How do I find suitable target companies?

A systematic target search starts with a precise search profile: sector, business model, size range, region, soft criteria like culture and ownership structure. From this profile we build a long list of possible targets, approach them discreetly and qualify them in several stages. The truly attractive companies are often not on the open market — they can only be reached through direct, confidential outreach.

How long does an acquisition take?

From sharpening the search profile to closing, buyers should realistically plan for nine to eighteen months. Target search and initial outreach often take the largest share, because serious sellers need time and weigh parallel options. After agreement in principle, due diligence, contract negotiation and closing typically take three to six months.

What does buy-side advisory cost?

Typically a manageable retainer for the search phase combined with a success fee payable only on closing. The exact structure and amount depend on the search profile, complexity and depth of support — we discuss approach and fees transparently before any engagement.

Services · M&A Buy Side

Buying a company — acquisitions and add-ons, executed with rigour.

Acquisitions are one of the most powerful growth levers — when they are strategically right, fairly priced and can actually be integrated. In the DACH region the most attractive targets are rarely on the open market; they can only be reached through a systematic, discreet target search.

IGCP Capital Partners has supported acquirers on acquisitions and add-on purchases for more than 20 years. Across more than 100 M&A processes we have structured search work, negotiations and contract closings — independent of banks and investors, exclusively on the buy side.

Acquisition as a growth strategy

A good acquisition expands your business faster than organic growth could: new markets, technologies, customer access, employees with scarce know-how, or scale benefits in the existing structure. The prerequisite is an honest M&A strategy — the sober question of what you are buying, why, and what the integration plan looks like.

Add-on acquisitions — the targeted purchase of smaller companies fitting a platform — are a proven model especially for owner-led companies and in buy-and-build strategies of private equity firms. They work because size, market and know-how benefits compound with each acquisition.

From search profile to closing

A professional buy-side process follows a clear sequence. It begins with the search profile: sector, business model, size band, region, complementary soft criteria. From this profile we build a long list of potential targets, which we prioritise into a short list.

Next comes the discreet outreach to owners — usually via personal first contact under strict confidentiality. From their reactions a pipeline of qualified conversations develops.

When there is serious mutual interest, due diligence begins — the structured review of the target across finance, legal, tax, market and operations. What due diligence specifically means and what buyers should look out for is explained in What is due diligence?.

Negotiation of the share purchase agreement (SPA) and closing follow. Tax and legal structuring as well as contract documentation are handled by tax advisors and lawyers — IGCP negotiates the commercial terms and steers the overall process on behalf of the buyer.

What makes a good acquisition

A good acquisition is not decided by price alone, but by three questions: does the target really fit the strategy? Are the assumptions on synergies, growth and risks robust? Can the company actually be integrated — culturally, organisationally, technically?

The most expensive acquisitions are the ones where one of these answers was not given honestly. We therefore deliberately take time for the strategy and pre-screening phase — and walk away when a target is available but not right. Our success is measured by the outcome after the transaction, not by deal count.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find suitable target companies?: A systematic target search starts with a precise search profile: sector, business model, size range, region, soft criteria like culture and ownership structure. From this profile we build a long list of possible targets, approach them discreetly and qualify them in several stages. The truly attractive companies are often not on the open market — they can only be reached through direct, confidential outreach.
How long does an acquisition take?: From sharpening the search profile to closing, buyers should realistically plan for nine to eighteen months. Target search and initial outreach often take the largest share, because serious sellers need time and weigh parallel options. After agreement in principle, due diligence, contract negotiation and closing typically take three to six months.
What does buy-side advisory cost?: Typically a manageable retainer for the search phase combined with a success fee payable only on closing. The exact structure and amount depend on the search profile, complexity and depth of support — we discuss approach and fees transparently before any engagement.

Related insights

If you are considering an acquisition, we will refine strategy and search profile with you — confidentially and without obligation.

Request a confidential talk