The sale of a company – no matter if partly or as a whole – often marks a “red line“ in the world of entrepreneurs and employees alike. In the best interest of the company all plans and activities regarding the sale of the company must be treated internally and externally with utmost confidentiality. Therefore a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) will be signed between the parties involved in the negotiations. Subsequently there will be held several face-to-face meetings introducing and presenting in great detail the company and the strategic investor as well as the managements teams of the negotiating parties. Only when provided maximum confidence in the reliability and capability of all partners the next steps will be initiated.

An initial valuation of the company from a strategic investor’s perspective is based on company numbers/KPIs, company strategy, national and global market positioning, solution and product portfolio as well as on audited annual financial statements. Thereupon a strategic purchase price – and possibly additional options - will be calculated and negotiated. As soon as the entrepreneur and the investor reach an agreement, the final valuation will be settled and the sales process will eventually be finalized.

Experienced lawyers and auditors will support the M&A contract design. Due diligence will provide entrepreneurs and investors alike with a complete picture of the value and the future positioning of the company. The results of contract negotiations and due diligence will be incorporated into the agreement. Based on this process the milestones “Signing“ and “Closing“ will be set and accomplished.