Tag Archive for: ExitPlanning

Hibbs & Associates, PLLC has been acquired by CPA Innovations, LLC

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ABOUT THE TRANSACTION:

Hibbs & Associates, PLLC (also referred to as the “Company” and “Sellers”) has been acquired by CPA Innovations, LLC (the “Buyers”).

Established in 1984 and headquartered in Bardstown, Kentucky, Hibbs & Associates, PLLC operates a full-service accounting firm. The firm provides individual and business tax preparation, estate and trust services, bookkeeping, payroll, and small business consulting. The team also supports retirement planning, estate planning, and non-profit consulting. Additionally, several staff members hold Notary Public certifications for situations that require notarization. The firm delivers accounting services that improve efficiencies, control costs, and maximize profits for their growth-focused clients. The team aims to serve as a long-term strategic partner to its clients.

CPA Innovations, LLC launched in 2019 to help accounting and finance firms compete and expand margins in a challenging market. The firm partners with Indian Chartered Accountants who bring top-tier tax and advisory experience. CPA Innovations delivers customized solutions to accounting firms. These solutions improve margins on finance and accounting services for their clients.

Allston Advisory Group served as the exclusive financial advisors to the Sellers, Hibbs & Associates, PLLC. Allston conducted the Company’s valuation assessment, prepared a detailed confidential memorandum, and managed the sale process for the Sellers. The team supported buyer due diligence and maintained strict confidentiality throughout the transaction. Consequently, the deal delivered liquidity to the Sellers and introduced a forward-looking new owner for employees.

ABOUT ALLSTON ADVISORY GROUP:

Allston Advisory Group is an experienced M&A advisory firm providing mergers & acquisitions, business valuations, and exit strategies, to lower middle market companies. The firm has an established track record of serving corporate clients across a broad spectrum of industries throughout the United States. Allston Advisory Group has the experience, professional fortitude, and quality of work that enable the firm to consistently deliver high-level results to its clients.

For additional information on this deal, please contact one of our advisors.

River City Glass & Mirror, Inc. has been acquired by the Management Team

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ABOUT THE TRANSACTION:

River City Glass & Mirror, Inc. (also referred to as the “Company” and “Sellers”) has been acquired by the Management Team (the “Buyers”).

River City Glass & Mirror, Inc. launched in April 1993 and operates from Louisville, Kentucky. The family owned company specializes in custom glass products and services, including windows, mirrors, and frameless shower doors. Additionally, skilled technicians handle installations for residential and commercial projects. The team delivers precise workmanship and ensures proper installation on every job. The Company built a strong reputation by prioritizing customer service and understanding each client’s needs. The team provides cost-effective solutions and high-quality work that enhance the value of homes and businesses.

Allston Advisory Group served as the exclusive financial advisors to the Sellers, River City Glass & Mirror, Inc. Allston conducted the Company’s valuation, prepared a detailed confidential memorandum, and managed the sale process for the Sellers. The team supported buyer due diligence and maintained strict confidentiality throughout the process. Consequently, the transaction delivered liquidity to the Sellers and created an ownership opportunity for the management team.

ABOUT ALLSTON ADVISORY GROUP:

Allston Advisory Group is an experienced M&A advisory firm providing mergers & acquisitions, business valuations, and exit strategies, to lower middle market companies. The firm has an established track record of serving corporate clients across a broad spectrum of industries throughout the United States. Allston Advisory Group has the experience, professional fortitude, and quality of work that enable the firm to consistently deliver high-level results to its clients.

For additional information on this transaction, please contact one of our advisors.

Louisville Sign Company, Inc. has been acquired by B Sign Group

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ABOUT THE TRANSACTION:

Louisville Sign Company, Inc. (also referred to as the “Company” and “Sellers”) has been acquired by B Sign Group (the “Buyers”).

Louisville Sign Company, Inc. launched in 1996 and operates from Mt. Washington, Kentucky. The family-owned company designs, manufactures, and installs a wide range of signage products. The team produces monument signs, channel letters, sign cabinets, sign faces, neon signs, vinyl signs and custom signage. Additionally, skilled technicians bring over 20 years of industry experience. Each technician also holds a licensed electrician credential.

