Engagement Overview
A search fund entrepreneur had a thesis around consolidating fragmented specialty retail in a growing metro area. The challenge: no platform yet, limited M&A experience, and ambitious timeline to build scale before market conditions changed.
The Challenge
Rollup strategies require executing multiple transactions while simultaneously integrating prior acquisitions, a demanding coordination challenge.
Deal Complexity
- No existing platform to leverage
- Multiple sellers with different motivations
- Varying deal structures required
Integration Challenges
- Varying vendor relationships
- Key employee retention critical
The Strategy
We developed a systematic rollup playbook that could be repeated across acquisitions:
Platform Selection
Identified ideal platform acquisition with strong management, clean operations, and capacity to absorb add-ons.
Deal Sourcing Engine
Built proprietary sourcing process that surfaced off-market opportunities through direct outreach and broker relationships.
Repeatable DD Process
Standardized due diligence templates and checklists that accelerated review while maintaining thoroughness.
Q1 2023
Platform Deal
- Platform acquired
- Management retained
- Playbook drafted
Q2-Q3 2023
- POS consolidated
- Vendor negotiated
Q4 2023
Integration Focus
- Synergies captured
- Brand unified
- Playbook refined
Q1-Q2 2024
- Regional coverage
- Scale achieved
Platform Built
- Regional market leader position
Value Creation
- Positioned for strategic exit
Key Takeaway
Search Fund CEO