The most attractive private companies are rarely for sale in the conventional sense. Their owners are not running a process – they are waiting for the right conversation.
Time and discretion
An off-market approach gives investors the time to understand a business properly and the discretion owners value. Without the pressure of an auction, both sides can focus on fit rather than price alone.
Shaping the terms
Engaging early allows the investor to shape structure, governance and timing from the outset – often the difference between a good acquisition and a great one.