a short-term advance that involves selling a part of your business’s future receivables for a lump sum. This form of financing is usually more expensive, so the ability to increase revenue needs to justify the cost.

Applying for Growth Capital

When you apply for growth capital, lenders will assess the profitability of your company. They will want to ensure that your business model is proven, cash flow is adequate, and operations are efficient. After all, they want to feel confident that the loan can be repaid.

As defined by the National Venture Capital Association, growth equity investments feature the following attributes.

• The business’s revenues are growing rapidly.
• The company is cash flow positive, profitable, or approaching profitability.
• The business is founder-owned and has no prior institutional investment.
• The investor is agnostic about control and purchases minority ownership positions more often than not.
• The industry investment mix is comparable to that of venture capital investors.
• The capital is used for company needs or shareholder liquidity and additional financing rounds aren’t expected until exit.
• The investments use zero or light leverage at purchase.
• The returns are mainly a function of growth, not leverage.

How Can We Help?

At Benchmark International, we have an award-winning team of M&A advisors ready to help you take your business to the next level, whether it’s through a growth strategy, an exit plan, a merger, or an acquisition.   

Ridgeline Advisors (“Ridgeline”), a Dallas-based private equity firm, is pleased to announce it has completed the recapitalization of insurance and annuity software developer Management Data, Inc. (“MDI”).

Founded in 1982, MDI has operated as a software developer and ASP provider to insurance and annuity companies. MDI serves its customers by customizing software needs and providing best in class service.

“We are pleased to partner with Pat and the MDI team, they have built an impressive organization that is well positioned to continue to serve its clients during this challenging operating environment. We are impressed with the MDI’s emphasis on technical expertise, product leadership and customer service,” said Worth Snyder, a Managing Director of Ridgeline. “MDI has developed a unique platform that creates a compelling customer value proposition, evidenced by its roster of blue-chip clients in the insurance category. We look forward to helping MDI continue to grow and enhance its product offering and value proposition,” commented Awais Shaikh, a Managing Director of Ridgeline.

“After an intensive three-year search for the right successor, we have finally found an organization that shares our vision and commitment to total customer service and support for our employees. After 23 years of running MDI, I can transition control with the assurance that the legacy of our unique attitude of customer support and value for our clients will be carried on with the same commitment that I have had over these many years,” commented Pat Michael, President and CEO of MDI.

Tyrus O’Neill, Managing Partner with Benchmark International, added “We would like to congratulate Management Data and Pat Michael, as well as, Ridgeline Advisors on a successful deal. Everyone at Benchmark International was impressed by the professionalism of both parties throughout the entire process. Additionally, it’s fantastic to see continued deal activity despite everything taking place in the broader economy. We wish everyone involved nothing but the best moving forward and believe it’s the beginning of a great partnership for Ridgeline and Management Data.”

About Management Data, Inc.
Based in Pelham, Alabama, Management Data, Inc. (“MDI”), provides policy administration software and services and has supported insurance companies and banks offering insurance products since 1982. MDI is exclusively focused on the insurance segment, serving carriers who sell individual or group life, annuity, and health policies. MDI’s core system FIMMAS supports all product lines in a single implementation utilizing the synergy of cross product and client support for both Individual and Group products. FIMMAS supports complete end-to-end insurance functionality from a pre-sale quote through claims payments. FIMMAS is a robust and flexible policy administration system that helps insurers accelerate underwriting and claims to enhance the customer experience and support profitable growth. For additional information visit www.mgtdata.com.

About Ridgeline
Ridgeline is a Dallas-based investment firm that partners with seasoned management teams to invest in growing, profitable, privately-held companies across North America with a focus on four core industry sectors: technology, consumer, healthcare, and business solutions. The firm takes a selective approach to investing in high-potential businesses whose owners and management teams want an investment partner with the capital, experience, and record of successful collaboration required to achieve their liquidity and value-creation objectives.

Benchmark International received a thank you card from Tampa General Hospital (TGH), reminding us how important it is to support our neighbors and healthcare heroes during these unprecedented times.

On April 14th and 15th, our founders Steven Keane and Gregory Jackson purchased 400 pizza pies to feed the healthcare professionals at TGH. We wanted to give back to the community by supporting our favorite pizza place - Grimaldi's Pizzeria, while also feeding the healthcare professionals at TGH, who are selflessly working each day to help fight against COVID-19 and keep our community safe.

Benchmark International is honored to have supported Tampa General Hospital and their inspiring healthcare heroes.

Benchmark International is pleased to have successfully facilitated the transaction between Oasis Water Holdings (PTY) LTD and both Fledge Capital (PTY) LTD & SLA Capital (PTY) LTD.

Oasis Water (PTY) LTD (Oasis) is a franchise group that provides clean water to retailers, corporations, end-users, and mines. The franchise operations are of various sizes, ranging from full bottling plants to small retail outlets and in-store kiosks, located across South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. This well-known and highly regarded brand has a reputation for quality products at affordable prices, in easy-to-reach locations. A contract bottling plant and owned spring water source expand the supply chain offering.

Naas du Preez, the CEO of the Oasis Water Group was quoted saying “Our solid network of more than 300 franchised Oasis Water outlets in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia (RO3 Water) is the ideal springboard for further expansion and our Value-Unlock Growth Strategy. With the added value and vast experience of Fledge Capital and SLA Capital, we can unlock our full potential.”

Fledge Capital is an independent investment company that provides capital solutions to private companies across a wide range of industries that meet its investment criteria. It prefers to provide capital to companies with proven business models and leading management teams to grow those businesses. Current investee companies include WeBuyCars, King Price, BetterBond, Safari Outdoor, Atterbury Properties, etc.

Bolstered by the positive significance of the transaction for the South African M&A industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, Andre Bresler the Managing Director at Benchmark International, added “It is genuinely gratifying to see such an impressive business attract two reputable growth partners and to conclude a value-oriented deal for all parties concerned.”

Benchmark International’s client Gasket & Packing Inc. a Borger, Texas-based industrial supply and distribution company has successfully sold to a subsidiary of German-owned conglomerate Elring Klinger.

Gasket & Packing Inc. is an industrial supplier of fluid sealing & bolted joint assembly products.  The Borger, Texas-based company with four locations supplies fluid sealing products for industrial customers. Products include manufactured gaskets, pump and valve packings, mechanical seals, hydraulics, o-rings, lubrication equipment, metal and concrete repair equipment, industrial bolting, and corrosion prevention supplies. The company also sells, rents, calibrates, and repairs torque equipment for bolted joint assemblies.

As an independent and globally positioned supplier,  Elring Klinger is a powerful and reliable partner to the automotive industry. Be it a car or commercial vehicle, an optimized combustion engine, hybrid technology, or electric motor – they offer innovative solutions for all types of drive system in-passenger cars and commercial vehicles. They also make a commitment to making a contribution to sustainable mobility.

