years in advance, for the sale of a business. It’s important to get all aspects in order, from the lease terms on buildings to the future of the employees (including use of employee share schemes) and organisational structure. Proper planning will make the business a much more attractive proposition to prospective buyers. - Exit strategies and disposal – there are myriad options, including third party disposals, management buy outs, private equity sales and Employee Ownership Trusts. Expert advice on the advantages and disadvantages of each is vital. What is also critical is that the departing owner remains focused on the success of the business while the disposal process is ongoing – the business needs to remain strong throughout.


Guy Pain said: “T e corporate fi nance team are


the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS). Given their entrepreneurial nature, small businesses inevitably cover a wide range of products, services and disciplines – some keen to build on what they do best, with others determined to continually diversify and develop new ideas. T e success of either approach is dependent on a capable and


motivated workforce. Cottons Corporate Finance is also able to advise owners on implementing highly tax-effi cient employee share schemes, proven to be an excellent way of rewarding and retaining key individuals. Paula Carter said: “Starting or growing your business, while exciting,


can also be daunting. Entrepreneurs frequently find themselves stepping into the unknown so expert friendly fi nancial advice is often key to success. It is not uncommon for small businesses to feel they aren’t ready to approach what they see as a large accountancy practice, believing they won’t be able to aff ord their guidance, or that the practice won’t be interested in their business because it’s too small. “For our team, that’s not the case at all and we


are keen to develop those long-term partnerships that see our services come in as and when the client needs them to achieve their ultimate ambitions.”


Services - Corporate strategy – from formulating business plans and fi nancial forecasts to looking at the ways of raising fi nance, and schemes like EIS and SEIS to fund start-up or growth. Advice is also provided on strategic development to ensure effi cient business management, the minimisation of costs and the development of new opportunities. - Accountancy practice – colleagues at sister organisation Cottons Accountants are on hand to advise and act with regard to the traditional accountancy and taxation services a business would expect from an accountant. - Valuations – with regard to acquisitions, disposals, matrimonial and probate issues. - Business acquisitions – advice on valuation and due diligence issues. - Pre-disposal – helping plan ahead, up to three


ALL THINGS BUSINESS 13


focused on smaller owner-managed businesses and we understand the needs and challenges they face and aim to help them gain a competitive and strategic advantage. I’ve been in corporate fi nance for over 40 years and during that time I have built up an enormous number of contacts in all kinds of areas to whom we can turn for help and advice. “Whether we are engaged for a single transaction or on a longer-term basis to provide support as and when it is needed, we aim to understand clients’ objectives and work with them to identify and implement a strategy that meets their wishes - a friendly and expert hand whenever we are needed.”


Find out more about Cottons Corporate Finance on 01788 579033, visit www.cottonscf.co.uk, email Guy Pain at GPain@cottonsaccountants.co.uk or Paula Carter at PCarter@cottonsaccountants.co.uk


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