The process

How we acquire a business

Six clear steps, typically 12 to 16 weeks from first conversation to completion — with a target close of around 90 days.

01

Confidential call

We begin with a private conversation — no paperwork, no commitment. I want to understand the business you've built, why you're considering a sale, and what a good outcome looks like for you personally. If it isn't a fit, I'll tell you honestly and you've lost nothing but an hour.

No obligation · Nothing shared with anyone
02

NDA & initial review

Before any meaningful information changes hands, we sign a mutual non-disclosure agreement. You then share headline financials — typically the last two to three years of accounts and any management information. This isn't an audit; it's the homework we need to make a fair, considered offer. Your staff, customers and competitors need never know.

Initial information · Strict confidentiality
03

Heads of terms

We present a clear, written indicative offer covering price, structure and any conditions — and I'll walk you through exactly how we arrived at it. There's no pressure, and you're encouraged to take independent advice. We're comfortable with full buyouts, earn-outs, partial sales, vendor finance and phased exits, so the structure can be shaped around your goals and tax position.

Indicative offer · What we agree is what you receive
04

Due diligence

Once terms are agreed, our advisory team runs a focused, proportionate review of the financials, contracts and operations. We're not hunting for reasons to reduce the price — we're building the confidence to complete. If something material does emerge, you'll hear it from us directly and early.

Typically 4–8 weeks, depending on complexity
05

Legal & finance

Our solicitor prepares the sale and purchase agreement and works alongside yours to reach completion efficiently. Funding is already arranged through our finance partners by this stage — sized to what the business can comfortably support, never loaded with debt it has to outperform simply to service.

SPA & funding · Both sides properly advised
06

Completion & handover

We agree a transition that suits you — a short handover, or a longer consulting involvement if you'd prefer to stay close. I take on the business personally: keeping your team, honouring your commitments to customers, and building on what you created. That's the point of all of this.

Smooth handover · A long-term owner, not a flip
~90 days
Target time from first call to completion
£0
Fees payable by you, at any stage
100%
Confidential, from the first conversation

Start with a conversation

No forms to labour over, no commitment required. Reach out and I'll take it from there — personally, and in confidence.

Get in touch