Peal Partnership Limited

We have advised companies of varying sizes to successfully answer a number of questions including:

• HOW DO I GENERATE THE HIGHEST SALE PRICE? Establishing a 'true' value for a company is not a science - ultimately a company is only worth what another party is willing to pay for it.  Nevertheless it is possible to consisently achieve a 'high' sales price by using a process that puts potential buyers in competition which each other.

• HOW MUCH PLANNING IS NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE A SUCCESSFUL SALE? Many successful sales have involved years of planning - to ensure that the company is attractive to potential acquirers.  However it is also true that many sales can be achieved without this level and degree of planning.  In owner-managed businesses, the ultimate test is whether the business represents an attractive proposition without the presence of the owner-manager.  It is worth getting specialist tax advice at an early stage, as relatively minor changes could lead to substantial tax savings.

• DO I NEED A SALES DOCUMENT? In our view a Sales / Information Memorandum is important.  Not only will it ultimately save time [through early identification of parties that do not wish to proceed], but it demonstrates a degree of professionalism that is often favourable reflected in the ulitmate sales price.

In some situations a company sale may not be the right strategy.  There are a number of alternate exit strategies, which may be appropriate depending on the specific objectives of the owner[s].  We would be pleased to help clients identify what suits them best.