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"Every business needs adequate financing at some point.
At every stage of their existence, companies face issues related to financing and growth. Frank Hermans, Associate Partner at acquisition and merger advisor JBR Belgium, explains how his organization supports SMEs in their search for the right financing structure and growth strategies.
Every business, regardless of its size or stage, has certain needs in terms of financing.
"The goal of a business is to grow," Hermans explains. "That can be done in different ways, through organic growth from your own operations, or through acquisitions where you can tap into specific expertise or a new market faster."
The choice to build or buy yourself, as Hermans describes it, depends on your company's strategy. "We assist SMEs with the strategic thinking. We act as your sounding board, think about your strategy and then help you translate it into daily practice."
"A valuation exercise is always useful. It gives you a good idea of your position and helps in making strategic decisions."
Custom advice
An important part of Hermans' work is assisting companies with corporate finance issues by providing support in raising venture and debt capital, valuing companies and assisting with the purchase and sale of companies. When resolving a financing issue, it can range from credit to raising outside capital. "Every company needs adequate financing at some point, for example to make acquisitions or realize specific projects. We guide you through this process," Hermans said. JBR not only helps find the right targets for acquisitions, but also guides companies that want to be sold themselves. "Sometimes it is strategically interesting for an SME to be (partially) taken over and connect with a larger player. We then stand on the sales side and help you find the right parties and realize a good deal."
The added value of a valuation
According to Hermans, it is important to know at any time what a company is worth. "A valuation exercise is always useful, not only in an acquisition or the sale of shares, but also when you want to raise credit. It gives you a good idea of your position and helps you make strategic decisions."
"Sometimes it is strategically interesting for an SME to be (partially) acquired and connect with a larger player."
Specialization in six sectors
At JBR, the focus is on six sectors: Food & Agri, Energy & Materials Transition, Healtcare, Digital & Technology, Industrial Markets and Maritime & Offshore. "We believe that you cannot be an expert in every discipline. That is why we have chosen to specialize in a limited number of sectors in which we have built in-depth knowledge and a broad network," says Hermans. "This specialization allows us to optimally assist clients in both the Belgian and international markets."
With its global network, JBR can also support foreign transactions. "We are part of REACH, an international M&A network. That enables us to guide Belgian companies in international acquisitions or collaborations."
"We not only offer financial solutions, but also think about the strategy and growth opportunities of your business."
A strategic partner for SMEs
Finally, Hermans emphasizes JBR's strategic value to SMEs. "Every SME has to deal with growing pains, and at those times good guidance can make all the difference. We not only offer financial solutions, but also think along with you about your company's strategy and growth opportunities. Whether it's organic growth, acquisitions or a strategic takeover, JBR, with its forty years of experience, is ready to guide companies through every step of their growth journey."
Source: Planet Business Belgium
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Frank Hermans
Associate