Advisory

Since 2000, Blackthorn Capital has been providing Corporate Finance services to the SME sector in Ireland.  Having advised on a wide range of transactions our expertise is second to none. We have a hands on approach with our clients on these transactions, with an understanding of both the business and personal aspects involved.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions are on the increase for a number of reasons. In some sectors growth can only be achieved through acquisition. There are also more funding options, whether through existing resources or from external investors. The acquisition process requires an expertise to identify the target business and assess its valuation and fit, dependent on the buyers objectives. An acquisition can be by a third party or the in situ management team through a Management Buyout. Blackthorn Capital has advised on a large number of acquisitions.

Business Sales and Exits

Planning your exit is essential, whether this is a third party sale or a succession plan. There are key tax planning oppurtunities that should be assessed in this process. Business sales can be unnecessarily complicated due to lack of planning. We assist our clients in the planning and execution process on a business sale or exit. We have vast experience in this niche area, where a commercial, tax and legal issues are intertwined.

Reorganisation & Restructuring

Business reorganisations and restructures are required for a number of reasons whether it be to prepare for the sale of a business or to separate classes of assets in order to facilitate an exit or succession plan. There are a number of tax reliefs available with specific legal and tax conditions. At Blackthorn Capital we can assist you in planning and executing these transactions.

Due Diligence

Due diligence is required on the acquisition and disposal of a business. A buyer will carry out due diligence to assess the financial, tax and legal standing of the target business to ensure the valuation of the business is accurate and if there are any additional issues to be considered. A vendor has to provide all of the relevant responses in a due diligence process. These responses underpin the legal agreements, warranties and disclosures on completion of a transaction. This is a key process in these types of transactions and expert advice is needed to guide you through. Blackthorn Capital has this expertise.

Ciarán Marron

CEO Activ8 solar energies

Blackthorn are our Corporate Finance advisors and advised us on SSE Airtricity’s acquisition of a 40% stake in our company. They ensured that we were well structured from the outset and managed the acquisition process from start to finish. They were on hand at all times throughout the period and their expertise and understanding of the process was invaluable. We continue to work with them and would highly recommend them if you are thinking of selling your business.