Seasonal M&A Review / Winter 2025

Seasonal M&A Review / Winter 2025

Welcome to Alinea's latest quarterly M&A update / Q4 2024

In the dynamic world of M&A, staying ahead creates opportunities. This quarterly review, developed with data from our partner MarktoMarket, transforms data into actionable insights that map today's deal landscape. Q4 2024's analysis reveals evolving market dynamics. Whether you're selling, buying, or growing, our analysis provides the intelligence to match your ambitions.

Volumes & Trends:

● Deal activity for the quarter strengthens to 1,454 transactions, marking a 24.7% quarter-on-quarter increase (thanks no doubt to the Autumn Budget)

● Smaller and mid-market deals demonstrate particular resilience, with sustained valuations across sectors

● EBITDA multiples show sector-specific strength, particularly in TMT (10.1x) and Property (8.7x)

Key Market Features:

● Trade buyers lead with 69.6% of transactions, showcasing sustained strategic appetite

● UK dominates with 80% of activity, complemented by EU (9%) and US (7%) buyer interest

● Industrials sector maintains prominence with 30% of Q4 deal flow

Notable Transactions:

● MPAC's £46.6m acquisition of CSi Palletising at 7.67x EBITDA demonstrates industrial sector momentum

● Brooks Macdonald's £45m purchase of LIFT-Financial at 18x EBITDA shows financial services strength

● Cross-border interest evidenced by Ball Corp's £68.2m acquisition of Alucan Entec at 7.4x EBITDA

Whether you're considering selling, buying, or growing, this quarter's data reveals clear opportunities across sectors and deal sizes. Our analysis provides the insights needed to navigate your next strategic move with confidence.