"Set New Goals to Avoid Seller's Remorse" explores the emotional aftermath of selling a business, introducing "One-More-Year-Itis" and offering solutions for moving forward. Through real client experiences, it suggests engaging in new ventures, advisory roles, philanthropy, family reconnection, and personal pursuits, emphasizing the unique opportunity to use time and money for a fulfilling life post-sale.

In 2023, the lower middle M&A market is thriving despite a global downturn. Deals are closing rapidly, and businesses are selling near benchmark values. Key trends include a focus on quality acquisitions and a rise in reshoring, particularly in North America, showcasing resilience and opportunities for small to medium-sized businesses in the current market.

These are private family firms established by high-net-worth families to manage their wealth. Much like private equity firms, family offices will acquire, grow, and then re-sell a business as a way to generate financial returns. Many times, they have more patient capital, i.e., they do not have a set timeline in which they need to sell the business.  

Making the decision to pursue a merger or acquisition can be a complicated process fraught with risk. Even when the financials look good and the potential rewards seem great, there are several reasons why a buyer might decide to walk away from a deal. Understanding these reasons can help sellers prepare for negotiations and improve the likelihood of a successful outcome. Here are some of the most common reasons why M&A buyers might decide not to proceed with a deal.

Due diligence is the process the buyer goes through to ensure a business meets their expectations prior to acquisition. Due diligence serves to confirm the information the seller presented is accurate and that there are no issues that would create risk or otherwise impact the value of the business. Due diligence typically covers commercial factors (product, customers, suppliers, market) as well as financial reporting, environmental, human resources, and legal.