M&A deal volumes decreased by 4% in H1 2022, with 74 deals completed involving UK target companies compared to 77 in H2 2022.
M&A deal volumes were in line with the first half of 2021, with 46 deals completed involving UK target companies compared to 45 in H1 2021.
M&A deal volumes decreased in YTD H2 2021, with 48 deals completed involving UK target companies compared to 73 in H1 2021. This decrease follows a busy H1 period with some business owners accelerating their exit plans amidst fears of capital gains tax rises in the March 21 budget.
Building products and builders merchants deal volumes in the UK increased by approximately 11% in H1 2021 compared to H2 2020, representing the highest six months of deal activity since H1 2018, when there were also 45 transactions.
It has been a turbulent year for the apparel, accessories and luxury goods sectors. Covid-19 has accelerated growth in ecommerce, whilst brands with an emphasis on retail stores as their main route to market have faced significant disruption.
Building products and merchants deal volumes in the UK decreased by approximately 8% in 2020 compared to 2019. The optimism created by the election of a majority government in December 2019 rapidly deteriorated as the global pandemic took grip towards the end of the first quarter.
The ICT Services market has demonstrated strong resilience throughout the Covid-19 period. Looking forward, it is set for strong growth as we progress through 2021 driven by increased Internet of Things development and further adoption of AI assisted services.
M&A activity in the food and beverage sector has increased in comparison to H1 2020, with 72 deals completed involving UK target companies. Total disclosed transaction values fell to c. £1bn although this does not include the reported £6.8bn acquisition of the UK’s 3rd largest retailer Asda by TDR Capital.
