Industry Focus · Manufacturing
Selling a manufacturing business?
We help owners of Australian manufacturing businesses prepare for a sale and run it, often when one generation is ready to step back. We understand the people and the years of investment behind a business like yours.
01 · Coverage
Sectors we serve.
Manufacturing is not one market. The buyer pool changes with every sub-sector.
- Contract manufacturing
- Precision machining and metal fabrication
- Plastics and injection moulding
- Food, beverage and packaging
- Medical devices
- Industrial equipment
- Aerospace and electronics
- Specialty materials and chemicals
By the numbers · Indicative
12mo
Typical earn-out length
12 – 24mo
Founder stays after completion
ISO 9001
Plus AS9100 and TGA: certifications buyers pay for
02 · Market dynamics
What's driving M&A right now.
- Onshoring. Buyers are paying more for Australian manufacturing capability.
- Automation. Businesses that have invested are selling at a premium. The rest are falling behind.
- Generational change. Owners across the sector are stepping back, which keeps deals coming.
03 · Value drivers
What buyers pay for.
Plant value sits on the balance sheet. The real premium is in the things that take years to build.
- Contracted customer relationships
- Quality certifications: ISO 9001, AS9100, TGA
- A skilled team, with apprentices coming through
- Customers spread across end markets
Certified, specialised capability commands a premium.”
04 · Mechanics
How deals are structured, and what catches owners out.
Property, stock and plant condition all shape the final price.
- Property is often a separate deal. Sale and leaseback is common where owners hold the site personally.
- Stock at handover is negotiated. How much stock and cash stays in the business changes what you walk away with.
- Founders usually stay on. Expect 12 to 24 months after completion to hand over.
Ageing plant is the discount we see most often.
- Ageing plant. Machines due for replacement come off the price, even though the cost hasn't reached your accounts.
- One big customer. When a single large manufacturer customer drives the revenue, buyers price in the risk of losing it.
- Environmental liabilities. Contamination on property you own.
Other industries we focus on
Selling in manufacturing?
Start a confidential conversation.
If succession is on your mind, talk to us before a buyer walks your factory floor. The first call is confidential and carries no obligation.
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