www.acquisition-international.com • January 2025 CallTower: Revolutionising Cloud-Based Communications Through Sustainable Innovation
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Contents 4 News 6 CallTower: Revolutionising Cloud-Based Communications Through Sustainable Innovation 8 Technology Holdings: Global Technology M&A Advisory Firm of the Year 2024 & Client Service Excellence Award 2024 10 Accelerating Digitalization and Solving SMEs Pain Points: Zapproach Ltd 11 DXCorr Design Inc.: Leading-Edge Physical IP Solutions 12 Sweeney McGann LLP Solicitors: Gearóid McGann: Ireland’s Definitive Commercial Lawyer 13 Chameleon Strategic Management Limited: The Art of Change with Chameleon Strategic Management 14 Advisory Group AG: Tailored, Results-Driven Business Transformation Solutions 15 Consulting Skill Ltd: Driving Business Transformations with Essential Consulting Skills 16 Climaconvenienza.it: Top-Quality Products and an Even Better Service 17 Topp Kids Out of School Clubs: Play, Grow, Laugh, and Learn with Topp Kids 18 London Academy of Trading: Transform Your Life with LAT’s Top-Tier Trading Talent 19 Alexandre Maciel: Independent Arbitration Ensuring Positive Outcomes 20 LegacyWise LLC: Best Estate Document Preparation Service 2025 – USA 21 Groove Science Studios: Pushing the Boundaries of the Musical Metaverse 22 Mari Vasan Consulting: Reboot, Upgrade, and Reignite with Mari Vasan Coaching 23 Grant Thornton Austria: An Acclaimed International Tax Lawyer Backed by the Best 18 12 22
NEWS “UK Economy on a Knife Edge: Can Growth Triumph Over Stagflation?” Rob Morgan, Chief Investment Analyst at Charles Stanley UK economy struggles into the year end The UK has been experiencing an unenviable mix of persistent inflation and economic stagnation – or ‘stagflation’. While this week’s inflation data shows a modest reprieve that helped calm nervous bond markets it was more of the same on the growth front. The UK economy expanded by 0.1% in November, effectively recouping October’s 0.1% decline. With the Christmas period still to feature in the numbers the final quarter of 2024 was probably just about positive, which is sorely needed following the zerogrowth recorded in the third quarter. It’s not a great picture overall, though, and we might expect further constraint to growth in the coming months as some businesses choose to retrench in response to the increases to National Insurance announced in the Budget. Can the UK avoid stagnation? Businesses are enduring a pincer movement of constrictive interest rates and higher costs. Meanwhile, consumers are also feeling the pinch as they continue to battle higher cost of living and borrowing costs compared to pre-Covid levels. It’s not all doom and gloom. A significant ray of hope for the UK economy comes from the Bank of England gradually reducing interest rates. Plus, many households are now feeling the glow of wage growth trending above price rises. Although pared back by tax rises, this is restoring some spending power lost in the post-Covid inflation surge. Yet there is a risk that inflation remains on the high side, limiting the scope for interest rate cuts that would help restore business confidence and stimulate economic activity. Major retailers have warned that food prices may resume an upward trajectory, and a recent increase in the previously subdued oil price could herald a further inflationary pulse on top of the expected inflationary impact of Donald Trump’s reprise as US President. Inflationary trends could stay the hand of the Bank of England in terms of cutting interest rates and keep the handbrake on economic activity. Combined with the additional costs employers are taking on following measures unveiled in the Budget, the coming months could be an uphill struggle. The UK economy is therefore on a knife edge. To aim for a better outcome the government needs to engender a more growth-led narrative and provide incentives for business expansion to ultimately increase the overall tax take without upping already-high tax rates.
