Succession Planning

A common reason for pursuing an external succession plan is the lack of suitable candidates from within the family or existing management who could take over the business. For some companies, factors such as potential internationalization or strategic realignment come into play – aspects that can be advanced through a sale to an external partner or by bringing in an investor. Not least, in the right market environment, high valuations and strong investor demand can offer a financial incentive to consider an external solution.

By 2026 alone, around 200,000 company transitions to a new generation or an external group of shareholders are expected.

At the same time, many companies are not accustomed to presenting their business as a whole and highlighting the strategic advantages that could result from an acquisition. Often, there is little experience with the broader environment of financial investors (private equity, family offices, industrial holdings, etc.), and this option cannot be properly assessed. Conversely, the complexity a buyer faces when integrating another company – including locations, employees, supplier and sales partner relationships – is sometimes underestimated.

Important questions for many companies include:

• Is my company even ready for an external takeover?
• What commitments must I make and what risks must I assume?
• How is confidentiality ensured throughout the process so as not to jeopardize day-to-day operations?

Our M&A teams specialize in guiding the complex sales process and achieving the best possible outcome for the shareholders. With our extensive experience and access to relevant investor groups, we can develop tailored solutions that address the specific needs of the company and its owners. Professional negotiation and rigorous process management not only secure a high success rate but also ensure adherence to the desired timelines.