Transaction Director Luis Vinals stated, “This transaction demonstrates Benchmark International’s global capabilities, and the quality of its creative marketing strategies to identify buyers for our clients’ businesses.  We are excited to see our client's legacy in the capable hands of such a reputable firm and look forward to their continued success.”

Benchmark International is proud to announce the acquisition of Cello-Wrap Printing, Inc. by Cello-Wrap Packaging, Inc. The Benchmark International team worked diligently on behalf of Cello-Wrap Printing and was a resource for the transaction through the closing date.   Both the seller and buyer have already indicated that the integration has been smooth, and we anticipate maintaining the relationship with Cello-Wrap Packaging, Inc. as we continue to work on relevant mandates. 

Cello-Wrap Printing, Inc. is a three-generation family business located in Farmersville, Texas.  The company is a full-service flexographic printing company that offers printing, lamination, and slitting services utilizing polypropylene, cellophane, and foil as substrates.  The company primarily serves the food packaging industry and has been in operation for over 60 years.

Cello-Wrap Packaging, Inc. is Southwest Michigan's premier provider of flexible packaging serving customers with diverse product lines and evolving needs.  CPI was founded half a century ago as a plastic bag manufacturer for parts to the Detroit automotive industry.  They are now a leading BRC certified manufacturer of plastic bags and flexible packaging serving a variety of industries, with an emphasis on the food-retail sector.

The Benchmark International team used its vast array of resources and experience to help facilitate a transaction structure that allowed for both the buyer and seller to come to terms.  This included a carve-out of real estate and ensuring that the seller and their family was taken into consideration as part of a respectful and considerate transition of the business.

Deal Associate, JP Santos commented, “The Benchmark team is excited for what the future holds for Mr. Whitaker, our client, and the new ownership of Cello-Wrap. Both parties were aligned in their desire to ensure the continued success of the business, and we are pleased that an equitable transaction was agreed upon and executed successfully.” 

Entering into a merger or acquisition is one of the most important decisions a business owner can make, so finding the right M&A advisory firm is equally important. In the news, we frequently hear about massive M&A deals happening between big corporations. Big investment banks typically broker these large-scale deals. These same banks usually cannot be bothered to represent companies in the lower to middle markets because it’s not enough of a moneymaker for them.

Why Do I Need an M&A Advisor?

While you are an expert in your area of business, you likely do not have access to the connections and experience to identify opportunities that will result in the best strategic M&A solution. Partnering with an M&A expert will afford you many advantages. Selling a company is a complicated process and you will be relieved by how much they will tend to the many details and constant requests. A high quality M&A firm will:

• Have established networks that will get you access to the right type of buyers.
• Be skilled at managing expectations on both sides.
• Know how to improve your business and market it appropriately.
• Maintain the highest levels of confidentiality throughout the process.
• Know the right timing for taking a business to market based on experience in that sector.
• Appoint legal and financial services where needed.
• Perform comprehensive due diligence and data management.
• Conduct extensive negotiation and create a competitive bidding environment.
• Finalize a fair and premium valuation of the business to get you maximum value.
• Structure the transaction in terms of legal issues, payments, contracts, shareholders, debt restructuring, warranties, and indemnities.
• Keep you informed at all stages of a deal while keeping you out of unnecessary minutia.
• Assist with any necessary strategic decisions regarding integration, employees, timing, and announcements.

Finding Quality M&A Representation

As an owner of a small to mid-size business, where do you start when you are seeking M&A representation? After all, this is a major life decision and you absolutely want to get it right. M&A advisory services range from big investment banks to small boutique firms. You need to assess what is right for you in several aspects. These are some key considerations for your search:

• Many M&A advisory firms do not have varied expertise that spans local, regional and global levels. Look for a firm that will expand your options through the farthest geographical reach.
• It’s okay to be discerning. Talk to multiple firms and create a shortlist. This is going to be a long process so you should feel comfortable and have a liking for the people you are working with, while you should also feel confident in their abilities to get the deal done right.
• Study the reputations of the M&A firms and look for one that is well known for getting maximum value in deals. Look at what types of deals they have done in the past and if their experience is applicable to your business regarding markets, products, services, and regions? Also, seek out any available testimonials from their clients and look for a firm that has proven strong relationships.
• Pay close attention to the initial discussions you have with them. Do they seem aligned with your goals and motivated to get you exactly what you want or do they seem stuck on going their own direction? You want your M&A advisors to be as aligned as possible with your vision and aspirations for the future. You should feel confident that they are in your corner and not just there to make a buck.
• Assess their ability to create a competitive bidding scenario among multiple parties. Are they known for doing this? Do they have a large enough network and the right resources to make it happen?
• Consider how their fees are structured. Some firms may take a percentage based on deal size. Some may have upfront fees, monthly fees, and registrations fees. You don’t want to be met with surprise costs. Make sure they are transparent about their fees and that their justification for them makes sense. While you do not want to get ripped off, you should also keep in mind that selling your business is a once in a lifetime opportunity and you want to get it right, so this probably isn’t the time to cheap out.
• Look for an M&A advisor that you know will work with you as a true partner. A good firm will offer you constant engagement and welcome active contributions from you. They will make sure you do not miss any details and that you never feel left in the dark. They will also make sure that zero communications are sent to a buyer without your consent and input.
• Make sure you are getting an M&A advisor and not just a business broker. A broker is less likely to offer a comprehensive partnership that details long-term plans and integration strategies that are important to the process.

Are You Ready to Sell?

If you are seeking an M&A partner, we kindly ask that you include Benchmark International in your search. We believe that our award-winning team can offer you all the qualities you desire while getting you the most value possible for your company. We look forward to hearing from you.

Suntech Electrical Contractors, Inc. (Suntech), a Florida company that engaged Benchmark International to market and facilitate the transaction of the business with investors Stanoy Tassev and Rocco Reffie.

Suntech was founded in 2003 by Tom Czajkowski. Suntech is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in large commercial projects. The company provides hardwire electrical services and improves electrical efficiency for a wide variety of industries. Suntech also provides electrical code compliance services.

Regarding Benchmark International’s services, Mr. Czajkowski shared, “From the initial meeting with Benchmark [International] and through the entire process of preparing all the documentation, keeping me informed of progress, reviewing the letters of intent and the final closing, I was confident I was receiving excellent advice and guidance. Thank you to the Benchmark [International] team.”

According to updated state filings, officers of the company are now Mr. Tassev as President and Treasurer, Mr. Czajkowski as Vice President, and Mr. Reffie as Secretary. With backgrounds in electric power and services, the Suntech investment provides Mr. Tassev and Mr. Reffie expansion in the electrical contracting space.