NEWS British Business Investments to provide funding to SMEs that are critical to advancing UK-led innovation. The funding provided also enables us to work even closer with UK Research & Innovation through Innovate UK to provide additional capital to grant projects, accelerating UK-led innovation further.” Scott O’Brien, Chief Investment Officer, Innovate UK, said: “We recognise the liquidity challenges that can face cutting-edge businesses bringing new technologies to market. Together, the British Business Bank and Innovate UK support the end to end pathways through which innovative UK businesses start, scale and succeed. This new funding facility with Sprk supports those pathways, alongside our world-class portfolio of products and services designed to support businesses in bringing the best ideas to market and driving economic growth. The initial £20m has the potential to help fund hundreds of SMEs to achieve their goals of advancing technology and research in the UK into some of the most complex issues that are faced around net zero, AI and sustainability.” Chris Collings, Relationship Director at Triple Point, who helped to enable the new facility said: “We’re proud to have played a role in enabling this funding through the restructuring of existing facilities and supporting the commencement of the relationship with BBI. Our ongoing commitment to SPRK in this crucial lending market reflects our dedication to the innovation and growth driving SMEs across the UK. The new partnership with BBI creates further opportunity to expand on these activities, and we look forward to working alongside the team as this initiative develops.” British Business Investments announces a £20m funding facility with Sprk Capital to advance UK innovation British Business Investments today announces an initial £20m funding facility to Sprk Capital Limited (“Sprk”). The facility will provide capital to smaller businesses in the UK engaged in innovation. British Business Investments, a wholly owned commercial subsidiary of the British Business Bank, aims to improve access to alternative finance for smaller businesses across the whole of the UK, while supporting the UK’s transition to a net zero economy. Since it was established in 2014, British Business Investments has committed more than £3.8 billion to providers of finance to UK smaller businesses. Sprk is a leading specialty lender to companies engaged in the innovation sector. Through the provision of advanced funding of UK R&D and innovation grants, Sprk provides non-dilutive cashflow solutions to smaller businesses, enabling them to invest with confidence in their innovation projects. R&D advance funding, also known as an R&D tax credit loan, is a simple way for businesses to access their R&D tax credits at any point in the financial year. Grant advance funding, also known as innovation grant funding, is a simple way for businesses to finance their grant awards ahead of incurring expenditures. Currently, innovation incentives such as tax credits and grants account for £16bn of funding to smaller businesses in the UK[1]. Since it launched in 2021 Sprk has provided funding to innovation projects totalling over £150m. Although Sprk has a sector agnostic lending strategy, 80% of its loans to date broadly represent the UK innovation market, with lending focused on the manufacturing, IT & communication, and the professional scientific and technical sectors. Sprk is the first lender focused on the innovation lending sector to receive funding from British Business Investments. In 2024, the British Business Bank and Innovate UK signed a memorandum of understanding to help create new pathways for business investment and promote growth through innovation. The collaboration will see the two organisations working more closely together to co-create new opportunities to promote investment and to support UK businesses through better tailored offerings. Adam Kelly, Managing Director, British Business Investments said: “This £20m funding facility will enable Sprk to back UK smaller businesses in the innovation sector, providing them with cashflow solutions at critical points in their journey. We look forward to working with Sprk to help innovative smaller businesses across the UK to access the capital they need to scale up and become successful, high growth companies.” Dominick Peasley, Chief Executive Officer, Sprk Capital, said: “Today’s announcement demonstrates the commitment of
6 | Acquisition International, January 2025 Revolutionising Cloud-Based Communications Through Sustainable Innovation ince its inception in 2002, CallTower has been committed to growing into the premier cloud communication solutions provider for organisations seeking to expand on a global level. The company is on a mission to empower businesses with innovative, unified communications solutions that drive efficiency, connectivity, and growth, through the provision of an expansive portfolio of UCaaS and CCaaS solutions, such as Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, CT Cloud Solutions, and advanced contact centre platforms. Driven by the core principles of innovation, customer-centricity, and reliability, CallTower prioritises understanding the unique needs of its diverse client base. In doing so, the company ensures that its solutions are scalable and tailormade to enhance productivity whilst lowering operational costs, making CallTower a key player in the world of communications. “CallTower stands out as a leader in the UCaaS and CCaaS space because of our commitment to delivering tailored, cutting-edge communication solutions backed by unparalleled customer support,” says Tonya. “We pride ourselves on being a trusted partner for businesses worldwide, offering a seamless experience from implementation to ongoing support.” What truly sets CallTower apart in the competitive landscape, Tonya tells us, is the company’s expert ability to integrate best-in-class technologies with a single-pane-of-glass management experience through CallTower Connect. CallTower remains dedicated to ensuring that its clients stay ahead of the market, through prioritising their success and maintaining excellent