Lipman acknowledges that running a business has been incredibly difficult in the past few years following stresses such as Brexit, Covid-19, and the cost-of-living crisis, especially as many Bounce Back Loans and CBILS liabilities are now “weighing heavy” on balance sheets. Lipman says: “In an industry which relies on other companies staying in business, widespread financial and economic instability can have a disastrous knock-on effect on the print industry. Couple this with staying relevant in an increasingly digital age, the need to adapt or risk being left behind has been weighing on the shoulders of those within the industry for many years.” Despite the difficulties being felt by businesses, Lipman says a merge or buyout can be an extremely welcome prospect, especially as it can mean overcoming other oncoming obstacles. Lipman explains: “For those larger more traditional print houses which have failed to pivot their operations to better suit changing consumer preferences, the acquisition of a smaller start-up who has built its business on serving clients in the digital age, can be the quickest and most cost-effective way of expanding operations and securing a share of the marketplace they are currently unable to appeal to.” When it comes to Lipman’s advice, he prioritises seeking sector-specific advice from an industry expert who can understand the problems you or your business may be facing. Lipman adds: “You should ensure you are working with the correct financial professionals, with the right accountants or your internal financial director or external advisory body – this is key. Being transparent and being very aware of where the business is currently and where the future lies. “Analysing budgets is also important as you need to make sure they fall in line and that any adjustments can and will be made to take on the changes. Constant reviewing with the right meaningful information is also vital as it offers business and finance shifts. It can be a smooth process, but in acquisitions everything always comes down to the detail.” As evident by the comments supplied in this article, buying a business is not a simple process. Several factors need to be considered, and buying a business isn’t always the answer to all solutions. Taking too long to act can also be detrimental, and certain opportunities may only come around every so often. By following the advice of professionals such as those in this article, you can be rest assured you’d be in a better position to grow your business. The value of inward M&As involving UK companies increased to £19.2bn in the first quarter of 2025 according to the Office for National Statistics £19.2bn In an industry which relies on other companies staying in business, widespread financial and economic instability can have a disastrous knock-on effect on the print industry ▲ Mark Nelson, director of Compass Business Finance ▼ Graeme Lipman, print specialist and director at Begbies Traynor Group BUYING A PRINT BUSINESS 54 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2025 - Issue 355
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