At Accelerated Manufacturing Brokers, one thing we know for sure is that our single biggest category of buyer is young, successful corporate executives who want to be their own boss and invest in something with a higher ROI than most other options.
We also know that many sellers look at these next-gen manufacturing entrepreneurs and wonder, “How the heck is this guy going to run, let alone grow, my business?” While their hands may not be roughed up (yet) and they are accustomed to coming to work in a sports coat and button-down, here’s a shortlist of what they’ll be bringing to the table.
Relationships
These next-gen manufacturing entrepreneurs haven’t gotten to where they are by simply sitting behind a desk. They have years of experience in developing and maintaining relationships – with clients, colleagues, suppliers, and distributors throughout their careers. And, they are seasoned managers and understand the value of taking care of the people who do the work and make owning a business possible.
Strategic Thinking
You’ve worked for years building a business you are proud of and now you’re ready to pass the baton. These next-gen manufacturing entrepreneurs are HUNGRY to grow your business and make a serious buck. They are going to seek out new alliances, distribution channels, and new industries that you may not have considered or no longer have the energy to chase.
Technology
The corporate execs we work with grew up with technology. Their grasp of it enabled them to do things better, faster and more efficiently than their peers. They understand that technology can catapult a business forward without sacrificing jobs and eventually may even create jobs.
Business Development and Sales
The “typical” corporate exec (a.k.a. buyer) is anything but typical. Their backgrounds vary from the financial/hedge fund world to global sales and marketing to software engineering. They understand how to navigate the Internet, social media, LinkedIn. They understand the value of developing marketing content, both electronic and in print to drive SEO (Search Engine Optimization) to grow a business. And, they may even add an “old fashioned” sales team to bring it all home.
They’re smart, motivated and have a fire in their belly. They’ve spent their career growing a department, a division or an organization and they have what it takes to do the same with your business. So before you turn your nose up, understand that these next-gen manufacturing entrepreneurs have the money and business acumen to continue the legacy you’ve worked your life to build.