Nick Woodyard, Transaction Associate at Benchmark International was engaged throughout the transaction, from client on boarding all the way through to the successful closing. Nick commented, “The Suntech team was very focused. They moved quickly throughout the process, which led to a timely closing. We wish both parties all the best in their new partnership.”

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction between Seltech, Inc. and Hatfield and Company.

Seltech specializes in engineering and industrial equipment sales. They specifically focus on instrumentation and process control, environmental monitoring, and filtration systems.  Seltech began in Tulsa, Oklahoma as a manufacturer’s representative firm and became a region wide wholesale provider of engineering and industrial equipment.

Benchmark International proved its value by 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.

Deal Associate, Amy Alonso commented, “Benchmark International added value by negotiating this deal.  We saw throughout the entire process that the buyer, Hatfield and Company, was a perfect fit who stood to benefit greatly from the experience, industry knowledge, and high quality service that they would gain from the existing owner. With this knowledge, the team was able to negotiate a deal that would allow for the existing owner to successfully transition the business to a capable buyer.  We wish Seltech, Inc. and Hatfield and Company the best of luck in their future endeavors.”

More often than not, the topic "asset vs share sale" has been discussed and debated at length. Although there are some aspects to consider, that could be beneficial to both parties and solely for the benefit of the other. Below are a few aspects to consider when deciding on a share/asset sale:

Sale of shares transaction:

In layman's terms, a buyer would be acquiring the incorporated business. This would include the assets and liabilities, goodwill, and inherent aspects of the business that would not have been capitalised.

The valuing of any business can prove to be a particularly complicated exercise. There are various aspects to consider as well as some key financial indicators. There may be sound reasons as to why specific objectives were not met in the past, but it is important that the buyer is aware of these permutations and understands the reasoning behind it. Likewise, a buyer would also be able to see opportunity/value in certain revenue streams, whereby the seller has been unable to secure orders in the past due to a variety of reasons. In a South African environment, Black Economic Empowerment status, vendor registration with key customers, integrated systems and technology, etc. are all aspects considered as intangibles and have been proven very difficult to value.  These are often subject to interpretation and most of the time the buyer would find reasons to reduce the company's value, purely because of personal interpretations and assumptions made.

In many cases, all shareholders are not always amenable to selling their share portion, as they might have alternative motives or plans for the business. To reach a successful outcome, it is important that all key stakeholders reach a consensus from the onset of the overall strategy and growth plan that they would like to achieve. The Articles of Association and/or the Shareholder Agreement may restrict shareholders from selling their shares.

Third party approval of the transaction is sometimes required, and this can often prove problematic and delay or even completely nullify the deal. An example would be a Landlord that often proves difficult when it comes to transferring the lease to a new owner. Their lawyers may require the buyer to come up with large deposits, provide personal guarantees, agree to a higher rental or require the new tenant to extend the lease term. This could prove detrimental to the transaction and there is a fine line to balancing the objectives of the respective parties.

From a seller's point of view:

• The sale: A share sale would be regarded as the simplest way in disposing of a business. Subject to any arrangement/warranty commitment agreed between the buyer and seller during an agreed period, the seller would be relieved from his/her obligation.
• Time: The seller may want to expedite the sale, however a purchaser will take his time when deciding on an acquisition. They would want to examine as much information as possible, extending the length of time to complete the transaction. Sale of share transactions typically takes longer to complete than the sale of asset transactions.

Furthermore, the buyer's legal team and advisors will insist on various protections for their client and would want the seller to provide warranties, guarantees and indemnities to limit any risk on behalf of the purchaser. The negotiating of these terms can also contribute to further delays in the successful completion of the transaction.

• Personal sureties: Over the years, the seller may have offered personal sureties to various parties.

When selling a business, these parties will generally not want to release or waive any sureties that are in place or transfer them to the new owner. These loans/liabilities will generally have to be cleared by the seller if he wants to be relieved of his/her responsibilities under the personal surety

If the seller fails to remove himself as a surety, he/she will put themselves in an onerous position and is exposed to risk in the sense that he/she has no control of the business, once sold.

• Professional fees: Share sales are more expensive when it comes to professional fees as there is usually more work involved, during the due diligence phase and the legal process.

From a buyer's point of view:

• Tax advantages: Should there be an accumulated loss existing in the company, those losses can usually be carried forward to be written off against future tax liabilities.
• Risk: Buying shares is a lot riskier for the buyer as they would be taking on all the business liabilities, and the true nature/cost of some of the liabilities may not be fully apparent until a year or two down the line. There could also be liabilities that the buyer had not discovered during the due diligence process.
• Transfer: Generally, customers and suppliers' relationships would transfer over seamlessly. The business continues operating without any major interruptions and by acquiring the shares, the buyers become owners of the assets (tangible & intangible) and associated liabilities.

Asset sale transaction:

As mentioned earlier, the buyer would prefer an asset sale as opposed to a share sale. This is purely because the buyer would have identified the key assets to produce future income, not take ownership of any associated liabilities, and would limit their exposure to unidentified liabilities held against the company.

A buyer would be able to write off wear and tear allowances against the assets purchased, thereby creating a favorable tax structure for the acquirer.

In terms of an asset valuation, this can also prove to be very complicated as there are a couple of methods of determining asset value, with the following methodologies applied:

• Value in use
• 2nd hand value
• Book value
• Replacement value
• Expected useful life (Overall state of assets)

A buyer would normally dictate the method to be used, however there must be a consensus between the seller and the buyer when determining a value.

A buyer would typically drive an asset value down as far as possible, but would need to substantiate this together with independent valuations, market trends and foreseeable production. Similarly, the seller would like to ensure his value is protected and supported by trade history and sound future projections.

Intangible assets such as patents, trademarks and customers lists are always difficult to value. However, when they are backed with a legal document that helps create barriers to entry or where a  service level agreements have customers tied in with long-term contracts, this assists the buyer in determining value and alleviates the seller from encouraging the buyer.

From a seller's point of view:

• Better negotiating power: As buyers prefer to buy assets, the seller can often negotiate to get a higher net benefit for himself under an asset sale than a share sale. The seller is taking on the responsibility (and cost) of clearing the liabilities and would therefore require a higher reward.
• Quicker sale: As there is less due diligence required for the buyer to perform in an asset sale, the transaction can often be completed more quickly.
• Retained assets: The seller can choose which of his assets will be sold and which will be retained.
• Taxation: Sellers will be exposed to CGT as well as withholding tax.

From a buyer's point of view:

• The due diligence process is less cumbersome and far easier; Assets still need to be thoroughly assessed and the true value of the assets needs to be determined. However, less emphasis needs to be placed on creditors, as these assets will be unencumbered, once sold.
• Tax advantages: The buyer will in many cases be able to attribute the purchase price as the base cost of the new asset, and accordingly be able to claim wear and tear allowances against a greater amount.