The Bottom Sign Company began operations in April 1955 in New Albany, Indiana. Brothers Bob and Joe Bottom founded the company and built its early reputation. They emphasized customer service and delivered high-quality signage. In 2005, Joey Bates, a family friend, acquired the company from the second generation. He expanded operations and strengthened the company’s market position. In 2017, he acquired Eagle Sign & Design and formed B Sign Group. Joey Bates and his team developed B Sign Group into a regional leader. The company now specializes in custom signs, vehicle wraps, and comprehensive sign services.

Allston Advisory Group served as the exclusive financial advisors to the Sellers, Louisville Sign Company, Inc. Allston established a valuation assessment of the Company, prepared a thorough confidential information memorandum, assisted with the Buyer’s due diligence, helped the Buyers obtain financing for the transaction, and facilitated the confidential sale process on behalf of the Sellers. Consequently, the transaction satisfied the Seller’s desires for liquidity as well as provide employees with a reputable and customer-focused new owner.

ABOUT ALLSTON ADVISORY GROUP:

Allston Advisory Group is an experienced M&A advisory firm providing mergers & acquisitions, business valuations, and exit strategies, to lower middle market companies. The firm has an established track record of serving corporate clients across a broad spectrum of industries throughout the United States. Allston Advisory Group has the experience, professional fortitude, and quality of work that enable the firm to consistently deliver high-level results to its clients.

For additional information on this transaction, please contact one of our advisors.

volatility; uncertainty

COVID-19 Pandemic: This Too Shall Pass

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After two months of a global economic shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the outlook for lower middle market mergers and acquisitions remains uncertain. Buyers, sellers, lenders, and advisors continue assessing the long-term economic impact, making it difficult to predict when transaction activity will recover.

Many strategic buyers have adopted a wait-and-see approach to acquisitions. Rather than pursuing growth opportunities, they are preserving liquidity, stabilizing operations, and protecting their core businesses. Financial buyers, including private equity firms, have also shifted their attention inward. They are supporting existing portfolio companies, strengthening balance sheets, and ensuring those businesses have sufficient capital to weather the economic disruption.

Potential sellers should not despair. According to PwC’s report, Succeeding through M&A in Uncertain Economic Times, U.S. public companies now hold more than four times as much cash as they did a quarter-century ago. Additionally, private equity firms control record levels of undeployed capital, commonly referred to as “dry powder.” Although many investors have temporarily paused acquisitions, they must eventually deploy that capital when market conditions stabilize and confidence returns.

Business owners contemplating a liquidity event should begin planning now instead of waiting for conditions to improve. Early preparation allows owners to strengthen financial reporting, improve operations, and identify opportunities to maximize value before entering the market. Additionally, they should consult with an experienced M&A advisory team to develop a thoughtful exit strategy and prepare for buyer scrutiny.

A decline in financial performance resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic is both expected and understandable. Buyers will recognize these temporary disruptions, but they will closely evaluate how your company and management team respond to adversity. Companies that preserve customer relationships, control costs, adapt operations, and maintain profitability will stand out in the marketplace. Those actions will strengthen buyer confidence and help maximize value when M&A activity resumes.

COVID-19 Impact on M&A

COVID-19’s Impact on M&A

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Many merger and acquisition processes are on hold while buyers and sellers seek greater clarity on COVID-19’s health and economic effects. COVID-19’s impact on M&A continues to reshape transaction planning, buyer expectations, and deal execution. Although transaction activity has slowed, companies continue preparing for future opportunities as markets adjust to rapidly changing conditions.

Business owners considering a sale should expect the pandemic to influence nearly every stage of the acquisition process. Buyers, lenders, and advisors are reassessing risk, valuation, and transaction structures. As a result, successful transactions will require greater planning, flexibility, and collaboration than before.

Several areas now deserve increased attention.

Preparing for Sale. Business owners should determine whether now is the right time to pursue a transaction. They should also evaluate current valuations and consider whether buyers will recognize the company’s long-term value despite recent disruptions.

