For many founders, the Exit The big goal is to sell the company, dispose of shares or float it on the stock exchange. However, the right time to sell a company or shares needs to be carefully considered. Selling too early or unprepared can reduce opportunities and profits - leaving it too late can increase the risk.
1 What is an exit?
An exit is the sale or transfer of a company or company shares. Typical forms:
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- Acquisition exit: Sale to another company
- Management buyout (MBO): Takeover by the company's own management
- Initial public offering (IPO): Shares become publicly tradable
- Private Sale: Sale to private investors or venture capital
2. signals that an exit could make sense
a) The company has exhausted its growth potential
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- Stagnating sales and market share
- New investments only offer limited opportunities
b) Strategic offers from third parties
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- Competitors or investors show interest
- There is one financially attractive deal that is hard to refuse
c) Personal goals and resources
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- Founders want to dedicate themselves to new projects
- Burnout or scarcity of resources in the team
d) Financial reasons
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- High debt or financing requirements that can be covered more easily by external partners
- Desire for liquidity for personal or business purposes
3. factors for the right exit time
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- Market conditions: Stock market, sector development, competition
- Company valuation: The company should be strong enough to realise a good price
- Team and structures: It is easier to sell a company if it is managed professionally and processes are established
- Customer and sales basis: A stable customer base and recurring sales increase the value
4. preparation for the exit
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- Clean preparation of finances: Properly document balance sheets, contracts and tax documents
- Check the legal basis: Clearly regulate partnership agreements, property rights, patents and licences
- Professional advice: Involve lawyers, tax consultants and M&A experts
- Communication: Inform stakeholders at an early stage - team, investors, customers
Conclusion
An exit makes sense if financial, strategic or personal reasons come together, and the company is strong enough to realise maximum value. A well-prepared sale creates opportunities for new projects and financial security for founders, team and investors.
Tip: Consider early on which Strategies for your start-up, even if a sale is not currently planned. A clear company sales strategy can facilitate growth decisions and increase the value of your company.