Well-Planned and Successfully Executed Ownership Transitions

Planning and carrying out an ownership transition is often a process that spans several years. There are many important questions to consider. How can the business you have built continue to thrive? Does the next generation want to take over? Or should the company be sold to an external buyer?

A well-planned and properly executed ownership transition benefits all parties involved and provides reassurance for employees. That is why it is wise to start considering the best solution for your situation well in advance.

We support you with a holistic perspective, considering personal and relationship-related considerations as well as financial, tax, and legal factors.

Finding the Right Path for Your Business

Our experts can assist with the entire process or selected parts of it. To determine the most suitable path for your specific situation, we begin with a thorough assessment of your current circumstances. This serves as the foundation for the next phase, where we explore the options that best align with your goals.

We support you throughout the process, highlighting the risks and benefits of different alternatives. As a neutral party, we help facilitate communication among all stakeholders, creating clarity and confidence along the way.

Family Succession

Families that own businesses will eventually face the question of succession. Which children should become shareholders? Should a family member take over as CEO, or would it be more appropriate to recruit an external leader?

We help guide families through a succession process that is perceived as fair and balanced.

Internal Transfer of Ownership

Building a family business often involves significant personal commitment, but it is not always possible for a family member to continue running the company. In some cases, key employees or members of the management team may be the most suitable successors.

As a strategic adviser, we can help structure the organisational and financial framework required for a successful ownership transition within the company.

External Sale

Another option is to identify an external buyer. The first step is often to present the company in a way that is both accurate and attractive. With our extensive network and transaction experience, we help you achieve a successful sale that aligns with your objectives.

Family Succession

For family‑owned businesses, discussing the company’s future far in advance provides numerous advantages. However, these conversations are often postponed because they can involve sensitive and emotional issues.

Questions commonly arise, such as:

Which children should become shareholders?
Should a family member take over as CEO, or is external recruitment a better option?
Will my parents be disappointed if I choose not to take over the business?
Will my siblings and I be able to work together successfully?

Helping Families Achieve a Fair Transition

Planning and implementing a generational transfer is often a multi-year process. There are many factors to consider. Our experts provide a comprehensive perspective and bring extensive experience in the opportunities and challenges faced by owner-managed businesses.

By preparing and planning early, you increase the likelihood of finding a solution that works well for the entire family.

Internal Transfer of Ownership

When the time comes to step back from your business, there are several possible paths forward. Perhaps the next owners can be found within the company itself. If you have employees who share your vision and values, there may be strong foundations for an internal ownership transition.

Some owners choose to sell the business gradually while remaining involved for several years. Important considerations include:

How will your role evolve over time?
How should responsibilities be handed over?
What should the overall transition timeline look like?
How can a constructive co-ownership structure be established?

An ownership transition affects many stakeholders. Customers, employees, and other interested parties may feel uncertain when they learn that the company is changing hands. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider when and how information is communicated.

Tax considerations also play a critical role for anyone selling or transferring a business. Tax regulations can be complex, and we are happy to assist with these matters. By preparing early, you improve the chances of achieving an outcome that benefits both you and the future owner.

Our advisers help plan and execute ownership transitions from a holistic perspective. Because these processes often unfold over an extended period, our experience with owner-managed businesses is an asset in guiding you through every stage of the transition.

External Sale

Selling your business is a major decision, and one you do not want to regret. What matters most to you when choosing a buyer? Is the purchase price the only consideration, or are you looking for a specific type of buyer who is the best fit for your company?

A business transaction is a complex process, and costly mistakes can occur if every aspect is not managed properly. Be prepared to invest significant time and energy. Thorough preparation at an early stage and a clearly defined vision of what you want to achieve are essential.

We provide support throughout the entire transaction process. This includes everything from establishing value expectations and identifying potential buyers to approaching the market and ultimately completing the transaction on the best possible terms. We also identify tax risks associated with a transaction, advise on how these should be managed, and ensure that our clients have a tax-efficient structure in place.

We assist companies of all sizes. For larger transactions, our Corporate Finance department specializes in financial advisory services related to mergers and acquisitions and other corporate transactions. In 2018, BDO Corporate Finance acted as advisor in 23 transactions in Sweden, ranking us among the three leading financial advisors in the small-cap segment according to the Thomson Reuters M&A League Table.

Quick Tips for Buying or Selling a Business

Start planning early.
Clearly define both financial and strategic expectations
Ensure that all certifications, permits, and agreements are in place.
Review your corporate structure and any shareholder agreements.