Timing. Transactions will likely require additional time to complete. Travel restrictions, remote work, lender requirements, and extended due diligence may delay the closing process.

Due Diligence. Buyers will conduct more extensive due diligence across financial, legal, operational, and commercial matters. They will closely examine force majeure provisions, supply chain risks, emergency preparedness, employee matters, and insurance coverage.

Acquisition Agreements. Buyers and sellers should expect increased negotiation over risk allocation. Acquisition agreements may include expanded representations and warranties, interim operating covenants, earn-outs, additional closing conditions, termination rights, and special indemnification provisions addressing COVID-19-related findings.

Financing. Buyers should confirm that attractive long-term financing remains available before committing to a transaction. Lenders may impose additional underwriting requirements or modify financing terms as market conditions evolve.

Business owners should work closely with experienced M&A advisors throughout this period. Professional guidance can help navigate market volatility, manage transaction risk, and position a company for a successful sale when conditions improve.

The Doomsday Ratio

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Is your company prepared to survive a doomsday scenario? Economic uncertainty can emerge quickly and challenge even well-managed businesses. Without meaningful financial measurements, business owners may struggle to understand how their companies are truly performing.

Financial ratios provide objective benchmarks for evaluating a company’s financial health. They convert information from the income statement and balance sheet into standardized measurements. Owners can compare those measurements over time, against competitors, or across the broader industry. These comparisons often reveal strengths, weaknesses, and trends that traditional financial statements may not immediately identify.

Liquidity ratios deserve special attention during periods of economic uncertainty. These ratios measure a company’s ability to satisfy short-term obligations without raising additional capital. Strong liquidity provides flexibility, supports daily operations, and helps businesses withstand unexpected disruptions.

Common liquidity ratios include the current ratio, quick ratio, days sales outstanding, and the Doomsday Ratio. Each ratio measures liquidity from a different perspective and provides valuable insight into financial stability.

The Doomsday Ratio offers the most conservative measure of liquidity. It assumes the worst possible operating environment and ignores every current asset except cash and cash equivalents. The ratio is calculated by dividing cash and cash equivalents by current liabilities. The result indicates whether available cash can satisfy short-term obligations without relying on receivables, inventory, or external financing.

The Doomsday Ratio becomes even more valuable when tracked over time. A declining ratio may signal increasing financial pressure before more serious problems develop. An improving ratio may indicate stronger cash management and greater financial resilience.

No single financial ratio tells the entire story. Business owners should evaluate multiple ratios together and consider industry benchmarks when assessing financial performance. An experienced M&A advisory team can help interpret these measurements, identify potential risks, and recommend strategies that strengthen financial performance before a crisis occurs.

Delta Services, LLC has been acquired by The State Group, Inc.

Delta Services, LLC has been acquired by The State Group, Inc.

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ABOUT THE TRANSACTION:

Delta Services, LLC (the “Company” or “Delta”) has been acquired by The State Group Inc.

DELTA SERVICES, LLC:

The Company launched in 2004 and operates from Louisville, Kentucky. Delta Services functions as a privately owned, bonded, and fully insured electrical contractor. The team delivers electrical construction, communication systems, fire and security systems, safety services, utility distribution, and PLC controls. Delta operates across Kentucky, Southern Indiana and surrounding states. The Company employs over 230 union electricians and 35 additional staff members.

THE STATE GROUP, INC.:

The State Group launched in 1961 and operates from Toronto, Canada. The company provides comprehensive electrical and mechanical trade services to Fortune 100 clients. It serves the power generation, automotive, oil and gas, communications, metals and transportation industries. The State Group is backed by New York-based private equity firm, Blue Wolf Capital Partners LLC, and Vancouver-based private equity firm, Yellow Point Equity Partners. The company operates 18 offices throughout the United States and Canada. Additionally, it employs over 800 professionals and skilled trades people across eleven crafts. These teams complete nearly 2,000 projects each year. They repair, maintain and construct critical infrastructure. The team prioritizes safety and delivers consistent, high-quality execution.