When the buyer purchases assets from the seller's company, they may agree on a value for the entire set of assets, however the assets could later be revalued, once recorded in the books of the acquirer.

• Loss of customers: It is important to effectively communicate to all customers the change of control and ensure there is minimal disruption to any client relationships.
• Suppliers: The same applies to suppliers, and the sale needs to be effectively communicated with each supplier to ensure that critical relationships are not hindered.
• Assets transferred: Where there are numerous individual assets - there are different routes to securing the title and can prove to be a time-consuming exercise. For example, the transfer of a licence works differently than the transfer of a lease, which works differently than the transfer of patents.

For a variety of legal, accounting and tax reasons, some deals make more sense as share deals while others make more sense as asset deals. Often, the buyer will prefer an asset sale while the seller will prefer a share sale. The decision on which route to go will be imperative and forms as the crux of the matter for every negotiation required to conclude a transaction successfully.

Benchmark International is delighted to announce the transaction between training and development provider, Apex and Rockpool Investments-backed Interact Training Group.

Established in 1993, Apex is a multi-award-winning training technology business, providing learning solutions that specialise in service, sales, account management, negotiation, management, coaching, and leadership. The business has offices in Falkirk, Plymouth, London and Dubai.

Interact Training Group is a family owned business that was founded in 1994 to help organisations identify performance improvements and create interventions to drive those improvements. Rockpool invested in Interact Training Group through a management buy-in in March 2018 and has looked to drive both organic and acquisitive growth for the business.

The acquisition will allow Interact Training Group to continue its plans to build a UK-based technology training group.

Benchmark International has successfully facilitated the transaction between Becker Communications, Inc. DBA BCI Integrated Solutions and Midwest Alarm Company, Inc.

BCI Integrated Solutions is a Florida-based company celebrating 20 years in service. They offer integrated solutions in security, audiovisual, fire & life safety, data & network cabling, and healthcare communications. The company mainly services markets in the following sectors: corporate, education, entertainment, healthcare, hospitality, sports venues, and housing.

Grant Becker, President of BCI Integrated Solutions commented, “Benchmark International’s team was great to work with. From on-boarding through close, there was always someone to talk with that was extremely knowledgeable and had my best interest in mind. I would highly recommend Benchmark International for anyone selling their business.”

Midwest Alarm Company, Inc. is based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and they are experts in life safety integration solutions. The company works primarily with contractors, building owners, property managers, and facilities directors to design and implement reliable life safety solutions. They are the largest notifier distributor in North America and have seven locations location the Midwest.

Regarding the transaction, Transaction Director Leo VanderSchuur at Benchmark International commented, “We are glad to have helped BCI secure a buyer and deal that achieved their objectives. It was a pleasure supporting their team throughout the transaction. We wish both businesses ongoing success and continued profitable growth.”

Benchmark International is delighted to announce the sale of managed IT services provider, Pebble IT, to internet service provider, Optimity.

Pebble IT offers a vast array of flexible IT services to clients deriving from a range of sectors, such as branding and design, market research, recruitment and architecture. The company has grown revenues 94% over the last five years and has key partners including Google, Microsoft, Cisco and Sophos.

Optimity Limited is a leading London-based connectivity, IT, and managed services provider. Backed by FPE Capital, a growth focused private equity investor in UK mid-market companies, Optimity has transformed London’s high-speed connectivity market by providing a unique alternative to fibre connectivity and has since extended its product set into a full IT service for smart campus and workplace environments.

The acquisition will help Optimity to accelerate strong organic growth in managed services and in the provision of smart, secure and intelligent IT solutions for campus and workplace environments, and will strengthen the services Optimity provides to existing customers.

Benchmark International has successfully facilitated the transaction between Aventura Magazine, asset of Stern Bloom Media, Inc. (“Stern Bloom”) and Palm Beach Media Group (“Palm Beach Media”).

Stern Bloom is an integrated print publishing company in Hallandale Beach, Florida. Its flagship lifestyle magazine, Aventura has established itself within South Florida as the source for entertaining editorial, exciting layouts, and high visibility for advertisers.

The Palm Beach Media Group is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hour Media. Hour Media Group headquartered in Troy, Michigan, is recognized as an influential publisher of city, regional, and custom publications. The marquee titles include: Hour Detroit, Minnesota Monthly, and Sacramento Magazine. The company has offices in Michigan, California, Florida, and Alabama. This acquisition fits well with Hour Media’s strategic growth plan.

David Bloom, Partner of Stern Bloom Media, stated, “We feel that Palm Beach Media Group is the perfect organization to honor our brand and elevate our legacy far into the future.” He also commented, “Choosing to partner with Benchmark International was a great decision.”

“Aventura magazine is a 20-year success story,” said John Balardo, President of Palm Beach Media Group and its parent, Hour Media. “This acquisition represents an ideal opportunity to extend our current roster of lifestyle, design, and custom publications into the greater Miami market.”

Regarding the deal, Transaction Director Leo VanderSchuur at Benchmark International commented, “It was a pleasure to represent Stern Bloom Media in this strategic transaction. On behalf of Benchmark International, we wish both parties continued success.”

Benchmark International has successfully facilitated the transaction of Professional Development Psycle (PTY) LTD t/a Dale Carnegie Training.

Dale Carnegie & Associates is a global training organisation established in the USA in 1912 by the company’s namesake Mr. Dale Carnegie; a prolific author and public speaker, widely considered to be the greatest pioneer of the self-development field. The company now operates as a franchise in over 76 countries around the world.

Our client, Professional Development Psycle (PTY) LTD & Professional Development Psycle KZN (PTY) LTD t/a Dale Carnegie Training are a Southern African franchisee, offering Dale Carnegie certified training to a blue-chip client base. At its core, the company gives individuals the critical skills needed to live, lead, sell and present successfully. In so doing, these individuals take command of their personal and work lives and are more intentional in how they influence relationships, becoming more effective at home and work.

The buyer is a private equity company with a strong focus on transformation through social up lifting, including education and training. Dale Carnegie’s effective training methodology underpins the dynamic South African training team which will continue to form part of the company’s ongoing success. 

The CEO of Dale Carnegie Training Gauteng & Kwa-Zulu Natal, Mr. Neville De Lucia said, “With zero experience in buying or selling businesses, it was nice to know that there was someone in my corner that could give me guidance. Being in the soft skills business, I tend to emphasise the personal side of the relationship. This is great if it serves you, but not so good if the hard data is what needs to be emphasised. Benchmark guided us on how to leverage the softer issues and coached us on the harder, more data driven decisions that needed to be made. This was overall a win-win engagement. The transition process is more meaningful between us as incumbents and the new owners as a result of how the negotiations had taken place between the parties involved.” 

