Financial due diligence and business acquisitions
7 mins
Buying a business can be a challenging process; but we can assist you from beginning to end.
What we offer
We can help you achieve your acquisition strategies when considering buying a business. Our services cover the entire life cycle of any potential transaction.
Our Corporate Finance team has significant experience in advising acquisitive clients. We typically help clients by:
- Identifying and valuing potential targets
- Advising on an appropriate deal structure
- Undertaking financial and tax due diligence
- Assisting with raising finances
- Assisting with negotiations
- Guiding management teams through management buyouts
- Providing tax structuring advice, including Enterprise Investment Scheme Relief
- Reviewing legal documents and advising on financial and tax aspects
- Project managing the transaction through to completion
Frequently asked questions
- What is the process to identify business acquisition targets?
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Mercer & Hole’s buyer research team use a combination of deal databases, trade lists, online research, competitor benchmarking and insight into private equity portfolios to identify suitable targets.
- What is the process of buying a business?
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It includes target identification, approach, valuation assessment, structuring the terms of an offer, negotiation, due diligence, and legal documentation.
- What is the process to finance an acquisition?
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Options may include loans from banks or other debt providers, private equity, vendor financing, or internal funds.
- What are the risks of buying a business?
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Overvaluation, cultural mismatch, and integration challenges are common risks of buying a business.
- How is the value of a target business assessed?
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The value of a target business is assessed through financial analysis, market research and strategic fit.
- What does post-acquisition integration entail?
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It generally includes the process of merging operations, systems, and cultures after the deal closes.
- Is it possible to acquire a distressed business?
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Yes, but it requires careful due diligence and turnaround planning.
- What legal checks are needed when buying a business?
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Contracts, liabilities, IP rights, litigation and compliance issues should all be reviewed.
- How long does an acquisition take?
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Typically six to 12 months, depending on complexity and regulatory approvals.
Selection of recent transactions
Click below for details of a selection of deals and transactions for which we have advised which demonstrate our breadth of experience and credentials within the corporate finance team
Recent transactions >Corporate Finance Senior Team
Kevin Paget >
Director, Head of Deal Advisory
Tania Phillips >
Director, Head of Transaction Services
Jacqui Lawman >
Tax Partner
Mark Baxter >
Tax Partner
Why work with us?
We provide practical, business focused advice to help you achieve your business objectives. Our team of experts are available at any one of our four office locations and have an extensive knowledge and experience across a wide range of sectors.
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AccessibilityFour offices in London, St Albans, Rickmansworth, and Milton Keynes
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Cross Team ExpertiseJoined-up advice across all services, including Restructuring and Corporate and Business Tax
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Sector KnowledgeFood and agriculture, manufacturing, construction, logistics, technology and business services
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Industry RecognitionShortlisted as Corporate Finance Advisory Firm of the Year, Dealmakers Awards
