Strategic synergy

How Baker Tilly helped identify targets to support a client’s strategic growth

Many businesses, regardless of size, aspire to grow through strategic acquisitions. But what’s the best way to identify potential acquisition targets in a way that improves the chances of ultimately converting them into a value-enhancing, strategically aligned business?

That was the challenge facing the Visma Group - the largest privately-owned software business in Europe, and a leading provider of cloud accounting and enterprise resourcing planning (ERP) solutions to small and medium-sized businesses. 

After a period of significant international expansion, entering France, Germany, Portugal, Peru and Iceland in the last two years alone, the group is currently in 28 countries with more than 15,000 employees.

They engaged our team in Spain to help them identify and qualify potential acquisitions that would complement their existing portfolio and help them further expand their Iberian market presence.

Finding the perfect partner 

Armed with an in-depth understanding of the business models used in the sector and the key drivers behind technology transactions, our team in Spain carried out extensive market research and financial analysis to assess the potential of multiple targets. 

By undertaking this research on the client’s behalf, we brought a level of intelligence that accelerated the client’s acquisition plans and saved them a significant amount of time.

Aligning ambitions

The outcome of our team’s work was the successful acquisition of two businesses by the Visma Group. 

Enhancing their capabilities and expanding their market reach, both acquisitions enabled the group to better serve their clients – perfectly aligning with the group’s strategic ambitions.