Mergers & Acquisitions.

M&A refers to company acquisitions, sales, or mergers in which ownership structures are changed—a strategic path to growth, market share expansion, or succession solutions.

These include share deals, asset deals, management buy-outs/buy-ins, and strategic minority interests.

An M&A process comprises strategy, preparation (M&A readiness), target search, due diligence, contract negotiation, closing, and integration.

M&A readiness describes how well a company is prepared legally, financially, and organizationally for a deal. Good preparation increases the chances of a successful completion.

Typical risks are incorrect company valuation, legal or tax pitfalls, lack of integration, or unknown liabilities.

In a share deal, company shares are transferred; in an asset deal, only selected assets and liabilities.

A due diligence should cover all relevant legal, tax, financial, and operational areas in order to identify risks early.

The valuation determines the economic value of the company and is crucial for purchase price negotiations and fair deal structures.

Earn-out clauses link parts of the purchase price to future performance of the company or management—frequently used when forecasts are uncertain.

International deals involve additional legal, tax, and regulatory aspects that go beyond the national level.

For certain size criteria, transactions must be notified to and approved by national or EU antitrust authorities.

Integration is crucial to realize synergies, adapt organizational processes, and align the cultural aspects of the companies.

Strategic buyers, financial investors (e.g., private equity), or management teams can be identified through networks, investment banks, and specialized advisors.

Costs vary greatly depending on complexity and scope of services—from project-based fees to success fees. An individual cost estimate is part of the initial consultation.

Legal expertise protects against risks, ensures fair contractual terms, and navigates safely through regulatory requirements.

Mid-sized transactions can take from several months to over a year, depending on scope, complexity, and due diligence.

Objectives include, for example, market expansion, strengthening the product portfolio, or succession planning.

Through solid preparation, clear financial and legal data, transparent communication, and professional advisory.

Tax structuring can significantly influence purchase price design, liability, and future company profits and should be planned early.

Confidentiality is ensured through NDA agreements and secure data rooms to exchange sensitive data in a protected manner.

Succession M&A refers to the sale of a company to external buyers (e.g., strategic buyers, private equity, or management) when no suitable family-internal or internal succession is available or appears economically sensible.

Ideally 3–5 years before the planned exit, in order to optimize legal, tax, and organizational matters early and increase company value.

Frequently these are strategic competitors, financial investors (private equity), family offices, or the existing management in the context of an MBO.

In succession M&A, in addition to the purchase price, continuity, employee retention, corporate culture, and the role of the previous owner after the sale are often the focus.

Often the seller remains on board temporarily as managing director, advisor, or minority shareholder to ensure knowledge transfer and stability.

Through targeted buyer selection, contractual provisions (e.g., location, employee, or brand commitments), and a coordinated transition phase.

Tax matters such as allowances, partial income procedures, holding structures, or reinvestments should be reviewed and structured early.

Transparent communication, incentive models, and clear future prospects are crucial to retain key personnel and avoid uncertainties.

Without a prepared succession structure, significant risks arise. Early succession and contingency planning is essential to secure the ability to act.

It coordinates legal, tax, and strategic aspects, structures the process, protects the seller from liability risks, and maximizes planning certainty and outcome.