“Our successful sale to State Group is a testament to our team’s collective effort to be the best in providing high quality, value added electrical solutions for our customers and to our commitment to the local communities we serve,” said Kevin Waldron, President of Delta Services. “We’re excited to join State Group as we begin the next chapter of Delta Services’ growth and success.”

“The addition of Delta Services provides an exciting opportunity to partner with a company aligned with our own values in prioritizing quality of service, not price,” said Thomas Santoni, President and CEO of The State Group. “Delta Services has a strong brand built on a foundation of nearly 40 years of high quality service. We are proud to welcome Kevin and the entire Delta team into the State Group family as we grow our existing business in Louisville and expand our footprint into greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

Allston Advisory Group served as the exclusive financial advisor to Delta Services, LLC, and conducted a confidential, competitive sale process that included both strategic and financial buyers.

ABOUT ALLSTON ADVISORY GROUP:

Allston Advisory Group is an experienced M&A advisory firm providing mergers & acquisitions, business valuations, and exit strategies, to lower middle market companies. The firm has an established track record of serving corporate clients across a broad spectrum of industries throughout the United States. Allston Advisory Group has the experience, professional fortitude, and quality of work that enable the firm to consistently deliver high-level results to its clients.

For additional information on this transaction, please contact one of our advisors.

NEWS SOURCES: 

Business Wire

EC&M

Crunchbase

Bloomberg

Comstock Brothers Electric Company, LLC has been acquired by The State Group, Inc.

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ABOUT THE TRANSACTION:

Comstock Brothers Electric Company, LLC (the “Company” or “Comstock”) has been acquired by The State Group Inc.

COMSTOCK BROTHERS ELECTRIC COMPANY, LLC:

The Company launched in 1999 and operates from Louisville, Kentucky. Comstock functions as a privately owned, bonded, and fully licensed electrical contractor. The team delivers power distribution, electrical construction, process controls, conveyors, and package handling solutions. Additionally, Comstock serves automotive clients and provides design-build and electrical testing services. Comstock Brothers Electric Company creates value through responsive service, strong diagnostic capabilities, and reliable execution. The team meets critical deadlines and consistently “Exceeds Energy Expectations.”

THE STATE GROUP, INC.:

The State Group launched in 1961 and operates from Toronto, Canada. The company provides comprehensive electrical and mechanical trade services to Fortune 100 clients. It serves the power generation, automotive, oil and gas, communications, metals and transportation industries. The State Group is backed by New York-based private equity firm, Blue Wolf Capital Partners LLC, and Vancouver-based private equity firm, Yellow Point Equity Partners. The company operates 18 offices throughout the United States and Canada. Additionally, it employs over 800 professionals and skilled trades people across eleven crafts. These teams complete nearly 2,000 projects each year. They repair, maintain and construct critical infrastructure. The team prioritizes safety and delivers consistent, high-quality execution.

Allston Advisory Group served as the exclusive financial advisor to the Comstock Brothers Electric Company, LLC, and conducted a confidential, competitive sale process that included both strategic and private equity buyers.

ABOUT ALLSTON ADVISORY GROUP:

Allston Advisory Group is an experienced M&A advisory firm providing mergers & acquisitions, business valuations, and exit strategies, to lower middle market companies. The firm has an established track record of serving corporate clients across a broad spectrum of industries throughout the United States. Allston Advisory Group has the experience, professional fortitude, and quality of work that enable the firm to consistently deliver high-level results to its clients.

For additional information on this deal, please contact one of our advisors.

Express Waste Removal and Recycling has been Acquired by a Private Investment Group

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ABOUT THE DEAL:

Express Waste Removal and Recycling (“the “Company” or “Sellers”) has been acquired by a private investment group (the “Buyer”).

Headquartered in Ellettsville, Indiana, Express Waste Removal and Recycling has provided dependable, cost-effective waste collection and recycling services to residential and commercial customers throughout Bloomington, Ellettsville, and the surrounding Monroe County area for more than a decade. Throughout its history, the Company established a reputation for exceptional customer service, reliable operations, and disciplined route density. These strengths supported consistent growth and created a scalable operating platform that attracted buyer interest.

