Business succession

What’s your next move? With succession planning, it’s important to think a few steps ahead.​

Planning your business succession is a formidable challenge that shouldn’t be underestimated. It takes time and thought. The succession path you choose will not only impact you and your family but also anyone else connected to the business. Getting it right from the beginning will help you avoid unnecessary stress and place you in an advantageous position.

Why succession planning is important

We advise – you benefit

It’s never too early to start strategizing. With our deep knowledge across sectors, we can support you with your various business succession needs. An important aspect of a strong succession plan is understanding the value of your company. We can support you with your company valuation and help identify areas of dependence and opportunities so that you can confidently make the right decisions.​

Comprehensive advice

We can advise along every stage, from initial discussions and execution to company handover.

Proven experience across sectors

We support 200+ succession processes per year throughout Switzerland, with transaction sizes ranging from CHF 1 million to CHF 200 million.

Access to wide network of specialists

We connect you to our 70 experts with over 800 years of combined experience in areas such as taxation, financial planning and real estate.

Fill out the contact form to set up an initial no-obligation meeting and learn more.​

Guidance and supporting material

Are you well prepared for a handover?

Passing a company on to somebody new is no easy matter. Your company is ultimately far more than just the sum of your annual results. Take a few minutes to find out where you currently stand with regard to succession planning and what actions you need to take.

 

What are your handover options?

Succession within the family

A family buyout is influenced not just by business but also family dynamics. If, for example, several family members work in a company, you need to think about how everything will be divided and also consider family members who aren’t involved in the company. 

In addition, you’ll want to set a deadline for when responsibilities, management and ownership should be transferred by, while at the same time ensuring that your own future is secured.

Succession within the company

When management employees become partners in the business (management buyout), communication with employees, clients and suppliers is key. During the transition phase, it’s also important that the future working relationship between the existing and new owners is clearly defined.

External company sale

You want to ensure the long-term success of your business if you sell your company externally. To do this, you should carefully consider a potential buyer’s personality, their level of trustworthiness as well as their technical and management expertise. Clarify the financial aspects at an early stage and whether succession planning should take place gradually or in one go.

 

What else do you need to consider?

12 common stumbling blocks

There’s no avoiding it: every succession planning process will face at least a few challenges along the way. Our clients always come with their unique set of circumstances, and as a result we’ve become experts in helping them achieve smooth transitions and peace of mind. Take a look at the PDF we’ve put together on 12 common stumbling blocks for you to be especially prepared for.

Past transactions and company valuation

Crafting a succession plan can be one of your best investments. We help you navigate the succession planning terrain and consider which path best suits your business, family and goals. Take a look at how we’ve guided other companies with their business succession transactions and find out how we can support you with a company valuation  ̶  whether buying, selling or handing over.

More business guidance

Benefit from our free guides, publications and newsletters that include useful information and countless tips on corporate finance. They offer a range of essential information, practical examples and up-to-date news.