Shaping the Future of M&A Deals in A/NZ: Trends and Strategic Moves for 2025

When considering buying or selling a business, it is essential to understand the current market trends and demands. Despite a general sense of caution in the merger and acquisition (M&A) market, businesses that offer the right services, have a suitable scale, and boast a strong customer base are still in high demand. According to Mark Nesbitt, the principal of Latimer Partners, businesses catering to the federal government with a significant presence in Canberra are particularly sought after.

The global landscape has undoubtedly influenced M&A activity, leading to a more risk-averse market. However, Nesbitt notes that there is still a distinct interest in businesses that offer high-quality services and have established customer relationships. While companies are not as liberal with their spending compared to a few years ago, certain types of businesses continue to attract solid interest.

In addition to strategic buyers, private equity (PE) firms such as Riverside and Evergreen are actively seeking opportunities in the sector. Firms like these are particularly interested in pure-play providers specializing in platforms like SAP or ServiceNow. Nesbitt predicts a similar trend emerging in the AI space in the coming years, with a focus on transformation, AI consulting, and integration services that will be highly valuable in the market.

Nesbitt, along with Hugh Richards, will be presenting these valuable insights on M&A trends at EDGE 2025 later in July. The conference will also feature M&A consultant Ryan Spillane, who will lead a panel discussion on identifying lucrative deals and navigating the challenges that often arise during the integration process.

In conclusion, the M&A landscape is evolving, with businesses that offer innovative services, have a significant scale, and serve valuable customers continuing to attract strong interest. Although the market remains cautious, there are still opportunities for strategic acquisitions and investments, particularly in sectors like technology and AI. Attendees at EDGE 2025 can expect to gain valuable insights into the future of M&A deals and the strategic moves necessary to succeed in the evolving business landscape.