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Learn about the trade sale process with our partners at GS Verde Group

What is a trade sale?

A trade sale of a business is a popular means of exit, often to a trade buyer operating in the same industry. The disposal typically entails a company’s shares or assets either in whole or in part.

The acquisitive party may be a strategic buyer looking to grow their own business through market share acceleration, to expand regional footprint, or the addition of new services or products

Interested in a trade sale for your business?

Contact GS Verde to discuss your options

Trade Sale vs Other Business Exit Options

What does a Trade Sale involve?

  • Buyer comes from an external party
  • Purchasing company continues the trade of the acquired company
  • Can involve shareholding or assets
  • Works for insolvent companies as an exit route from administration
  • Can establish a clean break for an exiting owner

Features of an Employee Ownership & other sale types

  • Existing staff can take on ownership/directorial roles (EO/MBO)
  • Provides continuity for the business
  • Equity can be released in phases
  • Establishes a route for succession

Key Benefits:

Case Study:

What happens when you sell a business?

Who: Herida Medical, a healthcare manufacturer of pressure care mattresses, acquired by leading European medical device company Winncare.

GS Verde Services: Corporate legal advice

Quote: “The acquisition by Winncare marks the start of an exciting new era for our business. Over the last few years, we have spent time appointing the right people and the right teams in order to grow and with the strength of Winncare behind us, there is the opportunity to escalate this further. I predict a very bright future for us in the pressure area care sector.” – Sean Spencer, Herida Managing Director

Check out the webinar

Trade Sale Advantages and Considerations

Trade Sale Advantages

An exiting owner can create a ‘clean break’ if they are looking to retire or are embarking on a new venture.

The vendors often achieve the full value of the business on day one.

The acquirer is likely to be familiar with the business sector, which can make the sale process more efficient – They are likely to understand characteristic demands.

It can allow for an opportunity to stay within the business.

Joining two businesses in the same sector can increase collective market share, remove competition, and open up new markets.

Trade Sale Considerations

Marketing the business for sale and seeking optimal buyers can be costly and requires expertise.

If the transaction does not go ahead, it risks business information being more easily accessible to competitors.

As a reaction to the change in control, there is the possibility of negative sentiments from customers and employees, which will need to be managed

Why GS Verde Group?

All the support you need, under one roof

The process of selling a business involves several stages, each requiring specialist advisers. At GS Verde, we work as one Group to create your complete business sale advisory team, helping you navigate the journey from planning and strategy to pre-sale preparation, and finally to successful completion. As deal-making experts, the GS Verde Group offers all the necessary expertise under one roof.

To find out if a Private Equity sale is the best route for you and your business, contact us.

Discover how the GS Verde Group can support you

Contact GS Verde to discuss your options
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