Benchmark International Transaction Director, Johann Haasbroek commented, “The deal concluded represents a great result for our client. Not only have we secured a private equity buyer that has a vested interest and passion for people training and transformation space ,but at the same time provided the client with an exit strategy that enables them to take up a new international opportunity within the same franchise group of companies.” 

Benchmark International successfully facilitated the transaction between Dempsey, Dilling, & Associates to Thomas & Hutton. 

Thomas & Hutton (T&H), a Southeast-based, privately-held, professional consulting and engineering firm, is pleased to announce the addition of Smyrna, Tennessee-based Dempsey, Dilling & Associates (DDA) to the team. With offices in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Nashville, Tennessee, T&H’s addition of DDA will increase its presence throughout middle Tennessee. The combination was effective February 1 and DDA will operate under the Thomas & Hutton brand. Smyrna and Nashville office locations will combine in representing the T&H Nashville region, and will be well positioned to provide more municipal services in Tennessee.

On growing the Nashville region, Regional Director Travis Todd says, “Our team in Nashville has been steadily growing since our opening three years ago. We’ve been fortunate to work on quality projects with top tier clients all over Middle Tennessee. The addition of DDA only serves to make us even stronger in the region with additional resources and expertise to continue serving our clients well.”

Jerome Dempsey, PE, serving in his new role as a T&H Principal with a primary focus on client service in Tennessee, states, “It was evident from the beginning of our discussions that T&H embraced the same philosophy as DDA in providing quality based professional services to clients, while also focusing on the community and personal growth of its employees. Our combined expertise will provide a broader range of professional services to our clients, while maintaining the personal client relationships. We are thrilled to be part of Thomas & Hutton and can’t wait to see what the future holds for our new combined team.”

During its 74-year history, Thomas & Hutton has provided water and wastewater services across the southeast. The addition of DDA’s expertise provides the growing company additional skilled workforce and strengthens the services offered by T&H’s Water & Wastewater department, especially in the surface water treatment arena.

Formed in 2004, DDA provides consulting engineering services for municipalities and utility districts throughout Tennessee. These services cover the full spectrum of needs for municipalities, including water, wastewater, stormwater drainage, roadway, recreational facilities, municipal buildings, bridge replacements, GIS/GPS mapping, and environmental related projects.

Brad Dilling, PE, serving as a T&H Principal and Project Manager/Group Leader says, “We are extremely excited about the synergy between our companies, our people, and our cultures. The Nashville area is rapidly growing, and we see this partnership opportunity as one that will help meet and exceed our clients’ needs throughout Middle Tennessee.”

Thomas & Hutton operates in nine regions across four states. An established and well-respected leader in providing professional consulting and comprehensive engineering and related services, Thomas & Hutton looks forward to continuing its legacy of providing engineering and design solutions to a diverse group of public and private clients.

With the addition of the DDA team, Thomas & Hutton CEO Samuel McCachern states, “On behalf of T&H, we are excited about our growing team. Jerome and Brad have a successful practice built on long-term relationships. Together, our combined relationships and expertise will add value and benefit to our clients as we continue to expand service capabilities in markets throughout the southeastern United States.”

Tyrus O’Neill, Managing Partner at Benchmark International added, “Everyone here at Benchmark International was very excited to see this deal close. Thomas & Hutton is a great reputable firm which aligns well with Dempsey, Dilling & Associates. Jerome and Brad will be in good hands moving forward, and we wish the best for all parties involved in the deal.”

Benchmark International successfully facilitated the transaction between Industrial Applications to Rogers & Morgan in Knoxville, Tennessee. 

Industrial Applications (“IA”), is a Knoxville-based sole proprietorship with a rich history dating back to 1938 when it was first established by G.W. Sutton, a retired engineer. The current form of IA is a specialized steam distributor focusing on equipment distribution, systems integration, ground support and engineering conservation control. IA offers a wide variety of products including steam traps, pumps, control valves, process valves, meters, coils, skid mounted process systems, as well as consulting and troubleshooting for independent contracts and services.

Benchmark International worked alongside Bob and Joy Sutton, the third-generation owners of IA, to plan and execute a successful acquisition process. The buyer, Rogers & Morgan, was identified as a prominent organization and a strong candidate for a synergistic acquisition.

Rogers & Morgan is a manufacturers representative firm specializing in engineered equipment for air. The company has a proud tradition of servicing the greater Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky area since 1956. Rogers & Morgan focuses on best-in-class customer service and solving low-pressure air problems with quality products by applying expertise and experience in the field.   

Bob Sutton, owner of IA stated about the transaction, “I would like to send a special thank you to the deal team at Benchmark International. I was skeptical when starting the process but they really found me a unicorn of a buyer that is a perfect fit for my company. We’re excited to start the next chapter and look forward to working with Rogers & Morgan.”

Tyrus O’Neill, Managing Partner at Benchmark International added, “Bob and Joy were wonderful clients and the team couldn’t be happier to see this deal close. The buyer aligns well with the organization and their values. We are happy to see this result for Bob and Joy but will miss having them as clients.”

Benchmark International is pleased to have successfully facilitated the acquisition of Local Bulk Haulage (PTY) Ltd by Leopard Line Haul (PTY) Ltd trading as Elite Line Haul.

Founded in 1995 by Peter Scholtz and Len Pretorius, Local Bulk Haulage (PTY) Ltd is a logistics company delivering specialised primary chemicals and liquid bulk commodities from the point of supply to the end-user effectively and efficiently. LBH has grown into a significant asset over the years servicing an enviable customer based comprised of blue-chip chemical and commodity entities.

Elite Line Haul, a subsidiary of Elite Truck Hire, is an innovative logistics company servicing clients across South Africa. As an established Level 2 B-B BEE Contributor, Elite Line Haul specialises in both short-term and long-term local distribution and line haul contracts. Over the years the company has developed a strong presence in the transport industry, operating from its headquarters in Elandsfontein, and ancillary branches in Durban, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

The transaction was strategic in nature and represents Elite’s diversification into liquid bulk haulage. As a consequence of the transaction, Elite Line Haul will now boast the largest fleet of Volvo trucks and trailers in South Africa.  

Commenting on this, Andre Bresler of Benchmark International South Africa said: “On behalf of everyone at Benchmark International, we would like to wish both parties every success for the future.”

Aquatic Foods (PTY) LTD was established in 1996 to service leading restaurants, hotels, caterers and wholesalers by supplying live, fresh and frozen seafood on demand. After securing a broad customer base in South Africa and earning a reputation as a reliable and sustainable supplier, Aquatic Foods (PTY) LTD made the decision to expand their product offering to existing customers, using their established distribution network.

This led to the incorporation of National Foods (PTY) LTD in 2012, which distributes chilled and frozen products such as meat, dairy and pastry products.

