It will come as no surprise that merger and acquisition activity in the construction industry has decreased in the past 18 months. The same is true across all sectors of the economy. Acquisitions that were completed were strategically focused. However, for those companies with the financial resources, the past 18 months have presented opportunities for growth and expansion at a reasonable price.
Strategic vs. Financial The current trend in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is toward strategic rather than purely financial deals. Buyers and sellers often are looking for a strategic match that complements their business, expands their geographic presence or eliminates a competitor. Struggling companies, including those emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, are vulnerable to take-over. Additionally, the ready financing of two or three years ago seemingly has dried up, so that even though there are opportunities to pick up great companies at bargain prices, cash has not been readily available to finance the deals. Therefore, when a financially stable suitor appears and promises to save the day for pennies on the dollar, too often it’s an offer that many are finding hard to refuse.