agility in adapting to emerging trends and changes. Tonya cites one of the company’s standout offerings as CallTower Operator Connect for Microsoft Teams, a revolutionary solution that simplifies direct routing whilst ensuring enterprise-grade call quality and reliability. The service integrates with Microsoft Teams to provide Public Switched Telephone Network access, allowing Teams users to make and receive phone calls using traditional phone lines, directly within the Teams environment. CallTower Operator Connect allows clients to achieve seamless integration, robust security, and scalable collaboration capabilities directly within their Teams environment. Clients using the service have shared glowing feedback with CallTower, detailing the ease of setup, cost savings, and exceptional call quality. One client, for example, says, “The transition to CallTower Operator Connect was seamless, and the CallTower team provided exceptional support throughout the process, enabling us to achieve 100% uptime across our communication channels.” “CallTower helped us make the smooth transition from an inhouse, outdated, vendor-specific telephony to an advanced cloud-based platform, and are now our telephony provider,” writes another. “Everyone involved has been polite, professional, efficient, and accommodating to our needs.” Recently, the company hit an impressive milestone with the expansion of CallTower Operator Connect into the EMEA market, enabling it to serve a broader audience with local expertise and compliant. This successful development was driven by a rising demand for Microsoft Teams-oriented solutions across global markets and reflects CallTower’s commitment to monitoring and responding to the market’s evolving needs. At CallTower’s core lies a steadfast commitment to sustainability, a dedication that underpins all of the company’s operations. In alignment with this passion for, CallTower strives to promote environmentally conscious corporate communication practices by integrating ecofriendly methods into its business operations and collaborating with partners and stakeholders to drive growth and create new revenue streams through green solutions. The industry as a whole is shifting towards sustainable practices, driven by a rising global awareness of climate change and its impact on the environment, with sustainability now considered a core component of business communications. In response to the changing industries, including UCaaS and CCaaS, CallTower has developed and published an Environmental Sustainability eBook. CallTower is a leading provider of cloud-based unified communications, contact centre, and collaboration solutions, offering services such as Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS), Contact Centre as a Service (CCaaS), and a myriad of collaboration tools designed to improve the ways in which organisations collaborate and communicate. Boasting a robust network infrastructure, with data centres based all around the world, CallTower promises its clientele reliable connectivity and top quality services. As the company is recognised for its brilliance in the 2025 Global Excellence Awards, we speak with Tonya Wheatfall, Marketing Coordinator at CallTower. S “ The success of this project stemmed from our team’s deep industry expertise and commitment to excellence,” Tonya reflects. “Challenges, such as navigating regional telecom regulations, were mitigated through strategic partnerships and meticulous planning, ensuring a smooth rollout. ” Nov24269
Revolutionising Cloud-Based Communications Through Sustainable Innovation The Environmental Sustainability in UCaaS eBook highlights the importance of eco-friendly practices in business communications. The publication delves into the ways in which sustainability has evolved over time and emphasises the need for businesses to align their goals with eco-conscious consumers, investors, and stakeholders, acting as a comprehensive guide for businesses seeking to adopt sustainable practices and communicate their commitment to upholding their environmental responsibility. The communications industry is rapidly evolving, beyond the realm of environmental responsibility. Tonya tells us that CallTower has identified a surge in AI-driven enhancements, from advanced analytics to AIpowered virtual assistants. The company has embraced such emerging trends by integrating artificial intelligence into its contact centre solutions, simultaneously boosting agent performance and customer satisfaction. Whilst these advancements can present challenges regarding their implementation, they also provide businesses with an opportunity to deliver superior client outcomes. By investing into cutting-edge technologies and proactive client training, CallTower is successfully navigating the ever-changing landscape whilst aiding its clientele in tackling these challenges. As a result, CallTower has transformed the potential obstacles into a competitive advantage that places it far ahead of its competitors. “In the next five years, CallTower aims to lead the charge in integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning into communication platforms, offering predictive insights and automation that transform business operations,” says Tonya. “Our goals include expanding our global footprint, refining our product offerings, and maintaining a customer-first approach. Innovation will remain at the heart of our strategy, as we strive to anticipate industry needs and empower businesses with solutions that evolve alongside them.” As for the near-distant future, Tonya tells us that CallTower is excited to announce upcoming enhancements to CallTower Connect, its proprietary management platform. These changes will include advanced analytics dashboards and streamlined user experiences, with the aim that the updates will give clients greater control and visibility over their communications infrastructure, further driving their organisation’s productivity and operational efficiency. For more than two decades, CallTower has combined innovation with sustainability to deliver top-tier communications solutions to its clientele that are as impactful as they are environmentally friendly. The company has embraced industry advancements to ensure that it remains one step ahead of the competition, enabling and empowering its clients through specialised industry expertise and cutting-edge technologies. It is for this approach that CallTower has been recognised as the Most Innovative Cloud-Based Communication Solutions Provider 2025 – USA. Contact: Tonya Wheatfall Company: CallTower Web Address: https://www.calltower.com/
