Introduction

Selling your company is not just about price, it is about process. A well-prepared exit maximises value, minimises risk, and accelerates closing. Poor preparation costs time, credibility, and often millions. At dups, we turn preparation into your strongest negotiation weapon.

Why process matters

Buyers look for clarity and confidence. If your documentation is incomplete or your strategy unclear, you lose leverage. In Belgium, where investor caution and legal complexity are the norm, preparation is not paperwork, it is power.

Belgian Market Context

Selling a company in Belgium comes with unique dynamics. Investor caution, strict regulatory frameworks, and cultural nuances mean buyers expect transparency and precision. Unlike some markets where speed trumps detail, Belgian and European buyers value structured processes and risk mitigation. This is why preparation is not optional, it is your strongest negotiation lever. At dups, we understand these local realities and combine them with international best practices to attract both Belgian investors and global funds.

The role of competitive tension

One of the most overlooked aspects of selling is creating competitive tension. A single buyer sets the price, multiple buyers set the market. We design processes that attract several qualified bidders, increasing your leverage and accelerating timelines. This is especially critical in Belgium, where mid-market deals often involve both local investors and international funds. Our network spans Belgian entrepreneurs, private equity, and European growth investors, giving you access to the right audience.

What we do for sellers at dups

Selling a business is a once-in-a-lifetime event for most entrepreneurs. It demands precision, speed, and a clear narrative. At dups, we combine financial and legal expertise under one roof, so you do not juggle multiple advisors or lose momentum. Here is how we help you prepare and execute a successful exit:

1. Strategic Readiness

We start by aligning all stakeholders and defining:

- Deal rationale: Why sell now and what success looks like.

- Valuation benchmarks: Based on market multiples and financial modelling.

- Shareholder alignment: Avoiding internal friction before going to market.

2. Process Control

We design a process that keeps you in control:

- Process letter: Setting expectations for buyers.

- Transaction timeline: From teaser to closing.

- Momentum management: Avoiding stalls that erode value.

3. Preparation of Key Materials

First impressions matter. We prepare:

- Teaser: A concise, anonymous snapshot to spark interest.

- Information Memorandum (IM): A detailed document that tells your story and highlights strengths.

- Business plan and forecasts: To support valuation and buyer confidence.

4. Driving Discussions

We manage:

- Initial outreach: Confidential and professional.

- Qualification of intent: Filtering serious buyers from time-wasters.

- Negotiation tone: Keeping talks constructive and competitive.

5. Negotiating Terms

Every clause matters. We handle:

- LOIs: Setting price and key conditions.

- Price structure: Fixed, earn-outs, or hybrid models.

- Warranties and indemnities: Protecting you post-closing.

6. Due Diligence Orchestration

Due diligence can be overwhelming. We organise:

- Data room: Complete, structured, and ready before buyers ask.

- Anticipating questions: Reducing surprises and delays.

- Issue resolution: Keeping the deal on track.

7. Closing Support

The final stretch is critical. We manage:

- Final contracts: Share Purchase Agreement and ancillary documents.

- Conditions precedent: Ensuring all requirements are met.

- Transfer execution: From signing to funds flow.

The dups Advantage

We integrate financial and legal expertise under one roof, giving entrepreneurs a single point of accountability. This synergy accelerates execution, improves deal quality, and reduces costs. We do not just advise, we execute.

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