AU - Exit Strategies

Not All Exits are Equal: Finding the Right Strategy for Your Business

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Smart Exit Planning for Profit, People, and Purpose

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Exit with Purpose: Aligning Strategy with Your Goals

Deciding how and when to exit your business can shape not only your financial future, but also the legacy you leave behind. Not all exit strategies deliver the same outcomes. Some paths are quick and simple, while others take time and planning but deliver higher value and stronger legacies.

This webinar explores the full range of exit planning strategies available to business owners. You will learn how to evaluate the advantages and risks of different pathways, and how to match the right strategy to your personal and financial goals.

Learning Highlights

Understand the different exit strategies available, from trade sales and private equity to employee ownership and IPOs.
Learn how to balance financial return, legacy, and timing when choosing your path.
Identify the key tax considerations that impact valuation and final outcomes.
Discover how staged exits can lock in key people, reduce founder dependence, and maximise long-term value.
Gain practical insights into preparing your business for a successful transition.

Q1. What are the most common exit strategies for medium-sized businesses?

The main options include trade sales, strategic sales, private equity investment, employee ownership, family transfer, management buyout, and in rare cases, an IPO.

Q2. How do I know which exit strategy is right for my business?

The right strategy depends on factors such as your financial goals, desired timeline, level of involvement after exit, family circumstances, and the culture you want to preserve.

Q3. When should I start planning my exit?

Ideally, exit planning should begin three to five years before the intended exit. This allows time to prepare the business, improve valuation, and address tax and legal considerations.

Q4. What impact does timing have on exit outcomes?

Exiting in a rush often leads to lower valuation and limited buyer options. With more time, owners can stage their exit, improve business resilience, and secure higher multiples.

Q5. How does tax planning influence the choice of exit strategy?

Different exits carry different tax outcomes. Early planning helps owners access concessions such as capital gains tax discounts, rollovers, and small business exemptions.

Q6. What is the difference between a trade sale and a strategic sale?

A trade sale is often to a competitor and usually simpler to arrange. A strategic sale is to a buyer who sees unique value in the business and is willing to pay a premium.

Q7. How does private equity fit into exit planning?

Private equity investors provide funding, expertise, and growth opportunities. While this can increase value, owners are usually required to stay involved for a transition period.

Q8. What role does employee ownership play in succession planning?

Employee ownership can protect the company culture, reward staff, and secure continuity. It requires longer preparation but often creates strong legacy outcomes.

Q9. What role do employees play in governance?

Employees benefit collectively but do not typically make day-to-day governance .decisions. A trustee oversees the trust, ensuring the interests of employees are represented.

Q10. What are the long-term benefits of employee ownership?

Businesses see improved employee engagement, cultural continuity, succession stability, and shared financial success. Founders benefit from an exit strategy that balances financial return with legacy goals.