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 […]
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% […]
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 […]
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 […]
The ESG Impact on M&A in Manufacturing
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are reshaping the landscape of mergers and acquisitions, especially in the Mainstreet and Lower Middle Market (LMM) manufacturing sector, as regulatory standards tighten and stakeholder expectations rise. ESG is no longer just a concern for large corporations; it’s now a key differentiator in deals ranging from $1M to $50M […]
M&A Trends 2025: What Small and Mid-Sized Businesses Need to Know
Looking at the 2025 M&A Trends, the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market has significantly shifted in recent years. While deal volumes surged during the post-pandemic rebound, rising interest rates, inflation, and geopolitical uncertainty brought a wave of caution. Yet, despite these headwinds, small and mid-sized businesses have continued to draw attention from buyers, especially those […]
Legal Challenges in M&A Deals and How to Address Them
Introduction Mergers and acquisitions offer exciting opportunities for growth and innovation. However, when companies merge, the complexities and legal challenges in M&A get much trickier. A successful M&A deal starts with carefully drafted agreements, adherence to legal guidelines, and obtaining all necessary approvals. All of these help lay a solid foundation for future success. Legal […]
Types of M&A Deal Structures
Introduction Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are complex transactions that shape a company’s future. M&A deal structures determines how ownership, the target company’s assets, liabilities, and financial terms are transferred between two companies. It impacts tax obligations, legal risks, and long-term business success. There’s no universal approach to structuring an acquisition deal. Some involve a wholly […]
Building a balanced portfolio: a guide for novices
A well-defined statement helps participants focus their creativity and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Is Now the Right Time to Sell or Buy? — How COVID-19 has Changed the Market
The global economy has taken a massive hit from the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses have been forced to shut down as the government places strict restrictions to curb the pandemic. Many small business owners are contemplating selling out to cut their losses, while the optimistic entrepreneur is wondering whether the situation is conducive for buying.So, […]










