Is it a fit
What we look for in an agency
We look for UK software and digital agencies with roughly 5 to 99 staff. This page sets out what we look for, so you can judge for yourself before you talk to us. If you're unsure, ask. We'll give you a straight answer.
The kinds of agency
- Software development agencies
- Web and app agencies
- IT consultancies
- Digital agencies that build as well as design
Design and advertising agencies can also fit, usually where their work sits alongside software.
What we need to see
These are firm. An agency that misses one of them is unlikely to get an offer from us.
- A profit in each of the last three years of filed accounts
- No single client above 40% of revenue
- Someone other than the owner who can run delivery
- More than half of revenue from work that recurs or repeats
- Accounts filed on time, and no unresolved disputes or legal claims
- Staff on standard contracts, with the rights to their work belonging to the agency
What helps
- An owner who is willing to stay on for a handover, so clients can meet us through you
- A focus on a particular sector, such as health, housing or retail
- A team that uses modern tools and wants to use better ones
- Fee income per head at or above the average for agencies of your size
Probably not a fit
- Fewer than five people. At that size the business is usually the owner, and there is little left to buy once they step away.
- More than 99 people. That is a different kind of sale, and other buyers are better placed.
- An agency that has been losing money, or depends on one client for most of its income.
If most of this sounds like your agency, a first conversation costs you nothing. Start a private conversation