EXIT STRATEGY PLANNING
PREPARING FOR WHAT’S NEXT STARTS NOW
Every business owner will eventually exit their business, whether by choice, necessity, or circumstance. At Allston Advisory Group, we help business owners take control of that future with clearly defined, strategically sound exit plans tailored to their unique objectives. As a trusted M&A advisory firm, we bring decades of transaction experience, technical expertise, and market insight to help owners prepare for and successfully execute one of the most significant financial events of their lives.
WHY A THOUGHTFUL EXIT STRATEGY MATTERS
A well-crafted exit strategy is more than a backup plan. It is a proactive roadmap that outlines how and when a business owner will transition out of the company, and how they will realize the value they’ve built over time. Whether you’re planning to retire, transition leadership to a family member, or sell to a strategic or financial buyer, your exit strategy should reflect your financial goals, legacy considerations, and timeline.
Too often, business owners wait until it’s too late to plan. The most successful exits, however, are the result of early, intentional preparation. Ideally, this begins years in advance. Our team works closely with owners to evaluate all available paths, educate them on the transaction process, and position the business for maximum value when the time is right.
EXIT STRATEGY OPTIONS
Every business and business owner is different. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Below are some of the most common exit strategies that we help clients evaluate and implement:
FAMILY SUCCESSION
Transition ownership to the next generation, either in full or partially, while remaining active in the business or serving in an advisory role. This option often requires advance planning to groom successors, minimize tax exposure, and ensure operational continuity.
MANAGEMENT BUYOUT (MBO)
Sell the business to your existing leadership team. MBOs may be ideal when management is motivated, capable, and aligned with the long-term vision of the company. This type of exit often preserves the business culture and ensures a seamless transition.
STRATEGIC SALE OR CORPORATE DIVESTITURE
Sell to a strategic buyer, often a competitor or industry player, seeking operational synergies, market expansion, or proprietary advantages. Alternatively, financial buyers such as private equity firms may be interested in scaling the business for a later exit. This can be one of the most lucrative options for owners looking to maximize enterprise value.
INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING (IPO)
Taking your company public can offer significant liquidity and prestige. However, it is typically suitable only for high-growth businesses with strong financials and scalable infrastructure. We help evaluate IPO readiness and connect you with the right financial and legal advisors if this path is appropriate.
ASSET SALE OR LIQUIDATION
In cases where a business may not be viable as a going concern, a structured liquidation of assets may be the most appropriate strategy. While typically not the most financially advantageous option, it may allow for partial recovery and potential repositioning.
OUR APPROACH
A successful exit doesn’t happen by chance. It takes careful planning, strategic positioning, and the guidance of experienced advisors. Allston Advisory Group partners with business owners to develop and execute tailored exit strategies that align with their long-term personal and financial goals.
Our advisors:
- Conduct a comprehensive business assessment
- Evaluate the financial, operational, and market readiness for an exit
- Identify the most suitable exit pathways
- Prepare and position the business to attract qualified buyers or successors
- Lead or support transaction execution through closing
Whether your priority is maximizing cash, protecting employees, preserving your legacy, or simply retiring with peace of mind, we will help you identify and navigate the right path forward.
START PLANNING TODAY
The best exit strategy is the one that aligns with your vision and begins well before you think you need it. Contact Allston Advisory Group to schedule a confidential consultation and start building your exit strategy with confidence.
