A merger or acquisition can accelerate growth or ensure succession. But such processes are complex. How do you find the right party? How do you determine the correct valuation? And how do you guide the process without causing internal unrest? A transfer within the family or to employees also requires preparation. Legal, tax and emotional aspects all play a role. A successful transfer begins long before the actual transfer takes place. Transparency and structure are essential in this regard.
Situations you recognize, answers that help you move forward.
The value of your company is more than just a calculation. Of course, figures play a role: turnover, profitability, assets, debts... But intangible factors also make a difference, such as your customer portfolio, brand value, technology or growth potential. The valuation also depends on the context: is it an acquisition, a family transfer or an investment round?
It is important to look not only at the current situation, but also at future prospects. How sustainable are your revenues? What risks does an outsider see? And to what extent are you, as an entrepreneur, responsible for the success of your business? An objective valuation helps you to form realistic expectations and negotiate more effectively. Make sure you get the right guidance, because small nuances can have a big impact.
The right investor or buyer fits your vision, pace and values. It's not just about money, but also about trust, commitment and added value. Are you looking for capital for growth, guidance with internationalisation or a successor for your company? Then it helps to structure your story clearly: where are you today, where do you want to go and what do you need to get there? Professional preparation is crucial.
Potential partners want quick insight into your figures, risks and future plans. So ensure transparency and credibility. A strong information package, a clear pitch and a well-defined negotiation strategy make all the difference. Attracting investors can be relatively easy. But if you really want to create value, focus on finding a partner who not only fits the deal, but also the company and the people behind it.
A company acquisition is more than just a commercial deal. Tax and legal aspects also determine the success of the transaction, both in the short and long term. Consider the optimal structure (share transaction or asset deal), the consequences for VAT and registration fees, or the taxation of the transfer of buildings or company assets. An incorrect assessment can lead to unexpected costs or delays.
There are also many legal aspects to consider in an acquisition. Clear contracts, guarantees, confidentiality and liabilities must be carefully worked out. And then there is due diligence: the process of identifying risks and hidden defects. Do you want to avoid unpleasant surprises? Then a multidisciplinary approach is essential, from the initial discussions to the final contract.
A business transfer involves far more than just determining the sale price. From a tax perspective, you need to consider factors such as capital gains tax, registration duties, VAT, withholding tax and the potential reclassification of income. Legally, aspects such as ownership structure, liability and contractual obligations play a key role.
The impact depends on whether you are transferring shares (a share deal) or only specific assets and liabilities (an asset deal). The structure of the transaction, the financing method and the agreements between buyer and seller are also decisive. Want to avoid unpleasant surprises before or after the acquisition and clearly understand the tax implications? Engage experts from the very start who can guide you through the entire process.
These topics will help you think, plan and grow further
These topics will help you think, plan and grow further
Whether you want to grow, internationalise, digitise or transfer, we are happy to think along with you. Contact us and discover how we can support the growth of your business.