Operational due diligence for the acquisition of a 25-store chain.
The challenge
A Family Office was evaluating the acquisition of a retail chain valued at €12M. They needed an independent, expert view of the business beyond accounting numbers to identify hidden risks and operational improvement opportunities.
The strategy
- 1
Deep analysis of unit economics per store: sales/m², staff cost vs. revenue, and actual productivity.
- 2
Audit of lease contracts, strategic suppliers, and future purchase commitments.
- 3
Evaluation of the management team and operational culture through interviews and on-site observation.
- 4
Preparation of a 'hidden value' report with quick wins implementable in the first 90 days post-acquisition.
The results
Acquisition price renegotiated down 18% thanks to report findings.
€3.2M in hidden value identified (lease renegotiation, staff optimization, product mix improvement).
90-day post-close plan that generated a 9% increase in gross margin.
Report delivered in 45 days, within the deal's exclusivity period.