8 | Acquisition International, January 2025 or almost 25 years, the laser focus that Technology Holdings has had on its speciality areas has paved the way for the firm to expand from London to the likes of New York, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Today present in 14 cities, 13 countries, and five continents, the firm is immensely proud to have carried out transactions worldwide, underpinning its truly global nature. Despite the exponential growth it has experienced over the past two-and-a-half decades, the ethos behind Technology Holdings has remained the same since day one. Committed to always putting clients first and adding demonstrable value at every stage of the transaction process, Technology Holdings has amassed a track record of achieving premium valuations and desirable outcomes for clients. It is on the back of this distinction that the firm has received international acclaim and global recognition as the investment bank of choice in 12 key focus sectors – from digital transformation and cybersecurity to the likes of healthcare and life sciences, fintech, consultancies, AI, and engineering services. The unrivalled reputation that the firm today enjoys can be attributed to the international teams it has built over the years, which presently consist of more than 120 experienced and proven industry professionals. Overseen by CEO Vivek Subramanyam and COO Geeta Ramanathan, these teams operate atop a strategic, focused, and hands-on approach. Given that the firm is responsible for an accumulated value of more than a $100 billion, this ethos is vital in ensuring that clients continue to achieve the best returns on their investments. It is for this very reason that, once they are appointed, the team at Technology Holdings become integrated members of its clients’ teams, collaborating closely with their top staff across the lifecycles of transactions to ensure success. From carving out initial strategies to positioning, preparing materials, carrying out due diligence, and finally closing the transaction, the firm’s philosophy that client success is its success – which is also one of its six core values, results in the forging of long-standing, mutually-beneficial relationships. A multi-award-winning global investment banking firm founded in 2000, Technology Holdings delivers its quality M&A advisory, growth equity, private equity advisory, and growth consulting services to a range of leading companies in the technology, software, consulting, healthcare, and business process management sectors. Boasting a portfolio of businesses with total values ranging from $20 million all the way through to $250 million (USD), clients seek out this esteemed firm for the infallible combination of cross-cultural knowledge and a strong local presence, which it displays at every turn. F Global Technology M&A Advisory Firm of the Year 2024 & Client Service Excellence Award 2024 “ For over 24 years we have offered our clients comprehensive, highquality advisory services, including M&A sell-side, buy-side, private equity, and capital advisory services – closing over 100 transactions. ” Nov24288
As for the other five values which serve as cornerstones of the firm, these revolve around recognising that its global teams are its most valuable assets, dedicating itself to doing the right thing, pledging to continuously challenge itself, committing to always being passionate about what it does, and striving to consistently exceed client expectations. These values have led to a mission reflective of Technology Holdings’ desire to achieve outstanding outcomes through its encompassing and yet highly focused methodology. Because it plans to continue working exclusively with companies in the technology services, software, consulting, healthcare, and business process management landscapes, the firm’s clients not only gain access to talented advisors, they benefit immeasurably from the services of undisputed industry experts. This strong foundation sets the wheels in motion for great things to happen, as corroborated by the wealth of blue-chip companies and private equity funds that Technology Holdings has closed deals with over the years. There are more than 60 glowing client testimonials available, including a particularly striking one from Rajan Kumar, CEO of The Lumery, which was acquired by Accenture thanks to a partnership with the firm. Rajan states: Global Technology M&A Advisory Firm of the Year 2024 & Client Service Excellence Award 2024 first steps into 2025, the firm is striving to keep one eye on the future, reviewing its offerings and continuing to ask itself how it can go even further, continuously setting a new gold standard in the process. Thus, by never settling for anything less than the best for its clients, this is a firm delivering both an exceptional service and record valuations, making it a worthy winner of these two awards. Contact: Kate Geary Company: Technology Holdings Web Address: https://technologyholdings.com/ “ Ultimately, when it comes to providing independent M&A and capital raising across our 12 focus sectors, our depth of capabilities, domain expertise, and track record of success all remain unmatched. ” “The shareholders of The Lumery enlisted Technology Holdings as our advisor based on their reputation for understanding our unique space. From the outset, their digital transformation and digital marketing deal expertise, attention to detail, and access to the digital buyer landscape globally were critical. ” Moreover, be it Accenture, HCL Technologies, McKinsey & Company, IBM, Blackstone, PWC, Summit Partners, or One Equity Partners, some of the leading companies in their sectors have demonstrably improved their operations as a