Aquatic Foods (PTY) LTD and National Foods (PTY) LTD have successfully established themselves as a leading food services organization with a majority market share in the Western Cape. The company’s modern cold storage facilities and sophisticated stock control system enable it to hold significant inventory, thereby reducing stock risks and ensuring reliable and consistent delivery of high-quality products.

Michael Niese, founder and shareholder of both Aquatic Foods and National Foods, commented on the transaction saying, “Considering the transaction size and the respective intricacies thereof it was concluded exceptionally well without any difficulties. This I attribute to the skill and productivity of Benchmark International and the spirit of Econo Foods.”

The acquirer, Econo Foods (PTY) LTD boasts a nationwide chain of 18 outlets specializing in frozen and chilled food products. With over 100 refrigerated trucks operating among their five distribution centers, they successfully supply the wholesale and foodservice trades with frozen, chilled, and grocery lines throughout the Free State, Gauteng, Northern Cape, North West, and Lesotho regions.

Pleased with the outcome, Henk Smith of Econo Foods (PTY) LTD said “It was a pleasure to work with the Benchmark International team.”

Tiaan Smit, Transaction Director at Benchmark International added, “Throughout the process, both our client and the acquirer were exceptionally responsive, thorough, and professional, resulting in discussions progressing quickly and delivering a fantastic and timely result for both parties. I am delighted that our client was able to monetize the great business he has built while handing the keys over to an organization that will carry on his legacy as Econo Foods grows the business to the next level.”

On behalf of everyone at Benchmark International, we would like to wish all parties every success for the future.

Benchmark International facilitated the transaction between Angelo Superior Services, Inc. to Affordable Services West Corp.

Superior Services, Inc., is a Texas-based corporation established in 2002 by Monty Greathouse.  Over the past eighteen years, Superior Services has grown from a plumbing start-up to a plumbing and HVAC entity.  The company became an established entity with an exceptional reputation for high-quality work and has shaped the plumbing and HVAC landscape of San Angelo, Texas and the surrounding region.

Benchmark International proved its 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.

Monty Greathouse, President of Angelo Superior Services, Inc. mentioned, “Benchmark International’s team delivered on finding a buyer for my business that would carry-on the high level of service that our customers have come to expect as well as taking care of my team after the sale.”

Scott Spencer, President of Affordable Services Corp added in reference to working with Benchmark International, “I recently acquired a business in San Angelo, Texas and was assisted by Amy Alonso at Benchmark.  I found her to be very responsive and diligent with all inquiries and requests and would recommend their services.  Often times the Broker plays the mediator during the entire process to help both parties get through all the obstacles. I highly recommend Amy.”

Deal Associate, Amy Alonso commented, “Benchmark International added value by negotiating this deal.  We saw throughout the entire process that the buyer, Affordable Services West Corp, was a perfect fit who stood to benefit greatly from the experience, industry knowledge and high-quality service that they would gain from the existing owner. With this knowledge, the team was able to negotiate a deal that would allow for the existing owner to successfully transition the business to a capable buyer.  We wish Angelo Superior Services and Affordable Services West Corp the best of luck in their future endeavors.”

Benchmark International has advised water technology expert, Veolia Water Technologies UK (VWT UK), on the acquisition of water and wastewater treatment specialist, Biochemica Water.

VWT UK provides the complete range of services required to design, deliver, maintain, and upgrade water and wastewater treatment facilities and systems for industrial clients and public authorities. By optimising both processes and monitoring, VWT UK helps clients reduce their water footprint whilst generating considerable savings in energy and chemical consumption.

Biochemica Water is a national water and wastewater treatment specialist. Its key service areas include Legionella control, monitoring and management services, wastewater treatment, boiler water treatment, cooling water treatment and chemical supply. The company’s unique Total Water Management approach – encompassing influent and effluent process requirements – accurately diagnoses water and wastewater operating issues and delivers the most appropriate and cost-effective solutions.

The move will see the organisation become one of the UK’s leading end-to-end suppliers to the municipal and industrial sectors – one of the few genuinely able to provide a complete technologies and services solution.

Benchmark International has successfully facilitated the transaction of Osborn Equipment Sales, Inc. to Still Holding Company. Osborn Equipment Sales, Inc. has been in business for over 60 years and serves as a manufacturer’s representative of dry process material handling equipment to customers located within Oklahoma, Western Arkansas, and the Texas Panhandle.

Still Holding Company is owned by Roy Still, an individual with an M&A advisory background, who currently owns a diverse portfolio of businesses in the Tulsa, Oklahoma region, including funeral homes in the area.

Vice President, Keith Garoutte of Osborn Equipment Sales, Inc. commented, “We are a 60- year-old company located in Oklahoma. After 40 plus years of owning the company, my business partner and l were thinking about retirement. We were contacted by Benchmark International wanting to know if we were in the market to sell our company. It was perfect timing for both of us. Benchmark International sent a gentleman to meet with us and after several phone calls we had reached an agreement to have Benchmark International solicit our company for sale in March 2019. We supplied Benchmark International with all the information they had requested, and they proceeded to market our company. Benchmark International found several companies interested in purchasing our company and after only a few months we were in negotiations. We were finally able to close and collect our money on January 6, 2020. Benchmark International did an outstanding job in marketing our company. We were very impressed with their sales team and their sales and negotiation knowledge. Their sales experience made selling our company very easy and without headaches. I would definitely recommend Benchmark International if you want a professional and aggressive sales team to sell your business.”

J.P. Santos, Associate at Benchmark International added, “Randy and Keith were a pleasure to work with and the Benchmark International team is excited that we were able to play a role in the successful sale of their business. From the beginning of the sales process, Randy and Keith were looking for a buyer who could continue their legacy of decades of high quality service, as well as, meet their goals from the sale as they look towards their future endeavors. Roy Still was able to accomplish both of those objectives and the company looks to continue its success under his stewardship.”

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the transaction between Laser Trader and MBA Engineering.

Laser Trader is an importer and distributor of high-tech laser cutting, cladding and welding equipment to UK customers in sectors including aerospace, research and heavy manufacturing. The company is the sole distributor in the UK and ROI for several world leading manufacturers of laser processing and diagnostic equipment in addition to retailing laser optics and a range of consumables and non-genuine parts.

MBA Engineering was founded in 2009 and sells Kimla fibre lasers, second hand Bystronic lasers, spare parts and consumables, as well as offering services such as breakdown assistance, preventative maintenance, customer training, machine moves, and installations.

The deal will allow MBA Engineering to access key distribution agreements with European manufacturers.

Benchmark International has advised on the transaction between automatic door installation, servicing and maintenance company, Action Doors, and trusted global partner for premium access solutions and services, Dorma UK.

Action Doors, established in 1996, is a provider of maintenance, servicing and installation of both automatic and manual door entry systems, with offices in Hertfordshire and Kent.

