The first step is a exploratory interview In this meeting, we'll discuss your acquisition plans, wishes, and starting points. Based on this, we'll jointly determine the right approach and map out the possibilities.
Buying a business? Here's how it works!
Are you looking to buy a business? It's a big step in your entrepreneurial journey that requires a lot of preparation. A solid buyer's profile is essential. It forms the foundation of your search and helps you make the right choices. At Match Plan, we're here to guide you through every step of this process.
With over 30 years of experience and hundreds of successful acquisitions, we know the market inside and out. Our advisors will help you develop a search profile, approach potential candidates, and conduct a comprehensive analysis of the target company. This will give you insight into the opportunities and risks of your acquisition.
Together we work towards the only thing that matters: a successful takeover and the growth of your company!
Targeted search strategy
We start with a sharp search profile that matches your ambitions, industry and growth objectives.
Valuation and negotiation
We determine the value of the company and guide you in submitting an offer.
Advice on financing structures
This makes the acquisition feasible and strategically sound, with less pressure on your liquidity.
Why acquire a company?
Acquiring a company is a strategic decision that can offer significant benefits for both experienced and aspiring entrepreneurs. But what makes a business acquisition so attractive? Generally speaking, there are three main reasons for acquiring a company.
Strategic growth
A company acquisition is a powerful strategy for strengthening your market position. It offers the opportunity to increase your market share, improve your competitive position, and enter new markets. Moreover, you can expand your geographic reach and gain access to valuable technologies, patents, or specialized knowledge not available within your current organization.
An acquisition not only offers immediate benefits, but can also provide synergy benefits, such as more efficient processes and cost savings. For entrepreneurs who strive for rapid growth, an acquisition offers buy and build strategy Outcome. This proven concept combines the acquisition and integration of multiple companies, significantly accelerating growth and innovation.
Financial benefits
Financial considerations often play a significant role in a business acquisition. Achieving economies of scale allows you to reduce costs, increase profitability, and eliminate inefficiencies. By optimizing business processes and diversifying revenue streams, your company becomes less vulnerable to market fluctuations and other external risks.
For investors focused on financial returns, such as private equity firms and investment funds, a strategic acquisition can be particularly attractive. It offers the opportunity to significantly grow invested capital, especially in a favorable economic climate.
Start your entrepreneurship
For new entrepreneurs, a business acquisition is an excellent way to start with a solid foundation. You benefit from an existing customer base, experienced employees, and established business relationships. This significantly reduces the risks of starting a new business. There are several ways to achieve a business acquisition as a new entrepreneur:
Management buyout (MBO)
: It current management team takes over the company, which ensures continuity and retention of knowledge.
Management buy-in (MBI)
: External entrepreneurs or managers take over the company and bring new expertise and fresh ideas.
Family transfer
: In family businesses, the company is often passed on to the next generation, which guarantees family tradition and continuity.
Ready for the next step? Whether you want to grow your existing business, increase your financial returns, or get a flying start as an entrepreneur, a business acquisition offers unprecedented opportunities. With the right strategy and guidance, you'll take a solid step toward success. Our advisors are ready to guide you through this process.
Financing a business acquisition
The financing Acquiring a business is an essential step that provides certainty for both buyer and seller. By finding the right balance between equity and debt, you can optimize your return on investment. A common strategy is leveraged finance, where a significant portion of the acquisition is financed with debt. Here are some options:
Equity
: This includes capital you contribute yourself, such as personal funds or shareholder investments. Equity shows commitment and increases the chance of additional financingg.
Bank loans
: Traditional loans from major banks such as ING, Rabobank, or ABN AMRO generally offer low interest rates, ideal for minimizing financing costs.
Mezzanine financing
: A flexible hybrid financing option that offers higher limits than bank loans. This is often provided by private investors or specialized funds such as the Dutch Mezzanine Fund.
Combination financing
: By combining bank loans with mezzanine financing, you can finance a larger portion of the acquisition price and benefit from the advantages of both forms.
Vendor loan
: Hereby subordinated loan The seller provides financing to the buyer, which makes the transaction possible and complements other financing options.
