Services

The services sector shows a pronounced valuation spread. Companies with standardised processes, recurring revenues and low owner-dependency achieve EBITDA multiples of 5x to 7x. Classic project service providers without clear differentiation sit at 3x to 4x — often regardless of revenue level. Buyers draw sharp distinctions: strategic buyers seek companies that complement their existing portfolio with a new competency or customer group; private equity investors with buy-and-build mandates seek scalable platforms that can grow through add-ons — preferring companies where no single customer accounts for more than 20% of revenue. The critical lever before a sale is often not revenue but documentation: demonstrable customer loyalty, clear process standards and management that functions independently of the owner can significantly influence the sale price. What this means specifically for your business — we are happy to discuss this in a first conversation.

The market for service companies shows a pronounced split: businesses with recurring revenues, clear processes and low owner-dependency achieve above-average multiples — while highly person-dependent structures significantly reduce value. Strategic buyers and private equity investors are looking for scalable service models that can be integrated into existing platforms. The market remains active, but requirements around documentation and pre-sale structuring are rising. How your business is currently positioned and which levers create the most value before a sale — we are happy to discuss this in a first conversation.