Dorma UK is a provider of innovative and reliable access and security solutions for hotels, shops, sporting venues, airports, hospitals, homes and offices. It was established in 1978 and has central offices located in Tiverton, Devon, where the company assembles its mechanical cylinder ranges, and Hitchin, Hertfordshire. The company is a subsidiary of the Dormakaba Group, who, since the merger of Dorma and Kaba in 2016, is one of the top three companies engaged in access control and security solutions on the global market.

The transaction represents a strategic acquisition for the companies, allowing Dorma UK to expand its current service offering.

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the transaction between Devon-based developer of testing equipment, Easytesters, and Winchester-based pharmaceuticals and manufacturing company, Biopharma Process Systems (BPS).

Easytesters is an inventor and developer of unique HACCP testing equipment specifically designed to prevent hazards and contamination in liquid food processing. Its solutions are environmentally friendly and are renowned for reducing or eliminating downtime for food processors and manufacturers.

BPS is a leading supplier of equipment to the pharmaceutical, biotech and process industries in the UK, Ireland and France, with a specialisation in freeze drying, solvent removal/evaporation and high-pressure homogenisation technologies.

It is part of the Biopharma Group which is made up of Biopharma Technologies and Biopharma Technologies France. It also has a division in the USA (BTLLC) that works in close association with its product partners, SP Scientific.

Benchmark International has successfully facilitated the transaction of Technology Navigators LP and Re-Sourcing Holdings. Technology Navigators LP, is a technical staffing firm that concentrates on recruiting individuals for contract, project, and permanent placement. 

Re-Sourcing Holdings (Re-Sourcing) is a leading provider of strategic staffing, consulting, and direct hire solutions, focusing on Compliance, Legal, Information Technology, Finance & Accounting, and HR positions. The company serves clients through five premium brands: JW Michaels & Co., Compliance Risk Concepts, ExecuSource, Perennial Resources International, and Partnership Employment with Technology Navigators now becoming the sixth brand. Founded in 2003, the company is headquartered in New York City with 15 offices in nine markets. Re-Sourcing’s differentiated operating partner model has enabled a strong focus on building direct relationships with clients to bolster retention and deepen understanding of client needs.

In reference to the transaction, Robert Taylor, Partner of Technology Navigators LP, explained his experience with Benchmark International, “We could not have completed the deal without Benchmark International.  Their team was attentive from day one and made sure that all our questions were answered throughout the entire process. The process of finding the right partner and making a deal is like a rollercoaster moving at 100 mph but Benchmark International knew how to navigate the obstacles we encountered and helped us get the deal across the line.”

Allen Goldsmith, a Partner of Technology Navigators LP, mentioned that “Benchmark’s knowledge of the domestic and international markets was key to finding the right buyer that understood our unique business culture.  Benchmark International was there every step of the way and truly got to know how our business operated.  In short, they truly partnered with us to ensure we received the best deal the market could offer.”

Luis Vinals, Transaction Director at Benchmark International added, “Technology Navigators is a great example of how attractive the market has become for B2B services.  Our clients, Robert and Allen were engaged throughout the entire process and fully understood our suggestions.  They were receptive and willing to go the extra mile alongside us to ensure that their deal got done.  All in all, Robert and Allen’s collaboration enabled our team to find the right partner for the future of Technology Navigators.”

Benchmark International has advised on the transaction between chartered surveyors, Dunlop Heywood, and estate agents, The Leaders Romans Group.

Dunlop Heywood is a chartered surveying practice specialising in rating consultancy and property management with offices in London, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and Belfast. Clients include Asda, Doncaster Rovers, Bradford City, Travis Perkins, Leeds Bradford and Dublin airports, and charities.

It is a renowned property consultancy that was established by founding partner Stuart Hicks in 2008, but the origins of the business can be traced back to 1832.

Leaders Romans Group is one of the UK’s largest property services groups following the merger of Leaders, Romans and Boyer in 2016 and is backed by leading private equity firm, Bowmark Capital. Starting in residential sales and lettings, the company has since expanded to offer a whole host of property services from planning to financial services and corporate property management. The company has 160 branches across the country and employs over 2,100 people.

Post-sale, Stuart and the senior team will remain with the business, which will continue to trade as Dunlop Heywood.

The senior teams at Leaders Romans Group and Dunlop Heywood are now working on an investment and development plan, which will ensure that Dunlop Heywood maintains its position as the leading business rates consultancy in the UK.

Catastrophe Cleaning & Restoration Co, Inc. (“CATCO”) has been acquired by Interstate Restoration. CATCO is a 50-person company that has operated for over 35 years providing highly-skilled restoration and remediation expertise to residential, commercial, public, and industrial customers.

Former owner Michael Hammack will continue as President as he helps transition the firm.

Michael Hammack, President of CATCO commented, “Benchmark International and Robert West were very professional, knowledgeable, extraordinarily helpful, and extremely encouraging during the sales process.  Robert and his team ran a focused and competitive process resulting in a great cultural fit and financial outcome.  CATCO looks forward to many years of success under the ownership of FirstService | Interstate Restoration.”

Interstate Restoration is an emergency response and general restoration contractor founded in 1998.  With more than 50 locations spread across the US and Canada, they have a proven record of providing rapid disaster response in every corner of North America. Interstate is a subsidiary of FirstService Corporation (NASDAQ: FSV), a Canadian public property services company generating over $2B in annual revenue.

Tyrus O'Neill, Managing Partner at Benchmark International stated, “This was one of the more rewarding client relationships I have had the opportunity to build over my time with Benchmark International.  Our team being intimately involved with Michael and his company through marketing, deal negotiation, and financial due diligence afforded us the opportunity to stitch together a deal that made tremendous sense for the client in both a cultural and financial context.  He was able to monetize the great business he has built while also handing the keys over to an organization in Interstate that will genuinely carry on the legacy of CATCO as it continues to grow its presence.” 

Benchmark International has advised on the transaction between contract cleaning firm, Regency Cleaning Services, and national commercial cleaning contractor, Ecocleen Services.

Regency operates throughout Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, supporting more than 100 clients. The company’s team of 500 staff are responsible for delivering cleaning, waste management, porterage and maintenance services to a variety of private and public sector sites such as schools, nurseries, offices and car showrooms.

Ecocleen has more than 25 years’ experience of developing and implementing tailored commercial cleaning solutions. The franchise handles contracts of all sizes on behalf of more than 600 customers, servicing both single and multi-site operations on a local, regional and national basis.

Following the acquisition, Regency’s Managing Director, Darran Penny, will join Ecocleen as Commercial Director.

The successful takeover will enable Ecocleen to increase its presence within key sectors such as education and motor retail, while expanding its nationwide franchise network. Regency customers and staff also benefit with Ecocleen bringing its technological innovations and commitment to the environment to the combined operation.

