A Quiet, Straightforward Process
From first conversation to completed deal, here is exactly what working with us looks like.
THE FOUR STEPS
STEP 1
THE FIRST CONVERSATION
Everything starts with a conversation. There is no paperwork, no commitment and no pressure. You can call, email or fill in the contact form. We will usually respond within one working day.
This first call is about getting to know you and your business. Nothing more. We will ask a few basic questions about the business, your situation and your timeline. You can share as much or as little as you like.
STEP 2
SIGNING THE NDA
Before we go any further, we sign a mutual non-disclosure agreement. This protects you completely — your financials, your customers, your staff, your suppliers. Nothing leaves that conversation without your explicit agreement.
The NDA is straightforward and takes minutes to sign. We use a clean, plain-English document — no legal complexity for its own sake.
STEP 3
THE INDICATIVE OFFER
If we believe there is a genuine fit, we will make a written indicative offer. This typically happens within a few days of the financial information being shared — not weeks.
Our offers are fair, based on actual business performance, and clearly stated. We don’t believe in low-ball tactics or deliberately vague valuations designed to be renegotiated later.
STEP 4
DUE DILIGENCE AND COMPLETION
Once heads of terms are agreed, due diligence begins. Our process is focused and discreet — we work with your accountant or solicitor and avoid unnecessary intrusion into day-to-day operations.
We aim to complete within six to ten weeks of agreeing heads of terms. Throughout this entire process, your team, customers and suppliers need never know a sale is being considered.
CONFIDENTIALITY — EXPANDED
Your Business Stays Your Business Until the Deal Is Done
Confidentiality is not a feature we offer — it is the foundation of how we work. Here is what that means in practice:
- We sign an NDA before any meaningful discussion takes place
- We never approach your employees, customers or suppliers without your consent
- We never share your business details with any third party without your permission
- We never make unsolicited contact with anyone connected to your business
- If we cannot reach a deal, we return or destroy any information you have shared
TIMELINE
How Long Does It Take?
Every business is different, but here is a realistic timeline for a straightforward acquisition:
Week 1
Initial conversation and NDA signed
Week 2
Financial information reviewed
Week 2–3
Indicative offer issued
Week 3-4
Heads of terms agreed
Week 4-12
Due diligence and completion
From first contact to completion, most deals take between two and four months. Some move faster.
FAQ
Questions About the Process
Do I need a solicitor?
Yes, and we strongly encourage it. We will recommend that you take independent legal advice before signing anything. A solicitor protects your interests and makes the process cleaner for both parties.
What happens to my staff?
We buy businesses to run them. That means keeping the team intact. We do not buy businesses with a plan to cut costs or restructure immediately after completion. Your staff are part of what makes the business worth buying.
Will my customers or suppliers find out?
Not unless you want them to. Throughout due diligence and up to completion, the sale is handled entirely between you, us, and your advisors. We do not require access to customers or key suppliers during this process.
What if we can't agree on price?
Then we part ways professionally. We never pressure sellers into a deal and we never use drawn-out processes as leverage. If the numbers don’t work for both sides, we say so clearly.
Can I stay involved after the sale?
Possibly. Some sellers prefer a clean break. Others want to stay on in an advisory capacity for six to twelve months. We are open to either and will discuss what works for you.
Ready to Start the Conversation?
There is no commitment involved in getting in touch. Just a confidential conversation to see if there might be a fit.