Our Process
We take time to understand your business, effectively articulate its value, and expertly manage the deal through to completion.
Although each business sale journey is unique, here's a rough overview of the steps involved and how we'll provide support at each stage.
Preparation
We believe in a thorough and thoughtful preparation stage to lay the foundation for a successful business sale, working closely with other professional advisors when needed. Our preparation phase includes:
We start by gathering information. This careful upfront preparation with full disclosure ensures we collect all necessary data early on, allowing for smoother progress in later stages.
Working closely with existing shareholders, we help craft a compelling equity story. This narrative is presented in key documents such as the Information Memorandum and a no-names teaser, and is highlighted during management presentations.
We take great pride in creating a detailed Information Memorandum that tells the full story of your business. This important document covers everything from your core products or services, team and financials, to market opportunities, case studies and more! We spend time to truly understand your business, which allows us to produce a comprehensive and high-quality document that resonates with prospective buyers.
Our team conducts in-depth research on the markets relevant to your company. This helps us compile a comprehensive list of potential purchasers or investors, which we then rank based on various criteria.
Typical time to complete: 2-3 months
Marketing
During the marketing phase, we focus on connecting with potential investors and buyers to generate interest and move the sale forward. Here’s how we do it:
We carefully select and reach out to potential investors and buyers, negotiating non-disclosure agreements to ensure confidentiality and trust from the outset.
Once NDAs are in place, we distribute the comprehensive Information Memorandum, showcasing the full value and potential of your business.
We actively seek initial expressions of interest from our targeted shortlist of buyers or investors, gauging their level of enthusiasm and suitability.
We arrange and facilitate management presentations and site visits, giving potential buyers an in-depth look at your business and a chance to engage with your team directly.
Finally, we lead the negotiations to secure the best possible price, working towards agreeing on the heads of terms to set the groundwork for a successful deal closure.
Typical time to complete: 2-3 months
Execution
In the execution phase, we focus on finalising the sale with meticulous attention to detail. This include:
We work closely with solicitors to prepare the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) and other necessary legal documents, ensuring all terms are clearly defined and agreed upon.
We prepare a secure data room for due diligence, organising all essential documents and information that the buyer will need to review.
We facilitate the buyer's due diligence process, ensuring they have access to all required information and can thoroughly assess the business.
Throughout the due diligence process, we promptly address any queries or concerns from the buyer, providing clear and comprehensive answers to maintain confidence and momentum.
Typical time to complete: 2-3 months
Negotiation and Closing
In this final stage we:
We lead the negotiations to finalise the SPA, ensuring all terms are negotiated to your satisfaction and accurately reflect the agreed-upon terms.
Once negotiations are complete, we facilitate the signing of the definitive agreement, marking a significant milestone in the deal process.
Throughout this phase, the founding partners of LockDutton actively participate in all aspects of the project, including negotiations with counterparties and their advisors. We remain fully accessible to owners and management at all times, providing guidance and support whenever needed.
Typical time to complete: 2-3 months
