Is B2B media M&A ready to return to growth?

Collingwood’s latest work media access report M&A deals in the B2B information, media and events space increased by 17% in the first half of 2024, indicating growing deal optimism as economic conditions stabilize.

As inflation and interest rates decline, buyers and investors are returning to M&A. Private equity-related deals saw a resurgence in 2024, with companies needing to sell and redeploy after holding record amounts of uninvested capital and reaching record average holding periods.

However, against a backdrop of political uncertainty, rising taxes and some recession risks, the growth we are seeing remains transitory, with deal numbers remaining well below historical highs.

Activity has gradually increased and valuations in the B2B information, media and events space have remained broadly consistent with last year. Elsewhere, the time it takes for deals to close is lengthening as buyers intensify scrutiny of financial results and related key performance indicators. This approach has had a knock-on effect on how these buyers evaluate opportunities, the deal structures they propose, and their overall approach to due diligence and materiality.

“It has been a tumultuous year so far for businesses in the B2B information, media and events space. We are seeing activity and sentiment remain subdued despite a pullback in inflation and interest rates and the return of buyers. Buyers are cautiously optimistic attitudes but want more due diligence, which has had a knock-on effect on their targets. This has resulted in huge differences in valuations and preferences between business models and strong performers. Our report delves into these differences, highlighting them. meeting buyer demand,” said Adam Shaw, global managing director of corporate finance.

this media access report Explore transaction volumes and trends by business model (information, media and events) and region. In addition to these insights, the report outlines:

• Latest valuation range
• Market conditions and their impact on M&A strategies
• trading trends
• Value Drivers and Deal Killers
• The impact of artificial intelligence.

For buyers, the report provides a baseline for their own strategies and helps them gain a competitive advantage.

For sellers, it provides guidance on how to prepare for a successful sale. In addition to this, the report is a tool for any seller to maximize the value of their business by showcasing the characteristics of an attractive business in this industry.