They key to ensuring a deal runs smoothly is hugely dependent on the ability to build a rapport with the owners. AI specialises in understanding the sentimental issues of the vendor as well as how the deal is progressing from their point of view. Acquirers often change their minds about which targets they like best, what AI does is maintain the relationships regardless, so that you have this freedom. You may wish to buy companies one after the other. You may wish to revisit the kitty months or even years later. This can mean speaking to shareholders on a daily basis, which many acquirers do not have the time or desire to do.

AI conducts first meetings on a fairly informal basis. It's a 'get to know each other' meeting where the synergies can be explored. Usually these meetings take place on the target's premises and include their shareholders, our client and an experienced AI deal leader. When required, AI is happy to conduct all first round meetings without the client's presence. This can be particularly advantageous if the targets are widely geographically spaced.

AI continues to gather all of the information and host all of the meetings required to progress the deal. Shareholder price aspirations are thoroughly addressed and modified! A view is established on valuation, pitfalls, management issues, payback time etc. An indicative offer is made on behalf of the client, after client approval of course, and an exclusivity agreement is put in place.

As mentioned above, we are still communicating with any other comparable targets at this stage.

AI manages the completion schedule.  We contribute to Heads of Terms, the due diligence process etc. We ensure that you save money by project managing the necessary legal and accounting input from other professionals.

AI provides a proposed deal structure, working with your lawyer on terms and warranties that will deliver the deal cost-effectively.  At this point many issues are deal breaking issues.  Our negotiators turn them into deal saving solutions.

AI works closely with a dedicated corporate legal practice who can help speed up a deal, but you can stick with your own if you wish.

The meetings, valuation and deal making stage can be purchased stand alone or at a discounted rate, as part of a packaged project.

If you would like to know more about valuing and negotiating with
acquisition targets please contact our sales team on 0870 199
4056 or click here to submit your enquiry on line.

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