result of partnering with Technology Holdings. In the midst of these transactions, some record valuations have also been achieved. For example, the firm reached the highest valuation for a Salesforce partner when it sold S4G to McKinsey & Company for 5x revenue, as well as the highest valuation for a ServiceNow partner upon selling DoItWise to Inetum for 4.5x revenue. Diving deeper into some of the most notable transactions that Technology Holdings has closed in the past few years, the firm’s own Kate Geary shares with us the 19 transactions valued at approximately $900 million that the firm secured over a recent 14-month period, beginning in January 2023. Impressively, all of these deals were either cross-border transactions or carried out on behalf of multinational companies, with just some of the investors representing the buyers included Advent, Temasek, Bain Capital, and Frontenac. Even after these 14 months, Technology Holdings went on to close a further six transactions, rounding out 2024 on a high. As it takes its
10 | Acquisition International, January 2025 Leading-Edge Physical IP Solutions For almost a decade, DXCorr Design Inc. has been a pioneer in the field of IP solutions, leading the charge when it comes to both design and results. Working towards its mission of designing the best embedded physical IP the world has ever seen, this innovative firm is bucking the trend of executing physical design relating to foundry IPs by designing deep submicron integrated units and fully customised very-large-scale integration (VLSI) analogue and digital circuits, resulting in it being recognised with the title of Most Innovative Physical IP Development Firm 2025 – USA. Contact: Nirmalya Ghosh Company: DXCorr Design Inc. Web Address: https://www.dxcorr.com/ In a world where there is a mobile phone in almost every pocket and a smartwatch on nearly every wrist, every tech business strives to deliver the best PPAL (power, performance, area, and leakage-key metrics) across its chips in the least amount of time possible. Where others simply try, DXCorr goes beyond the capabilities of its competitors in the VLSI space to rise to the challenge and deliver, even when this means developing purposebuilt in-house tools to exceed even the most demanding specifications for client projects. Designing and building equipment that operates in the furthest reaches of possibility in this space, DXCorr delivers unprecedented performance and power efficiency for every industry thanks to its game-changing circuits. From the base-level IPs and standard cells used by almost every physical design firm through to bespoke designs for more niche and specialised systems, the firm’s physical IP arrangements – which it embeds in a series of state-of-the-art process hubs – boast a variety of clever system-on-chip (SoC) designs. From the aforementioned standard cells right through to its IP-SRAMs, CAMS, multiports, and memory subsystems, DXCorr’s unique designs benefit from the firm’s hardware and software prowess, ensuring consistent excellence across both the chip design and delivery processes. Underpinning this commitment to excellence with specific custom blocks and a remarkable team of physical designers, this is a firm capable of moving the needle and going the extra mile, all without ever letting its worldleading standards slip. Driving DXCorr is an encompassing design philosophy which sees computer-aided design potential blended with the algorithmic science of IP deployment. Leveraging the strengths of this overarching philosophy, the firm is able to offer the best PPAL – optimised further through the likes of reduced iteration cycles – to provide a series of unsurpassed physical IP solutions. An encompassing portfolio, DXCorr’s designs are the ‘building blocks’ of SoC, with its customers achieving results greater than they could have expected. On the back of such a comprehensive service, it should come as no surprise to learn that the last decade has played host to the sale of billions of chips fitted with DXCorr’s physical IPs, with its key customers also being some of the biggest companies on the planet – such as Google, Samsung, and Intel. These organisations have benefited from the hundreds of full-custom physical IPs designed by the firm, as well as the more than 60 full chip tape-outs that have also been executed since DXCorr opened its doors in 2006. Not one to dwell too much on the past, no matter how impressive its accomplishments in it may be, DXCorr is seeking to further push the envelope concerning performance in 2025. It is doing this in a number of different ways, such as using its in-house software to carry out a variety of testing processes, without having to spend a fortune on the silicon that is used in chip creation. This software makes the firm confident that it is only the only business of its kind that is capable of crafting best-inclass, industry-specific chips. Immensely proud to be perhaps the last independent refuge for the art of fullcustom physical design – once known as semiconductor design in the days before creating chips became akin to building LEGO – DXCorr recognises that this industry is lacking the creativity that it was once renowned for. Seeking to inject some of this back into the field with solutions that are truly optimised, not just designed for use with any old chip, this is a firm innovating when it comes to the likes of 7, 5, and 3nm advanced process nodes. With DXCorr Design Inc. being named as the Most Innovative Physical IP Development Firm 2025 – USA, this pioneering business in the heart of Silicon Valley that is no stranger to awards and acclaim is certain to continue to encounter success as it moves the needle even further, this thanks to its deep engineering expertise and best-in-class tools and processes. Nov24258
