Founders of marketplace businesses dedicate innumerable hours to constructing a company, adapting to market fluctuations, and expanding their user base. However, there may come a time when they wish to pursue new ventures, retire, or simply reap the rewards of their hard work.
In such cases, considering the different exit strategies available is a crucial for maximising returns on investment and ensuring the ongoing success of the online marketplace.
What are the different exit strategies?
Various exit strategies are available for marketplace businesses, each presenting its own set of pros and cons. In this article, we will discuss three prevalent exit approaches, encompassing mergers and acquisitions, as well as initial public offerings (IPOs).
Mergers
A merger materialises when two businesses amalgamate their operations, forming a single, more extensive entity. This can be an appealing option for marketplace founders desiring to maintain some control over their business while still capitalising on their efforts. In a merger, founders of both companies typically become shareholders in the new entity and may also hold board of directors positions.
Mergers can allow you to keep some ownership and control over your business. Moreover, you gain the opportunity to collaborate with a new executive team and access additional resources and expertise. However, mergers can be intricate and lengthy, with the new entity’s success hinging on the ability of both companies to cooperate effectively.
Acquisitions
An acquisition transpires when one business purchases another company’s assets or shares. This exit strategy is favoured by some marketplace founders, as it offers a clean departure from the business while still producing a considerable return on investment. Selling your marketplace company through an acquisition generally results in a one-time payment or a combination of cash and shares in the acquiring company.
Marketplace acquisitions have the benefit of being relatively simple. After the agreement is finalised, you can pursue other opportunities, utilising the substantial payout to invest in additional ventures. On the other hand, an acquisition means you will have limited or no influence over the future trajectory of your marketplace company, leaving you reliant on the acquiring company’s management.
IPOs
An initial public offering (IPO) occurs when a private company becomes public by selling stock shares on a stock exchange. Conducting an IPO allows you to retain a significant portion of shares, which can be sold on the market over time.
A marketplace IPO has the advantage of enabling cashing out while maintaining a certain level of control over the marketplace. An IPO can also generate substantial excitement and interest in your marketplace, leading to increased brand recognition and a higher valuation. Conversely, an IPO can be complicated and costly, subjecting you to public investors’ and regulators’ scrutiny.
Selecting the appropriate marketplace exit strategy
Selecting the optimal exit strategy for a marketplace company necessitates the evaluation of various factors, such as the company’s growth stage, competitive position, financial standing, and strategic objectives.
For instance, a young startup still refining its offerings may not be prepared for a mergers and acquisitions exit but could benefit from an IPO to raise capital and gain market visibility. On the other hand, a mature marketplace company with significant market share and profitability may be an appealing acquisition target for a larger business.
Conclusion
Before making any decisions, it is crucial to meticulously assess your marketplace and establish its true market value. This involves examining financial statements, growth potential, and industry trends to determine a realistic valuation. You might also consider enlisting the help of a professional business appraiser or investment banker to accurately gauge your business’s worth and negotiate a fair agreement.
During negotiations with potential buyers or partners, keep your objectives in mind. Are you mainly focused on maximising your payout or ensuring your marketplace’s continued success after your exit? Your objectives will guide you in making the right choices and negotiating a deal that suits your needs.
Lastly, remember that exiting your marketplace company is not the end of the journey. Your experience and expertise can prove to be valuable assets in the future. Consider remaining involved in the industry as a consultant or advisor, or even embarking on a new venture in a related field.
Exiting a marketplace is a significant decision that demands careful deliberation and planning. Whether you opt for a merger, acquisition, or IPO, it is vital to collaborate with a team of experienced advisors and weigh all your options before making a decision. By adopting a strategic approach and keeping your objectives in mind, you can confidently exit your marketplace and position your business for sustained success in the years ahead.