Acquisitions are in some cases the best route to grow and create value, especially when two criteria are met: speed is key and the target segment is relatively mature. But those two factors also create specific risks for acquirers, contributing to the high proportion of failed acquisitions – about one-third to a half, in listed companies, according to large-scale studies. Whereas speed is a stimulating factor and creates focus, rush easily becomes a recipe for poor strategic decision-making. The risk behind segment maturity is less obvious. In a mature segment, data is readily available or at least assumed reliable, veterans and experts are plentiful and eager to explain how well they know the tricks, competition and market dynamics are supposedly well-known.
The acquisition due diligence process becomes a boring routine. Alas, in today’s context, certainties are highly toxic; examples abound where sleepy market segments have been deeply disrupted without notice, while most players failed to anticipate and to make the right turn in time. WMI methodology focuses on strategy as a driver for shareholder value. On top of classical strategic analysis expertise, our entrepreneurial and technology experience helps avoiding complacency on risks and facilitates the research of sound value drivers. WMI offers acquirers a combination of skills and experience to increase likelihood of success, negotiation levers and post-investment value creation, for each envisioned operation in various contexts: external growth, diversification, minority investments.
Spot
A target short list
Looking for acquisition targets is lengthy and uncertain.
We helps financial and business investors to spot acquisition targets that fit their strategy. We focus on targets operating in France, where we can leverage our market insights and network.
Assess
A potential target
Acquisitions are often expensive and risky
We provide independent advice to help acquirer making a sound and informed decision. We analyze the business model, risks and synergies, and we identify negotiation drivers.
Redesign
Post-merger strategy
Up to half of total acquisitions fail to create value.
We help the CEO and exec team to design a strategic and financial plan capable of enhancing shareholder value, so that the acquirer makes the most of the deal.