January 2025, Acquisition International | 11 Accelerating Digitalization and Solving SMEs Pain Points: Zapproach Ltd approach Ltd designs, develops, and implements comprehensive solutions to address the unique challenges SMEs face in their digital transformation journey. By offering affordable, cloudbased technologies, the company ensures that SMEs have access to enterprise-grade tools without heavy upfront costs. The company works closely with SMEs to develop a clear digital strategy, ensuring the adoption of the right solutions that align with their business goals. To improve operational efficiency, the company introduces automation tools that streamline key processes such as order management, invoicing, and CRM, allowing SMEs to focus more on growth. Additionally, advanced analytics tools empower businesses with data-driven insights to optimize operations and make informed decisions. Robust digital marketing solutions, including social media integration and email campaigns, expand the marketing reach of SMEs, driving customer acquisition and business growth. Zapproach Ltd has a proven track record of delivering cloud-based application solutions that drive digital transformation across various sectors. One notable achievement involved developing a comprehensive, API-driven application for a national SME digitalization strategy (funded by UNDP), encompassing diverse industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and food production under a single platform. This project underscores Zapproach’s commitment to providing innovative, tailored solutions that address the specific needs of SMEs, facilitating their growth and success in today’s dynamic digital landscape. As the fintech landscape evolves, Zapproach stays ahead by embracing advancements in payment security, AI-driven innovations, and digital onboarding. The company’s proactive approach to regulatory compliance, including AML and FATF standards, positions it as a reliable partner in the industry. By leveraging AI, Zapproach introduces intelligent automation and predictive analytics to its solutions, enhancing efficiency and accuracy. Currently, the Services offered by Zapproach Ltd are as follows: 1. ERP Solutions (Zaccbox): Comprehensive enterprise resource planning software that automates accounting, inventory, HR, payroll, sales, e-invoicing, and statutory reporting. Seamlessly integrates with payment systems and revenue authorities. 2. Payment Solutions: White-label payment gateways and e-wallet solutions with multi-currency support, PCI DSS compliance, fraud detection, and cryptocurrency integration. 3. Custom Software Development: Scalable, workflow-aligned software solutions, including mobile apps and web-based platforms, tailored to unique business needs with intuitive UI/UX design. 4. IT Infrastructure & Support: Cloud infrastructure setup, server security, compliance support, penetration testing, and multi-level application support. Looking ahead, Zapproach Ltd is committed to advancing its global presence by developing sophisticated AI-powered tools for process automation, payments, and sales. The company plans to collaborate with public and private stakeholders to deliver transformative digital solutions, empowering SMEs with scalable, AI-driven technologies to prepare for unforeseen challenges, such as pandemics. By continuously enhancing its AI capabilities, Zapproach aims to ensure clients remain competitive in a rapidly changing market. Contact Zapproach today to explore how our solutions can empower your business growth and help you thrive in the dynamic digital era. Contact: Benita Bagoban Baichu Company: Zapproach Ltd Email: [email protected] Website: https://zapproach.com/ Zapproach Ltd. is a forward-thinking company dedicated to accelerating the digital transformation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). By providing innovative digital solutions, the company addresses common pain points faced by SMEs, helping them grow sustainably, increase efficiency, and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Z Nov24250 “ We drive our partners’ success by delivering customized, tech-driven workflow solutions tailored to industry needs, transforming businesses and accelerating growth. ”
12 | Acquisition International, January 2025 Nov24281 Gearóid McGann: Ireland’s Definitive Commercial Lawyer stablished in 1995, meaning that it will be celebrating its 30th anniversary later this year, Sweeney McGann LLP Solicitors is a modern and progressive legal practice and one of Ireland’s most esteemed law firms. Taking a holistic approach when it comes to business, corporate, and private client law, Sweeney McGann LLP has proven itself more than capable of striking the balance between timeless knowledge and modern understanding, allowing it to serve its clients effectively in today’s complex legal landscape. Gearóid McGann has been a partner at the firm since day one, and it is ultimately thanks to his effective leadership skills in Sweeney McGann LLP’s commercial, corporate governance, and employment/ labour law divisions that it has reached a point where it can deliver its comprehensive service suite to clients of all sizes across almost every industry. On the back of this, Gearóid has also established a diverse client base of his own, cementing him as a foremost practitioner in every aspect of commercial law. A founding partner of this dynamic and versatile firm, Gearóid McGann has been practising commercial and employment law and litigation for more than three decades, and his storied career has taken him to courts throughout Ireland. As one of the most renowned commercial and corporate law solicitors in the country, Gearóid has worked a number of high-profile cases over the years, acting on behalf of several financial institutions and advising clients from a variety of sectors on corporate and commercial legal matters. Not only have these cases afforded Gearóid experience like no other in his speciality areas, they have led to an impeccable reputation built on the cornerstones of skill and expertise. This has not gone unnoticed in industry circles, and Gearóid has received acclaim for many of the cases he has taken on, such as when he represented the Limerick Vinters and secured the landmark decision for pubs to be allowed to open on Good Friday. In winning this case, Gearóid also won Sweeney McGann LLP a number of coveted awards. Ever humble, Gearóid is not the sort of character afraid to share the spotlight, and he sees this award as a reflection of the