What is the Typical Process for Acquisitions?
Private equity acquisitions are intricate transactions that encompass the procurement of a company by a private equity firm with the intent of expanding and enhancing the company’s operations. Private equity firms apply their know-how in finance and operations to assist businesses in thriving, and their investment in the company is generally designed to be a long-term commitment. In this discourse, we will delineate the customary progression for private equity acquisitions.
Contents
1. Preceding assessment and due diligence
The foremost measure in the process is for the private equity firm to appraise conceivable acquisition targets. They may employ an array of criteria to identify potential targets, such as company size, industry, growth potential, and profitability. Subsequently, the private equity firm will perform a preliminary due diligence review to evaluate the company’s financial performance, market position, and growth prospects.
2. Letter of Intent (LOI)
Following the initial appraisal and due diligence, the private equity firm will generally issue a notification of intent (NOI) to the target company. The NOI outlines the stipulations of the proposed acquisition, encompassing the purchase price, financing terms, and other specifics of the transaction.
3. Negotiating and definitive agreement
The subsequent step in the process is for the private equity firm and the target company to negotiate the stipulations of the acquisition. This incorporates bargaining the purchase price, financing terms, and other fundamental terms of the transaction. Once the parties have agreed on the stipulations of the transaction, they will sign a conclusive agreement, which details the terms of the acquisition comprehensively.
4. Financing and closing
Upon signing the conclusive agreement, the private equity firm will secure financing for the acquisition. This may include debt financing, equity financing, or a combination of both. Upon securing the financing, the parties will work to finalize the transaction. This involves transferring ownership of the company to the private equity firm and completing all necessary legal and regulatory requirements.
5. Post-acquisition assimilation/integration and growth
Upon completing the acquisition, the private equity firm will work closely with the management team of the target company to integrate the company into its portfolio and implement its growth strategy. This may encompass making operational improvements, investing in new technology or equipment, or expanding the company’s product lines or geographic reach. The private equity firm will typically hold the company for several years, during which time it will work to improve the company’s operations and grow its value.
In conclusion, private equity acquisitions are intricate transactions that involve several steps, from the preliminary assessment and due diligence to post-acquisition assimilation and growth. By following a well-defined process, private equity firms can identify attractive acquisition targets, negotiate favorable terms, and work with management teams to drive value and growth in the acquired company.
Ryan Nead is a Managing Director of InvestNet, LLC and it’s affiliate site Acquisition.net. Ryan provides strategic insight to the team and works together with both business buyers and sellers to work toward amicable deal outcomes. Ryan resides in Texas with his wife and three children.