I read an excellent article from McKinseys recently about the importance of organic business growth, as a critical adjunct to M&A activity. The article can be found here:
https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/five-fifty-the-organic-path-to-growth?cid=other-eml-alt-mkq-mck-oth-1810&hlkid=ee475f0db91442b5b4e6a53356b2a6fa&hctky=9550662&hdpid=4ef535d0-28f5-4934-af7d-dbc8928d2b52
Working in the M&A space, we are principally dealing with owners and other business leaders who have their minds either on succession or acquisitive growth. McKinsey’s article clearly shows the importance of a multi pronged growth strategy, driving organic growth initiatives which should provide excellent value add to the organisation.
Particularly in the context of business exit, our advice to clients is always to focus on continuing to run & develop the business as if you will own it for the next 5 years +. That energy will translate into value in any deal you enter.