M&A in portuguese PME: how to identify the ideal moment to sell or acquire a company

In a constantly evolving business market, the decision to sell or acquire a company must be supported by a rigorous strategic analysis. In the context of Portuguese SMEs, M&A (Mergers and Acquisitions) processes are increasingly relevant as an instrument for growth, diversification, or restructuring. But how do you know the right moment to move forward?

What can motivate an M&A process?

Before identifying the ideal moment, it is important to understand the main reasons that lead an SME to consider a transaction:

• Accelerated growth: entry into new markets or acquisition of new operational capabilities.
• Business succession: lack of family continuity or need for the founder(s) to exit.
• Reinforcement of competitiveness: access to technologies, teams, or synergies that optimise operations.
• Financial problems: need for liquidity or recovery of profitability.

Signs indicating the ideal time to sell

• Maximum business valuation: the company is at a peak of performance, with good profitability and growth prospects.
• Favourable buyer market: there is active demand for companies in the sector or an economic moment conducive to asset appreciation.
• Ability to attract strategic investors: companies or funds with complementary or expansion interests.
• Lack of motivation or internal succession: current managers or partners do not intend to continue the business.

Signs indicating the ideal time to buy

• Undervalued acquisition opportunity: companies with potential but poorly managed or in financial difficulties, which can be restructured.
• Clear strategic objectives: the purchase fits into a growth plan or vertical/horizontal integration.
• Solid financial capacity: the purchasing company has a robust financial structure and access to financing.

Checklist to evaluate the right moment

• Is the sector growing or consolidating?
• Is the company financially healthy?
• Are there clear synergies with the current business?
• Is there solid data to support the valuation or investment?
• Is a specialised team available to support the process?

Why specialised advice makes the difference

M&A operations involve complex negotiations, rigorous financial analyses, and a strong emotional component. Having a team by your side with experience in structuring operations, business valuation, due diligence, and negotiation ensures:

• Rigour in asset valuation;
• Identification of risks and opportunities;
• More balanced and strategic negotiation;
• Maximisation of return for both parties.

At Yunit Consulting, we have supported dozens of Portuguese SMEs in M&A processes, ensuring that every decision is made based on data, strategy, and long-term vision.

Do you want to know if you are at the right moment to sell or acquire a company?

Talk to us. We help take decisions with strategic impact.