excellence of the wider firm as much as it is about the expertise he continues to embody in this profession. Alongside Managing Partner Shane O’Neill, the man with whom he heads up the firm’s corporate and commercial departments, Gearóid’s expertise in commercial property law deserves a special mention. Here, the aforementioned duo act in transactions for all parties, delivering every service with precision. Finally, it also worth noting that, aside from corporate and commercial law, employment law, and commercial property law, Sweeny McGann LLP is well versed in the areas of family law, personal injury, licensing, medical negligence, banking, finance, wills, non-commercial property, and estate planning. In all of the above areas, its valued clients are afforded best-in-class knowledge and a quality of service befitting of one of the Mid-West region’s most renowned and highly sought after legal practices. As this suggests, Sweeney McGann LLP is one of those firms that always puts clients first. Its expert team ensure this is the case by knowing all clients on a personal level and supporting the local community they have been a pillar of for decades. Reinforcing this is the fact that David J. Sweeney – the second founding partner of the firm – was appointed to the revered notary public position in 2011 and has valiantly served his community in a variety of non-contentious matters ever since. In essence, Sweeney McGann LLP Solicitors is a beacon of trust in what can be a scary, alienating environment. With international expertise underpinned by local speciality, the firm is continuing to secure the best outcomes, even as it approaches 30 years in the field. When it comes to its distinction in commercial settings, Gearóid McGann is the man at the heart of its ensuring success. Be it commercial property law, employment law, or anything in between, Gearóid’s comprehensive knowledge makes him the go-to lawyer. Contact: Gearóid McGann Company: Sweeney McGann LLP Solicitors Web Address: https://smglaw.ie/ One of the leading legal firms in Ireland’s Munster/ Mid-West region, Sweeney McGann LLP Solicitors is situated in the heart of Limerick, one of the country’s biggest and most populous urban areas. From this central location, the firm delivers its high-quality legal services to a number of clients, from those within its own city through to people across Ireland searching for excellent legal representation. One of the firm’s leading lawyers is Gearóid McGann, the man we have recognised as the Leading Commercial Property Transactions Lawyer of the Year 2024 – ROI. E
January 2025, Acquisition International | 13 By sharing its wisdom with potential investors who may not have intimate knowledge of the sector they are moving into, Chameleon Strategic Management identifies USPs that companies have and aids them in expanding their in creative ways: this includes introducing product and services USPs – implementation, production, and benefits – to other sectors, helping SMEs to scale up and leverage sunk investments. Combining research and analysis with identification, costing with modelling, and algorithms with natural thought processes, Chameleon Strategic Management’s services cover every angle within M&A. Chameleon Strategic Management’s dedication has recently been highlighted by us at Acquisition International – and we’re pleased to bestow the company with the title of Best SME & Strategic Business Consulting Firm 2024 – Western Europe. Managing change isn’t always easy but, with Chameleon Strategic Management, it doesn’t have to be disruptive. Reach out today to find out more. Contact: Ralph Deter Company: Chameleon Strategic Management Limited Website: https://chameleon-management.com/en/ The Art of Change with Chameleon Strategic Management Since its establishment 26 years ago, Chameleon Strategic Management has been an unwavering source of support and consulting services for key stakeholders across a spectrum of sectors. The firm began its journey working with private equity in the UK, where it identified possible companies to invest or divest across a multitude of industries. The firm saw the need for consolidation for within the multiple markets, from those based on short-term, debt-based, individual investments, to strategic acquisitions that were longer term, in need of better tools, and finally generating higher multiples. With such a varied client base of SMEs, Chameleon Strategic Management has studied its industry and formulated strategies for its own success – as well as the success of stakeholders. The company perfected the identification process, especially specific companies which were most likely to be bought by their competitors or other investors for longer term changes, as this is simply the first step of connecting the dots. Once the identification step has been completed, Chameleon Strategic Management works with all key stakeholders to inform them, listen to them, and find out what is working well and what needs attention. Focusing on these aspects, the firm moves with its clients every step of the way to form and implement strategies which ensure each part of change can be a positive influence on the future of the business, its existing teams, and its investors. Furthermore, Chameleon Strategic Management prides itself on its ability to keep worries at bay throughout mergers and acquisitions. The firm is aware of the ripple effects that can come from a business changing hands, and does all it can to guarantee it is there for the people involved. From senior management down to the individuals implementing the changes, they offer ways to manage change subtly, securely, efficiently, and effectively. As the firm draws on its previous experience spanning decades of practice, it is able to streamline the process across any sector through its strategy and modelling services. As Chameleon Strategic Management knows SMEs, conglomerates, and investors well, the firm is dedicated to achieving the best outcome possible but in the most digestible way for the individuals involved. Additionally, utilising its professional, secure, and solid research and analysis to justify the changes – especially