News & Resources

We are excited to present the latest edition of our Northwest Market Update. The second quarter of 2022 saw strong deal volume in the Northwest region, similar to the quarters immediately preceding on the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This quarterly report features data and insights on transaction counts and trends in the NW region, insightful M&A advisory pieces from our Managing Directors Scott Hardman & Tony Richardson, and one of our latest transaction spotlights.

Market Overview

The second quarter of 2022 saw a consistent level of NW middle market M&A activity as was seen in Q1, with only a slight contraction. Compared to the period immediately preceding the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, deal volume has returned to very similar levels; In Q1 2020, 205 middle market deals took place in the NW, compared to 201 in the most recent quarter. This suggests a leveling out of the market after the valleys and peaks of the past two years.

Fears of rising inflation and impending recession has slowed some deal activity, specifically from strategic buyers. We have heard rumors of some large corporations putting a temporary hold on their acquisition activity given the current macroeconomic climate. However, financial acquirers remain consistently active.

In our current active deals, we have seen strong interest from prospective buyers (strategic & financial), and multiples remain high for companies in desirable industries.

In our 37 years and 221 transactions, we have facilitated approximately half of our client transactions with Strategic (industry) and half with Financial (Private Equity/Family Office) acquirers/investors. Based on this experience, we are exceptionally well positioned to help clients understand the differences in these transactions.

We hope you find this quarterly report useful. Please be in touch with any questions or if we can otherwise be of service. We look forward to hearing from you!