Benchmark International has successfully facilitated a transaction between Pioneer Realty Capital, LLC and Luxon Realty Services. Pioneer Realty Capital is an Arlington, Texas-based business that provides underwriting services along with debt and equity brokerage, primarily for the development of commercial real estate.

Luxon Realty Services is an Austin-based real estate brokerage, property management, and advisory firm founded in 2006. The firm actively manages real estate assets and provides consulting and advisory services nationwide. The principals of the firm have over 20 years experience as a real estate professional, and has key relationships with national capital providers with whom they work hand-in-hand with to identify and execute on capital market opportunities with demonstrable growth characteristics.

J.P. Santos, Associate Director at Benchmark International shared, “Benchmark International’s Austin team enjoyed working with Charles Williams and the Pioneer Realty Capital team. We were able to work towards coming to terms that were ideal for Charles’ goals for his firm. This deal shows Benchmark’s dynamic market position and our understanding of the wants and needs of our clients and how to formulate a strategy that helps accomplish our clients' goals from the transaction. Charles was looking for a partner that could provide him a broader array of products and services to offer his existing clients as well as a means to obtain a new business. The team did a formidable job at negotiating a deal that would fit this objective and allow Charles several options regarding the long-term direction of Pioneer Realty Capital. Charles was a true professional to work with, and we are excited about what the future holds for Pioneer Realty Capital.”

Benchmark International is pleased to have successfully facilitated the acquisition of Biggie Best (Pty) Ltd to Coricraft (Pty) Ltd.

Biggie Best (Pty) Ltd is an instantly recognised brand active in the wholesale and retail of exclusive home décor textiles and homeware. The wholesale operation supplies fabric by the metre to independent decorators and shop owners, as well as, textiles and homeware to a select number of independent retailers. The retail operation comprises nine outlets offering fabric, homeware, and a make-to-order service in upmarket shopping precincts in the major cities of South Africa.

For more than 20 years, Coricraft (Pty) Ltd has been a preferred choice for exceptional value top-quality furniture. Over two decades, the brand has grown from a single store to a chain of almost 50 outlets in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana. The company boasts manufacturing facilities in both Cape Town and Johannesburg, where they manufacture a range of luxury couches. Beyond this substantial manufacturing presence lies a sophisticated retail infrastructure, with Coricraft stores located across the length and breadth of South Africa.

This transaction marks a new chapter for Biggie Best (Pty) Ltd as it finds a new home alongside one of the country's fastest-growing retail brands.

Commenting on this, Andre Bresler of Benchmark Corporate South Africa said: “It is a true privilege to have had a hand in the marriage of these iconic South African brands. This is a transaction that is a testament to the fact that good assets sell regardless of perceptions around the prevailing sector performance and macro-economic conditions.”

On behalf of everyone at Benchmark International, we would like to wish both parties every success for the future.

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the transaction between Manor Renewable Energy and a consortium of investors led by Moulton Goodies Limited and Castle Mill Equity Partners Limited. The transaction also involved Manor Marine, a wholly owned subsidiary of Manor Renewable Energy.

Manor Renewable Energy was founded in 2013 and is the leading provider in offshore temporary power and engineering solutions to the wind farm industry. Manor Marine, which began trading in 1991, provides vessel construction and maintenance services.

The deal facilitated the exit of a founder shareholder and provides backing for the team to continue its high-growth plan. Going forward, the investors will support the existing management team with strategic and commercial expertise as the business seeks to broaden its offering by investing in its operations and maintenance division.

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the transaction between Euro Business Solutions and Cloudstream Technology.

Euro Business Solutions is an IT support specialist established in 1997. It provides consultancy services and hardware and software sales to corporate clients. Services include various external managed services, consultancy work, written recommendations, data recovery and recycling.

Cloudstream, a division of the TechStream Group, is an innovative and diverse talent solutions provider, dedicated to providing advanced technology and transformation skills across consulting, start-up or enterprise environments. This represents a strategic acquisition for Cloudstream, as it allows the company to bolt-on Euro Business Solutions’ services to its own.

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the transaction between engineering and construction firms Circum and EA-RS Fire Engineering.

Circum designs, supplies, installs, commissions and maintains active fire protection systems including wet and dry sprinklers, wet and dry risers, hose reels, and gas and mist suppression systems.

EA-RS Fire Engineering provides a turnkey solution for clients’ fire safety and regulatory requirements. It is one of only five UK fire systems providers with the various accreditations to supply mechanical and electrical packages in one single client order.

This transaction is of a strategic nature, allowing EA-RS Fire Engineering to expand its current service offering and grow inorganically.

Benchmark International has advised on the transaction between bespoke software provider, Richlyn Systems, and Sheffield-based Pennine Holdings.

Established in 1983, Richlyn Systems is a specialist software and web developer, providing industry tailored software development, standalone software packages and contractual software maintenance to a diverse range of niche B2B clients in industries such as commercial property, health, manufacturing and distribution.

Pennine Holdings focuses on acquiring and developing IT related businesses with a view to creating synergies and improving performance.

Benchmark International has facilitated the transaction of BobCAD CAM, Inc. to Harris Computer Corporation.

BobCAD-CAM, Inc. based in Clearwater, FL, is a leader in CNC programming software for milling, turning, routing, and wire EDM. It combines CAD (computer-aided-design) and CAM (computer-aided-manufacture) functionality into a single interface. Through its proprietary software, the company provides manufacturers a powerful and easy to use CNC (computer numerical control) programming software.

Larry Pendleton, CEO of BobCAD Cam, Inc. commented regarding the transaction, “We are excited to enter this new phase of our company’s growth. We’re especially thankful to the entire Benchmark International team that supported us in the process. As our M&A advisors, they were extremely knowledgeable, thorough and professional during the entire transaction. The Benchmark International team helped us secure multiple offers from strategic, financial, domestic and international buyers, and we couldn’t have gotten this transaction done without them."

Harris Computer Corporation provides mission critical software solutions for utilities, healthcare, local governments, public safety, and schools throughout the U.S. and Canada. Harris has offices throughout North America. Harris is a wholly owned subsidiary of Constellation Software, Inc. CSI is a publicly traded company on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Trading symbol CSU.

This acquisition represents a tremendous opportunity for both businesses and their teams to strategically accelerate the rate of profitable growth.

Benchmark International's Transaction Director, Leo Vanderschuur commented, "It was a pleasure to represent BobCAD CAM in this transaction. Throughout the process, Larry and his team were exceptionally responsive, diligent, and professional. This acquisition represents a tremendous opportunity for both businesses and their teams to strategically accelerate the rate of profitable growth. On behalf of the numerous Benchmark International personnel that worked on this opportunity, we congratulate both teams on reaching this goal."