(Australia-specific?) experience with acquiring trades businesses?
Hi All, Looking for help/advice from those who have acquired or are looking to acquire trades businesses - particularly relatively small ones (think 3-10 techs where the Owner says they’re “on the tools only because they love it”) Think sparkies, HVAC, plumbing (incl gas fitting), refrigeration, etc. Specifically interested in: - Licensing and how to de-risk this, also considering you may not want the vendor to stick around (fairly open ended). Note: I am mindful of personal vs business licensing. - Incentivising key employees to stay post-acquisition and building a talent pipeline (apprentices, lateral hires) when you’re only running half a dozen or so techs. - Deal structuring pre-NBIO/LOI around transition, warranties, hitting milestones and employee retention. How to ensure the licenced tradies don't walk out or hold you hostage! Aside from that I have worked with tradies in the past and am culturally well aware of what I’m getting into! Am keen to connect, please comment or slide into my DM and this might be easier to dive into on a call - thank you! Jerom