Mergers and acquisitions

Strategic growth decision making

Globalisation and company growth ambitions are driving an increase in M&A activity worldwide as businesses look to establish a footprint in countries beyond their own. Even within their own regions, many businesses feel the pressure to acquire in order to establish a strategic presence in new markets, such as those being created by rapid technological innovation.

We work with entrepreneurial businesses, their owners and management teams in the mid-market to help them understand the true commercial potential of the business they plan to acquire and how the purchase might serve their strategic goals.

From exploring the strategic options from the perspective of the business or its shareholders, to advising on and project managing the chosen solution, we provide a truly integrated corporate finance offering.

Our clients choose Grant Thornton because:

They receive seamless access to the full range of expertise needed to get maximum value from a deal.
We have the capability to support our clients throughout the transaction process and beyond – helping them achieve the best possible outcome at the point of the transaction and always with an eye to supporting the attainment of their longer-term strategic goals.
Clients throughout the world who are looking to acquire a business outside their country have access to our market-leading teams in all the key financial centres.

Supporting our clients

We have significant experience advising clients on transactions in all regions of the world. Our teams provide expert advice in the following areas:

Buying a business

For businesses looking to grow by acquisition, our corporate finance advisory team will take a hands-on approach to helping you find the perfect match to achieve your business objectives.

Private equity advisory

Our integrated approach brings together a team of professionals from corporate finance, taxation and assurance services to provide bespoke solutions, from initial investment, performance improvement and growth through to exit. As well as acting for private equity houses, we advise private equity-backed companies, and management teams seeking private equity investment.

Exit strategy services

We apply a tailored methodology and fully project manage and implement the sale or closure of underperforming or non-core corporate entities at maximum value. As well as ensuring the smooth completion of the transaction, we ensure it is structured correctly to deliver the desired strategic outcome.

Performance improvement

Our multi-disciplinary operational and financial restructuring specialists provide support to develop significant business process improvement, implement new business strategies, divest non-core businesses and design new capital structures, all with the goal of enhancing value.

Valuations

Whether you are contemplating a merger, acquisition or restructuring or need support for a proposed financial structure, we can provide an independent view on value. We ensure that you receive robust advice within the constraints placed by your deal deadlines.

Selling a business

If you are considering selling your business, you want to be sure of achieving the highest possible value and a smooth sales process. Our corporate finance team draws on the expertise of other technical specialists within our firm wherever necessary to deliver a complete service that covers every aspect of the sales process.

Raising finance

We are experienced in helping management teams, corporates and private shareholders raise private equity and/or debt finance to support growth, release value or refinance. Capitalising on our strong connections within the finance sector, we help you explore the options open to you in terms of raising finance and ensure your chosen approach is structured for maximum benefit.

Tax structuring

Our transaction tax specialists work closely with our corporate finance team to ensure you have a full picture of the tax implications of your deal. Our team is highly experienced in understanding deal dynamics and establishing effective tax structures. Our extensive work with mid-market clients means we understand the personal tax planning needs of business owners and reflect these in our tax structuring solutions.

Financial reporting

We draw on our extensive financial reporting expertise to consolidate newly acquired businesses into your group accounts, including breaking out recognisable intangible assets from goodwill, in accordance with the latest accounting principles. Our methodologies, coupled with our broad industry coverage, help us discuss the critical elements of the valuations efficiently with your management teams. This drives cost-effective delivery whilst minimising disturbance to your business.