Brown Smith Wallace LLC

Six Step M&A, Sale or Divestiture Process

As experienced advisors and dealmakers, we facilitate finding the common ground on all issues that result in a completed deal. From this, we glean the options available to our client and work with other advisors to select the best options to ensure success. Our process has been developed and refined to include the following six steps or best practices for a merger, acquisition, sale or divestiture.

 
Step 1— Setting Goals 

We help you establish specific, realistic and achievable goals. We get to know you, your current management team and the nuances of your enterprise. That’s how we can help you frame a crystal clear set of merger, acquisition, sale or divestiture objectives.


Step 2— Identifying and Attracting Targets

We pinpoint companies that meet the target criteria, assess relevant issues and develop merger, acquisition, sale or divestiture documents. After completing our initial research and evaluating financing alternatives, we reach agreement with appropriate potential buyers or sellers and produce one or more bona fide interested parties. 


Step 3— Negotiating 

We bring our experience to deliver the best deal for our client. Our goals are to meet your objectives and close the deal. 


Step 4— Conducting Due Diligence
 

Once terms are agreed to in principle and a letter-of-intent is issued, we assist in the due diligence process. We review all relevant data and terms having potential impact on the transaction, and resolve differences. Often, we serve as a conduit for questions and concerns of the client and the prospective buyer or seller. 


Step 5— Negotiating Contracts 

We prefer to negotiate the final arrangements. Buyers and sellers are usually too emotional to represent their best interests. 


Step 6— Closing the Deal 

Most final deals and related contracts are somewhat fluid, with major or minor provisions being modified throughout the process. We address any issues that arise and facilitate the closing. 
For more information regarding our Financial Advisory Services, please contact Donna Beck Smith, CPA/ABV/CFF, ASA, CVA, Cr. FA, at 314.983.1259, dsmith@bswllc.com , Harvey Wallace, CPA/ABV, CVA, at 314.983.1233, hwallace@bswllc.com or Barry Worth, CPA, CVA, CM&AA, at 314.983.1202, bworth@bswllc.com.