Frequently Asked Questions
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Mergers & Acquisitions
When is the right time to sell a business?
The right time to sell a business depends on several factors: the growth stage of the business, personal ambitions, market conditions and financial performance. In practice, a company is more attractive to buyers when it is performing well, has clear growth opportunities and is sale-ready. RELAY can also help with a timely Exit Readiness trajectory so that they achieve maximum results at the right time.
How long does an M&A process take?
An average M&A process takes between 6 and 12 months from preparation to completion. Factors such as complexity, negotiation processes and the number of parties involved can affect the duration of this process. RELAY works with a structured approach and clear planning, so entrepreneurs know where they stand and the chances of delays are minimised.
How do you determine the value of a company?
The value of a company is usually determined using financial ratios and projections, market position and future potential. Commonly used methods are the EBITDA multiple, discounted cash flow (DCF) and comparisons with similar transactions. RELAY conducts a professional company valuation out as the basis for a successful sale or acquisition. We ensure that the valuation is realistic and defensible towards potential buyers or investors.
What does counselling for a business acquisition or sale cost?
The cost of guidance for a business acquisition or sale depends on the complexity, size and duration of the process. RELAY works with a combination of a fixed fee and a success fee on completion of the transaction. This ensures shared interest and transparency. During a non-binding introductory conversation we are happy to give you a tailor-made indication.
Why should I use an adviser in a business acquisition or sale?
A business acquisition or sale is a complex and intensive process. A financial advisor provides structure, monitors your interests and helps with critical components such as valuation, positioning, negotiations and managing the entire process. RELAY brings experience, market expertise and a strong network, so you get the best result and can act with confidence.
What is due diligence and what does it entail?
During due diligence, the buyer gains detailed insight into the financial, legal, tax, commercial and other operational aspects of the company. The aim is to identify risks and substantiate the acquisition. RELAY carefully guides this process and helps to collect and structure all the necessary documentation, so that the investigation proceeds efficiently.
What is the difference between an equity transaction and an asset liability transaction?
In an equity transaction, you buy or sell (all) the shares of a company. In an asset/liability transaction, you only take over specific parts (such as customers, machines or IP). RELAY advises on the best structure for your situation.
What are typical pitfalls in an acquisition process?
Common risks include: overly optimistic valuations, poor preparation, insufficient due diligence or poor communication. RELAY carefully guides the process and prevents these mistakes.
Can I also sell part of my business?
Yes you can. For example, you then sell a minority or majority stake to an investor. RELAY advises on structure, valuation and governance arrangements.
Exit Readiness
What is Exit Readiness and why is it important?
Exit Readiness is the process of preparing a company for a future sale. This includes optimising financial reporting, structuring ownership, legal check-ups and identifying and initiating value-enhancing aspects. Proper preparation not only increases the sales value, but also speeds up the sales process. RELAY guides companies step by step in this route.
What steps are part of Exit Readiness?
Exit Readiness consists of several steps that make your company sales-ready. Think about cleaning up and structuring financial administration, optimising business processes, legal check-ups, and sharpening the strategic positioning. RELAY guides these steps step by step, so you are well prepared to enter the market.
How does RELAY help prepare for an exit?
How does Exit Readiness increase the value of my business?
When should I start Exit Readiness?
Can I also do Exit Readiness without concrete sales plans?
Is Exit Readiness only for big companies?
M&A-as-a-Service
What does M&A-as-a-Service entail?
M&A-as-a-Service is a flexible form of deal support where RELAY delivers on-demand deployable M&A capacity. Organisations can use specific services or a combination thereof - think litigation support, valuation, due diligence and documentation. Ideal for parties with variable M&A workloads who want to move quickly without building a team themselves.
Who is M&A-as-a-Service intended for?
This service has been developed for:
- Companies with an active buy-and-build strategy
- Private equity investors and family offices
- M&A departments
- Consultants and M&A service providers with peak workloads
In short: for anyone who needs high-quality M&A support, without long-term hiring or fixed overhead.
What does collaboration look like in M&A-as-a-Service?
The collaboration will be tailored to your needs:
- Project-based or long-term cooperation
- One service or the entire M&A process
- Directly deployable, with short lines of communication and fixed contacts
RELAY works as an extension of your team, with an efficient and pragmatic approach.
What benefits does M&A-as-a-Service offer?
- Scalable capacity: deployable when needed, without fixed charges
- Fast onboarding: we know the dynamics of M&A processes
- Consistent quality: experienced dealmakers as permanent points of contact
- No loss of knowledge: continuous support for repeated transactions
How flexible is the deployment of M&A-as-a-Service?
Highly flexible. RELAY is immediately employable at:
- Strategic acquisitions
- Due diligence processes
- Modelling and valuation
- Preparation of market or transaction documentation
Whether it is a full takeover or partial support, we seamlessly fit your process.
Does M&A-as-a-Service also support sales processes?
Yes. Besides acquisitions, we also support sellers. Think about:
- Portfolio companies preparing for an exit
- Scale-ups exploring sales options
- Advisers seeking temporary deal capacity in sales mandates