The acquisition positions the Company for continued growth while providing the Sellers with a successful ownership transition. Furthermore, the transaction allows the Buyer to expand its presence in an attractive market through an established business with a loyal customer base and an experienced operating platform.

Allston Advisory Group served as the exclusive financial advisor to Express Waste Removal and Recycling throughout the transaction. The engagement included a business valuation, transaction planning, buyer identification, coordination of due diligence, negotiation support, and management of a confidential sale process. By creating a competitive marketplace among qualified buyers, Allston helped position the Company to achieve the Sellers’ liquidity objectives while maintaining strict confidentiality throughout the transaction.

The successful completion of this transaction reflects the importance of careful planning, disciplined execution, and effective collaboration among the Sellers, Buyer, and professional advisors. Allston Advisory Group is proud to have represented Express Waste Removal and Recycling during this important milestone.

ABOUT ALLSTON ADVISORY GROUP, LLC:

Allston Advisory Group is an experienced mergers and acquisitions advisory firm serving lower middle market businesses throughout the United States. The firm provides sell-side advisory, business valuations, and exit planning services across diverse industries. Allston combines transaction expertise with personalized client service to help business owners maximize value and achieve successful outcomes.

For additional information on this transaction, please contact one of our advisors.

PEDIA RESEARCH, LLC HAS BEEN ACQUIRED BY QUALMEDICA RESEARCH, LLC

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ABOUT THE TRANSACTION:

Pedia Research, LLC (“Pedia” or the “Company”) has been acquired by Qualmedica Research, LLC (“Qualmedica” or the “Buyer”).

Headquartered in Evansville, Indiana, Pedia Research, LLC has conducted clinical research for pharmaceutical and healthcare organizations for more than twenty years. The Company operates with a focused mission of “Improving Health Through Research.”

Pedia’s multidisciplinary team includes physicians, scientists, nurses, study coordinators, and administrative specialists. Together, they conduct clinical studies involving infants, children, adolescents, and adults. These studies help evaluate the safety and efficacy of new and improved pharmaceutical and healthcare products.

Throughout its history, Pedia has provided important clinical research data to pharmaceutical companies developing treatments for various diseases and conditions. Additionally, the Company advances medical knowledge through published research findings and contributions to scientific literature. Pedia has also developed innovative approaches to participant recruitment and clinical trial execution. These capabilities have strengthened the Company’s relationships with sponsors and supported its commitment to efficient, high-quality clinical research.

Qualmedica Research, LLC is a multi-site clinical research organization with more than twenty years of experience conducting pharmaceutical research. The company partners with physicians and sponsors to advance safe, effective, and meaningful therapeutics for patients. Furthermore, Qualmedica conducts Phase II, III, and IV clinical trials across a broad range of therapeutic areas. Its customer base includes more than 100 pharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations.

The acquisition brings together two experienced clinical research organizations with complementary capabilities and a shared commitment to advancing patient health. Moreover, the transaction provides Pedia with additional resources and infrastructure to support its continued development.

Allston Advisory Group served as the exclusive financial advisor to Pedia Research, LLC throughout the transaction process. Allston performed an Analysis of Value and developed a confidential marketing strategy for the Company. Additionally, Allston identified prospective buyers and managed a competitive sale process on behalf of the Sellers. As the transaction progressed, Allston coordinated buyer communications, assisted with due diligence, and supported negotiations through closing. These efforts helped maintain transaction momentum while allowing Pedia’s leadership to remain focused on the business.

ABOUT ALLSTON ADVISORY GROUP, LLC:

Allston Advisory Group is an independent mergers and acquisitions advisory firm serving lower middle market businesses throughout the United States. The firm provides sell-side advisory, business valuations, and exit planning services to privately held companies across diverse industries. Allston combines practical transaction experience with a disciplined and confidential approach to mergers and acquisitions. The firm works closely with business owners to understand their objectives and manage each stage of the transaction process.

For additional information about this transaction, please contact one of our advisors.

Allston Advisory Group is an experienced boutique M&A advisory firm providing a variety of services to lower middle market companies. See our footer for contact information.

(502) 742-2933
[email protected]
P.O. Box 21266, Louisville, KY 40221

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