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Transportation, Logistics & Automotive
M&A deals in the transportation and logistics sector have been typically dependent on industry performance. Thus, in 2007 and 2008, the transportation and logistics industry and subsequently the M&A deals has suffered. The transportation and logistics industry is heavily dependent on so many factors including energy prices, material prices, government regulation, government spending and the overall economy. This sector including the automotive companies has typically had lower gross margins than many other industries. Any company with 20%+ gross margins is likely to fetch a good multiple for their business.
Moderate barriers to entry, large public interest, and a large employment contributor, the transportation and logistics industry has a large number of middle-market companies which can make M&A opportunities great. Those that have diversified operations and created niche markets to increase gross margins are good candidates for acquisition. While many companies in the transportation and automotive industries have turned to imports to increase their margins, many buyers are looking for business models with strong domestic capital asset bases.
Recent M&A Trends
The lower middle-market (deals under $100 million) has weathered the credit freeze and "Great Recession" better than the upper middle market has. The deal landscape for the middle market has changed as Wall Street has struggled, but so far, deals are getting done.
The biggest change has been in the deals has been valuations, reliance on debt and reliance on the seller to finance part of the deal. We have seen an increased use of earn-outs, which are typically used in periods where interest rates are high or credit is tight. Thus, PE groups have not stopped investing, and in fact are aggressively trying to deploy their capital into middle-market companies.
As profits are returning, many strategic buyers are more willing to use their cash reserves to purchase various technologies or intangibles that are of synergistic value to them.
Depending on your situation, now could be a good time to seek an exit or even plan for an exit several years down the road. For those that want top dollar for their company and know it will achieve strong, consistent growth for many years, now is definitely not the right time to sell. While valuations may be down, there are many creative ways of structuring deals that may not affect your end proceeds much.
Therefore, if you are a business owner looking to sell, do not avoid doing so due to market conditions. While current market conditions might require a more nuanced approach, the directors at Orion Capital Group have the experience to help you weather these current changes.
If you would like to learn more about Orion Capital Group, please contact us by your prefered means. Any mode of communication is held strictly confidential.
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