Company acquisitions and buy-side M&A

A successful acquisition requires clear objectives, a sound basis for decision-making, and a controlled process. When buying, the focus is less on opportunities and more on suitability, feasibility and long-term impact.

intelligentis supports company acquisitions, from defining search criteria and discreetly identifying suitable target companies to completing the transaction. Our approach is structured, our process is managed actively, and we select companies that align with the business’s strategic direction in terms of expertise, organisation and financial performance.

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Who we assist with company acquisitions

Small and medium-sized enterprises

Companies wishing to further develop their growth, market position or value creation through targeted acquisitions.

Entrepreneurial buyers

Buyers with operational responsibility who actively manage corporate acquisitions and think in a long-term, entrepreneurial manner.

Family Offices

Family offices that systematically build up, supplement or expand their investment portfolios in accordance with clear investment strategies.

Financial investors

Investors with ‘buy-and-build’ strategies, clear criteria and a focus on structured, repeatable transactions.

International investors

International investors who enter or expand into the German or European market through corporate acquisitions.

What matters when buying a business

An acquisition is a business decision that has long-term implications. Regardless of sector or transaction size, there are key factors that determine the quality and viability of an acquisition. These factors provide a framework for making well-informed decisions. They include:

Definition of objectives and strategic fit
What role should the acquisition play in terms of growth, portfolio development or market entry?

Access to suitable target companies
How can companies that are a good fit in terms of expertise, organisation and financial viability be identified?

Valuation and risk assessment
What assumptions underpin the valuation and how robust are they?

Structure and financing
How can the acquisition be meaningfully integrated into existing structures?

Feasibility and integration
What conditions are necessary for successful operational and cultural integration?

Our approach to company acquisitions

A successful business acquisition does not result from individual measures, but from a clear approach. When buying a business, it is essential to integrate objectives, market knowledge and process management from the outset.

intelligentis operates within a clear methodological framework when it comes to company acquisitions. The business objective is always the starting point. Building on this, we structure the search process, identify suitable target companies, and actively manage all subsequent steps. Our approach is guided by three fundamental principles:

Clarity of purpose, not opportunism.

Acquisitions are driven by business objectives, not market forces. We work closely with our clients to define the purpose of an acquisition and the crucial criteria.

A structured search and a discreet approach.

We identify suitable target companies based on a clear search profile. We then approach them discreetly and in a targeted manner, with a view to long-term compatibility. We also consider non-public and off-market opportunities.

Active process control.

We oversee the operational management of the entire acquisition process. We coordinate valuation, consultation, negotiation and structuring to ensure well-informed and transparent decision-making.

This approach increases transparency, reduces complexity, and allows our clients to concentrate on key business decisions.

How we can support you with your business acquisition

A successful acquisition depends on a structured and actively managed process. intelligentis supports buy-side clients in assessing opportunities, preparing sound decisions and coordinating every stage of the transaction, from acquisition strategy and target screening to due diligence, negotiations and closing. Each process is aligned with the client’s individual objectives.

The stages follow a clear sequence while remaining flexible enough to accommodate new insights and developments.

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Definition of objectives and search profile

Firstly, we set out the business objectives in concrete terms. Together, we define the role of an acquisition and the crucial criteria for a target company. This results in a robust search profile, forming the basis for all subsequent steps.

Screening and pre-selection

We identify potential target companies based on the search profile. We analyse the market in a structured manner and categorise and prioritise relevant companies. The aim is to compile a focused shortlist that considers strategic fit and feasibility.

Discreet approaches and initial contacts

Contact is made in a targeted and discreet manner. Depending on the situation, this can be done either anonymously or openly. The initial discussions are used to assess interest and the general circumstances, as well as establishing whether there is a fundamental fit. This provides a sound basis for deciding how to proceed.

Valuation and due diligence

Target companies are assessed based on their financial and organisational suitability. Assumptions are reviewed, risks are categorised, and the basis for decision-making is examined in greater depth. The due diligence process is prepared and managed in a structured manner.

Structuring and negotiation

The transaction is structured based on the insights gained. The purchase price, financing and contractual terms have been agreed, and Intelligentis is supporting the negotiations and coordinating all parties involved.

Signing, closing and implementation

We support the process all the way through to completion of the transaction. Even after closing, we continue to monitor the project's feasibility and provide support with handover and integration if required.

Why intelligentis?

Clear structures, sound experience and personal responsibility are required for corporate acquisitions. intelligentis is an owner-managed consultancy firm that actively manages and consistently executes buy-side transactions. We work with methodological clarity, the utmost discretion, and provide direct, personalised support. We aim to make decision-making processes transparent, identify risks early on and execute corporate acquisitions that are both sensible and sustainable in the long term.

What sets our work apart:

Owner-managed and personally accountable
Clear, structured processes
Discreet market and company approach
International experience and access to networks
Focus on long-term feasibility

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