Blog

Impact of COVID on Lower Middle Market M&A

As we approach the end of 2020, the mergers and acquisitions market has started to pick up steadily, after a dramatic drop in late Spring and Summer.

How I Built and Sold My Business: Holly McWhorter, Founder of PLANT Apothecary, Shares Her Experience

At Hughes Klaiber we recently asked several clients who have successfully sold their businesses...

How I Built and Sold My Business: Belinda DiGiambattista, Founder of Butterbeans Kitchen, on Preparing for the Sale

We recently asked some friends and clients who have successfully sold their business to share lessons they learned as they navigated the process...

M&A in Housewares and Household Products Continues, Although Deal Volume is Down in 2020

In early 2020, mergers and acquisitions in housewares and household products sectors started strong, with the number of acquisitions, growth capital and venture capital...

Using an SBA Loan to Acquire A Business During COVID

Thanks to a provision of the CARES Act, borrowers who use Small Business Administration 7(a) loans to acquire a business...

Impact of COVID-19 on Lower Middle Market M&A

After several months of impact from COVID-19, the M&A market for companies in the $5 - $25 million revenue range is in flux.

Differences Between an SBA Disaster Loan and a Paycheck Protection Program Loan

There are now two major federally funded loan programs for business owners impacted by the COVID-19 crisis...

Financing and Loan Options to Weather Covid-19 Crisis

Over the past few days, we have been gathering information on financing and loan sources to help companies weather the Covid-19 crisis. Here are some general thoughts and recommendations. We will add to this as more information becomes available.

5 Experts Share 12 Key Takeaways on Exiting a Business

Our recent breakfast seminar, “Navigating the Path to a Successful Exit,” featured five experienced M&A professionals, who shared these important tips on how to prepare for and execute a successful sale.

ABG Print Acquired by Orianna Capital

We’re pleased to announce our client, ABG Print, has been acquired by Orianna Capital. Founded by Michael J. Mulligan in 1992, ABG Print provides investment banks, private equity groups, consulting companies, major brands, and other New York City organizations with quality printing services.

Which Is Best for Your Business – Strategic or Financial Buyer?

Entrepreneurs who sell their businesses generally run across two main types of acquirers: strategic buyers and financial buyers. As you approach the M&A process, it can be helpful to understand the general expectations and requirements of each; and to consider which type of buyer might present the best fit, given your business and your personal and financial goals.

Five Things to Consider Before You Start the M&A Process

If you are thinking of selling your business – now or sometime in the future – advance planning is key to help clarify your options, increase your valuation, and significantly improve your chances of successfully closing your transaction.

PLANT Apothecary Acquired by Rare Beauty Brands

We’re pleased to announce our client, PLANT Apothecary, has been acquired by Rare Beauty Brands.

Start With the End in Mind – and Build a Company You Can Sell

If you’re building a company, the decisions you make as you grow can directly impact value in a future sale. Planning for an exit or sale can help drive a premium valuation, and also help you build a stronger, more resilient business.

If Timing is Everything... When is the Best Time to Sell a Business?

Determining the optimal time to sell is a challenge faced by many entrepreneurs. There are three main factors to consider and balance when determining the best time to sell your business: your personal goals, the growth and financial performance of your business, and current economic conditions.

How Much is My Business Worth?

The most common way to value a privately held business is as a multiple of EBITDA. Learn more here…

Deal Killers... And How to Avoid Them

Almost every transaction to sell a business involves a few obstacles to navigate before reaching the finish line. However, careful planning can help overcome many common last-minute "deal killers," including these four:

Common Myths About Selling a Business

Here are a few misconceptions we often hear about selling a lower middle-market business, and why they don't ring true:

Maximizing the Selling Price of Your Business

Obtaining a professional business valuation is a critical first step, providing a formal estimate of value for the company, based on factors including the firm’s historical cash flow, balance sheet assets, trends, sales of similar businesses, and other tangible, measurable items.

Successfully Navigating the Due Diligence Phase

Buying or selling a business can be time-consuming and challenging. While every phase of a transaction has its own set of potential problems, the due diligence period can be especially daunting.

The Math of Valuation Multiples

Anyone who has considered buying or selling a lower middle market business quickly becomes familiar with the term “multiple of adjusted EBITDA,” or the concept that valuation is often based on a multiple of earnings.

Understanding Net Working Capital

When used properly, the net working capital (NWC) adjustment incorporates balance sheet fluctuations into the sale. But to avoid nasty last-minute misunderstandings or surprises, the buyer and seller need to understand and agree how net working capital will be addressed.