Ownership change is an opportunity, not a threat

Frank Holmes and Isabella Hancock on why a change of ownership in Welsh business shouldn't be seen as a negative and is often the springboard for significant investment and job creation

- 

FOR local independent or family-owned Welsh businesses, “change of ownership” can provoke fear and apprehension arising from inevitable inexperience, emotional legacy ties, staff welfare concerns, loss of control, corporate mortality denial or “life after” uncertainty.

At the same time, a new owner's leadership, performance track record and financial resources are key priorities for vendor's consideration.

Transition, specifically through M&A (merger and acquisition) transactions, should not be seen as the end of a business’ era, or last resort for a distressed business, but an exciting opportunity, essential to scaling the business, not just for the old and new owner's benefit, but for safeguarding valued employees, community and economic contribution.

Succession is still neglected by the majority of business owners whether family, corporate or employees.

A robust succession plan and preferred outcome, whether it be through an external disposal, an internal management buyout, an employee-ownership trust, or even a simple share transfer to next of kin, often protects other stakeholders, including customers and supply chain contributors.

From the acquirer's strategic perspective, the principal aim is to capture sustainable, profitable, growth which is not organically accessible.

Gaining greater market share or entering a new geographic region with indigenous connections accelerates scaling-revenue, and economies of scale-driven cost savings, enables human and physical capital leverage and removes operational duplication.

Access to new talent, know-how, protective patents, extended distribution networks or technology platforms provides a rich seam of opportunity for expansion.