The playbook
The M&A process — without the mystery.
We run the same playbook boutique M&A firms have used for decades, just faster, more transparent, and priced for South African SMEs.
- 1
Discovery call
30 min · FreeA frank conversation about your business, your timing and your goals. If we're not a fit, we'll say so and point you elsewhere.
- Indicative valuation range
- Honest read on saleability
- Overview of process and fees
- 2
Engagement
Week 1 · R7 500/mo retainerYou sign a short, plain-English engagement letter. We kick off the workstream and assign your lead advisor.
- NDA in both directions
- Data room set up
- Kick-off meeting with your team
- 3
Preparation
Weeks 2–5We package your business the way buyers actually evaluate deals — not the way ads are written.
- Blind teaser (1-pager, no name)
- Confidential Information Memorandum (IM)
- Normalised financials and add-back schedule
- 4
Confidential go-to-market
Weeks 4–14Your business goes live to our vetted buyer network and — where appropriate — a curated public listing on SellBiz.
- Direct outreach to strategic and financial buyers
- NDA gating on the full IM
- Weekly progress report to you
- 5
Offers & negotiation
Weeks 8–18We collect indicative offers, coach you through the trade-offs, and negotiate the LOI on your behalf.
- Side-by-side offer comparison
- Structure, earn-out and tax guidance
- Selected buyer signs Letter of Intent
- 6
Due diligence & close
Weeks 14–24We project-manage due diligence, warranties and legals to keep the deal on the rails until funds flow.
- Working capital and NAV mechanics
- SPA negotiation with your lawyer
- Success fee paid only at close