Sales of Businesses

Business sales can cover a wide range of possibilities which need to be approached in different ways and require a range of expertise which we have developed at Berwins to meet the differing requirements. A corporate transaction typically will involve a larger business both in terms of turnover, workforce and premises, and usually will involve a sale of shares in a limited company. In this instance the acquiring company takes on the whole legal personality of the target company and keeping not only its assets but also its liabilities, tax history, and claims against it. As well as dealing with the different levels of documentation required, the process of thorough investigation known as due diligence needs to be carried out and the outcomes assessed.

 

Larger transactions may not be by way of share sale but may be by way of asset sale, which is the more normal format also for smaller transactions, where the buyer does not acquire the seller’s legal identity but acquires specific assets which will usually include the goodwill of the business, property, equipment, intellectual property and contracts.

In all sales there are a number of issues in common to be taken into account, such as the true ownership of assets, consent of landlords, tax considerations, licences, employment rights, regulatory requirements - to name but a few.

 

Whatever the scale or nature of the sale or purchase transaction, Berwins can assist; the types of business for which we have dealt in recent times include food business, agro chemical businesses, software companies, industrial services and logistics, catering contracts, pharmacies, care homes, retail premises of all types, pubs, hotels - a list which continues to grow.

 

As well as trade sales and purchases we have also dealt with management buyouts, acquisitions, joint ventures, buy-ins and other related forms of transactions. Let us help you make the most of the value of your business