January 2026 marked a turning point after 12 consecutive months below expansion territory. In one of the first major economic data points of 2026, the U.S. manufacturing sector reversed a year-long contraction trend by posting a Manufacturing PMI® reading of 52.6% in January, up 4.7 percentage points from December’s 47.9%. A PMI reading above 50 signals […]
Employee Retention and Leadership Alignment in Manufacturing M&A
When a manufacturing company is acquired, the biggest variable isn’t the machinery; it’s the people. Missteps in leadership alignment, communication, or employee retention can quickly slow production, fracture culture, and erode the value you expect from the deal. This guide outlines eight essential steps to help manufacturing owners and operators keep teams aligned, reduce turnover, […]
The Green Premium: How ESG is Reshaping Manufacturing M&A
The world of manufacturing mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is rapidly changing. In the current market, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors are no longer optional for manufacturing business owners. Whether you’re preparing to sell, planning to acquire, or simply aiming to maximize your company’s value, a deep understanding of ESG is essential. More than 70% […]
10 Things Buyers Look for in Manufacturing Quality of Earnings
When it comes to mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the manufacturing sector, buyers aren’t just glancing at standard financial statements. They want a manufacturing Quality of Earnings (QoE) report that highlights only the actual, sustainable earnings that reflect ongoing performance. If you’re a manufacturing owner considering a sale or a buyer looking to make a […]
OSHA and Safety Compliance Red Flags in Manufacturing M&A
When it comes to buying or selling a manufacturing business, the numbers on the balance sheet are only part of the story. Increasingly, buyers are scrutinizing OSHA and safety compliance in business sales as a critical factor in their due diligence process. Why? Because safety issues can lead to costly fines, operational disruptions, and even […]
Top 10 Questions to Ask When Hiring an M&A Advisor
Are you a manufacturing business owner thinking about selling your company? Finding an M&A advisor who truly understands your industry can make or break your sale. But with so many advisors out there, how do you know who to trust? The right questions to ask an M&A advisor can help you avoid costly mistakes and […]
Beginner’s Guide to Manufacturing Mergers: Step-by-Step Guide for Main Street and Middle Market Owners
Introduction Many owners of manufacturing companies in the Main Street and Lower Middle Market are exploring mergers as a strategic way to grow, improve efficiency, and strengthen their market position. But navigating a manufacturing merger can be complex, involving many stages and considerations unique to this sector. This beginner’s guide is designed to walk you […]
Top Considerations When Selling a Family-Owned Business
Selling a family-owned business is a significant and often emotional milestone. For many owners, their business represents decades of hard work, family legacy, and personal sacrifice. Whether you are a family business owner contemplating an exit or a prospective buyer interested in acquiring a family-owned business, understanding the unique complexities involved is essential. This post […]
What It Means to Be Named a Notable M&A Dealmaker by Crain’s Cleveland Business
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are key moments that can lead to growth, change, and long-term value. When handled well, they create pathways for business growth, generational transitions, and new investment in the regional economy. When mishandled, they can leave value on the table or derail years of hard work. That’s why strong leadership and expertise […]
Buy-Side vs. Sell-Side Advisory: What M&A Advisors Do for Each
Whether you’re buying or selling a business, you’ll encounter two types of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory. One is sell-side advisory, which represents business owners looking to exit their businesses. The other is buy-side advisory, which supports buyers seeking to acquire companies. Buying or selling a business involves complex negotiations, financial risks, and strategic decisions. […]