Step-by-step plan for taking over a company
Acquiring a company is a complex process that requires careful planning. Below are the key steps for a successful acquisition:
Step 1: Determine acquisition strategy
The process begins with defining your acquisition strategy. You can handle the process yourself, which is particularly suitable for smaller transactions, or opt for guidance from an experienced M&A advisor. An advisor offers strategic advice, supports valuations and negotiations, and helps avoid emotional decisions.
Step 2: Create a profile sketch
If you don't have a takeover candidate yet, it is essential to have a detailed profile sketch To be drafted. This describes the type of company you are looking for, including sector, size, location, and cultural fit. This forms the basis for targeted searches.
Step 3: Select and approach candidates
Based on your profile, suitable candidates are selected through our network, databases, and market research. We approach potential clients discreetly and arrange introductory meetings. After signing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) we share additional information, such as a information memorandum.
Step 4: Valuation and negotiations
A valuation provides insight into the value of the company and forms the basis for a non-binding offer (NBO). This offer includes details such as the purchase price, terms and conditions, and future plans. Negotiations then begin, and we'll guide you through the process of achieving the best possible deal.
Step 5: Drafting contracts
In case of agreement, a Letter of Intent (LOI) This document establishes agreements regarding exclusivity, deadlines, and other important conditions. The LOI forms the basis for completing the process.
Step 6: Apply for acquisition financing
If necessary, financing will be arranged. We will prepare a financing memorandum We contact banks, alternative financiers, or private equity firms. As independent advisors, we choose the option that best suits your situation.
Step 7: Book review and closing
It book research (Due diligence) verifies the accuracy of the information provided. Based on the results, any final negotiations are conducted. A lawyer or attorney then draws up the final purchase agreement. At the closing, the formal transfer takes place at the notary's office, and you are officially the new owner.
Contact us to discuss your plans and together we will build a solid foundation for your future.
Payment methods for business takeovers
In a business acquisition, there are various ways to pay the purchase price, depending on the financial situation and agreements between buyer and seller:
Cash at closing
: The entire purchase price is paid in one lump sum upon transfer. This offers simplicity and clarity, but requires a significant capital investment.
Vendor loan
: The seller provides a loan for part of the purchase price. This reduces the buyer's financing needs and demonstrates confidence on the seller's part, but requires clear agreements regarding repayment and interest.
Earn-out arrangement
: Part of the purchase price depends on the future performance of the company with a earn-out arrangement. This spreads the risk and lowers the initial costs, but can be complex and lead to conflicts.
Phased takeover
: The company is being acquired in stages, which ensures a gradual transition and risk limitation. The disadvantage of the phased takeover is the complexity in governance during the transition period.
Tips for taking over a company
Acquiring a business is an intensive process. The following tips will increase your chances of a successful transaction:
Be realistic
: Keep emotions out of the process and critically assess the company's situation. This prevents wrong choices and helps you make rational decisions.
Conduct a thorough book review
: Investigate all legal, financial, and tax aspects of the business to identify potential risks and avoid surprises.
Develop an integration plan
: Create a clear plan to smoothly merge the two companies and bridge cultural differences. This minimizes transition problems.
Proactively approach companies
: Don't wait for companies to put themselves up for sale. By actively searching, you gain more control and reduce competition in the purchasing process.
Seek professional guidance
: An experienced advisor offers financial, legal and strategic support, so that you go through the process well prepared and avoid pitfalls.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions: Taking over a company
What is the first step in taking over a company?
How do I find suitable companies to acquire?
Match Plan has a broad network and access to multiple acquisition platforms. We also actively search for suitable companies based on your criteria. We ensure a discreet and targeted approach.
What is involved in a business takeover?
A takeover consists of several phases, including the search process, the valuation, negotiations and the due diligence investigation. Match Plan guides you through the entire process and ensures that all legal, financial and strategic aspects are handled properly.
What makes Match Plan a suitable partner for an acquisition?
Our advisors have years of experience guiding business acquisitions. We work personally, purposefully, and with your best interests at heart. You'll have a single point of contact and benefit from a structured approach.
How does the fee structure for takeover support work?
Match Plan's acquisition support services are based solely on an hourly rate. You only pay for the time actually spent. We provide an estimate of the number of hours required upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.
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