Helping UK SME Owners Maximise Their Exit Value
Leighton Herdson
Selling your business is one of the most significant decisions you’ll ever make, and achieving the best possible outcome requires more than just a transaction — it requires a strategy. With years of hands-on experience in buying, selling, and growing businesses, I offer expert guidance at every stage of the process. Whether you’re planning to retire, step into a new venture, or simply transition your business to the next generation, I work with you to craft a tailored exit strategy that meets your unique goals.My approach focuses on maximising the value of your business by positioning it to appeal to the right buyers, whether that’s strategic trade buyers, private equity firms, or high-net-worth individuals. I leverage my extensive network and industry connections to ensure your business attracts the interest it deserves. With a deep understanding of the challenges business owners face during an exit, I provide practical advice, personalised support, and a smooth, transparent process — all aimed at securing the best deal for you.
Guiding SME Owners Through Successful Exits
Who I Help
I specialise in helping UK-based SME owners who are preparing for an exit, focusing on businesses valued up to £10 million. Whether you’re looking to retire, transition to a new venture, or simply step away after years of hard work, I provide expert guidance to help you navigate the complex process of selling your business.I understand that each owner has unique goals and concerns, which is why I offer a tailored approach designed to address your specific needs. From maximising your business’s value to identifying the right buyer, I’m here to ensure that the sale is a smooth, profitable, and fulfilling experience. Whether you’re seeking a full exit or partial sale, I’ll work with you to create a strategy that aligns with your vision for the future.With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by SME owners, I provide practical, real-world advice every step of the way, ensuring you secure the best deal on your terms.
Experience, Expertise, and Results You Can Trust
Why Work With Me?
Absolutely! Here’s a more detailed and fluid version of the “Why Work With Me” section:With hands-on experience in buying, selling, and growing businesses, I bring a practical, results-driven approach to every transaction. My expert guidance is rooted in real-world experience, allowing me to provide actionable advice that helps you navigate the complexities of selling your business with confidence. I offer access to a broad network of trusted buyers, including trade buyers, private equity firms, and high-net-worth individuals, ensuring that your business is presented to a variety of potential buyers.What sets me apart is my personalised support. I take a boutique, hands-on approach tailored to your unique goals and needs. From the initial consultation to the final handshake, you’ll receive my full attention, with a focus on achieving the best possible outcome. To further maximise your sale price, I create competitive bidding environments that encourage multiple offers and negotiation opportunities, ultimately securing the best terms for you.
Streamlining the Process for Maximum Value and Minimal Stress
Your Exit, Simplified
Preparation is key to ensuring your business is attractive to potential buyers. I work closely with you to refine and enhance your business, identifying areas of improvement and positioning it in a way that appeals to the right buyers. This includes evaluating financials, operational efficiency, and overall business structure to maximize its market value.Next, I tap into my network to connect you with a broad spectrum of buyers, including strategic trade buyers, high-net-worth individuals, and institutional investors. This diverse pool of potential buyers ensures you have multiple options to choose from, each with the resources and commitment to support a successful transaction.
Creating a competive environment to maximise value
Leveraging Buyer Networks
To further enhance the outcome, I create a competitive environment by leveraging the interest from multiple buyers. This strategic approach is designed to drive up the sale price, ensuring you secure the best possible deal.Finally, I guide you through every step of the transaction, from negotiations to closing. I partner with trusted legal and financial advisors to ensure the process runs smoothly, protecting your interests and making sure all the details are handled efficiently.
Connecting You with the Right Buyers to Maximise Your Sale
Buyer Sourcing
I leverage my extensive network of trusted buyers and industry connections to identify a diverse range of potential buyers for your business. This includes strategic trade buyers seeking to expand their operations, private equity firms and institutional investors looking for strong returns, and high-net-worth individuals or management teams eager to acquire and grow established businesses.By presenting you with a variety of qualified buyers, I ensure you have the freedom to evaluate your options and select the one that best aligns with your goals, whether it’s achieving the highest value, ensuring business continuity, or finding a buyer who shares your vision for the company’s future.