within the context of any sector – Chameleon Strategic Management ensures that investors and conglomerates are able to be on the same page for a fruitful future together. Although the globe is experiencing a lot of financial changes, with many fluctuations of a tempestuous nature, Chameleon Strategic Management has always been focused on effective costing as part of its service delivery. This inevitably helps companies to see the bigger picture from the very beginning, helping them to feel confident in the present moment and in the future to come. Founded in 1999 by Ralph Deter, Chameleon Strategic Management is a seasoned expert in the M&A sphere. From the very start Chameleon Strategic Management has been a sturdy partner internationally for both investors and businesses looking to make change in a subtle yet effective way and, here, we explore the very essence of the firm’s being as it wins Best SME & Strategic Business Consulting Firm 2024 – Western Europe. Nov24298
14 | Acquisition International, January 2025 Nov24303 Tailored, Results-Driven Business Transformation Solutions Working out of the bustling Swiss city of Zurich, Advisory Group AG empowers its clients by helping them to maximise their potential and add measurable value to their companies at every turn. Specialising in everything from comprehensive management consulting services through to programme leadership, digitalisation, or even offering up a second opinion on stalled projects, this consulting firm ensures that its clients are always top priority. For this, Advisory Group has more than earned the title of Leading Management Consulting Firm of the Year 2024 – Zurich. Contact: Dr Wladimir Kovacic Company: Advisory Group AG Web Address: http://www.advisorygroup.ch/ Advisory Group AG was established back in 2005, meaning that later this year it will mark 20 years of operating successfully in the dynamic environments synonymous with modern industry. Despite the constant challenges of this sphere, the firm operates atop a track record of constant success, and it is incredibly proud to have implemented a string of major projects for some of the most respected companies across both its home nation and abroad. Driven by its client-service orientation, an enthusiasm to act, and a unique ability to nurture trust through lasting relationships, Advisory Group possesses both specialised expertise and a suite of tailored solutions. Few are able to compete with the depth of knowledge and encompassing service delivered by the firm, and it is for this reason that it has carved out a reputation for starting where others stop. By thinking outside the box yet underpinning its approach with proven and refined processes, quality is delivered as standard. Founded by Dr Wladimir Kovacic, a visionary leader with a successful career in senior roles and an unbridled passion for empowering businesses, the firm leverages the expertise of its founder to revolutionise decision-making processes for such discerning businesses as banking and insurance giants, as well as trade, manufacturing and service companies. Rather than simply solving the problems of these operations, the firm and its team serve as catalysts for their long-term growth – combining cutting-edge innovation with bespoke, scalable solutions. Although all consultancies may initially seem the same, their differences can be felt as soon as a business starts working with them, and their unique personalities quickly shine through. These variations can make all the difference for clients, as seen through the unique partnerships with universities and other research institutions boasted by the team at Advisory Group. When combined with the firm’s wealth of expertise and independent nature, these joint ventures ensure consistent, unprecedented success, even when others have failed. For example, Advisory Group has taken over many critical transformation and outsourcing projects over the past two decades, finding success in one way or another with them all. More than half of its success stories – 60% – are projects that previous consulting firms have already tried their hand with, to no avail. Some of these firms are even renowned on an international scale, highlighting that size does not necessarily result in quality – especially when bespoke, full-service firms such as Advisory Group exist. With 2025 well underway, Advisory Group’s commitment to results is stronger than ever. As for the next few years, the firm is excited to be entering into an era of innovation, where its meticulous blend of state-of-the-art technology and strategic leadership will help clients to rethink what is possible. “Our roadmap is centred around empowering organisations to thrive by addressing key areas that shape the COO/CIO agenda,” explains Dr Wladimir Kovacic, “including AI adoption, sourcing strategies, and operational excellence.” Be it optimising supply chains for improved cost and speed, streamlining complex processes, or enabling digital transformations, the solutions afforded by the firm not only deliver enhanced efficiency, they also pave the way for sustainable growth. Recognised as the Leading Management Consulting Firm of the Year 2024 – Zurich, Advisory Group AG is continuing to lead the charge when it comes to revolutionising sourcing and transformation projects in Switzerland, the EU, and the UK – a testament to its industry-leading ability. “ The positive feedback we consistently receive— from clients, partners, and industry peers— speaks volumes. We’re not just delivering successful projects; we’re cultivating a reputation for excellence, innovation, and trustworthiness. ” After all, consulting is nothing if not a world of promises, but few firms are actually capable of delivering on what they say, especially in an environment of fleeting trends and ongoing regulatory shifts. Since its ethical code is grounded in the Christian principles of teamwork, fairness, and trust, Advisory Group never just says what companies want to hear – it actually delivers on its promises, something corroborated by an array of testimonials.
January 2025, Acquisition International | 15 Driving Business Transformations with Essential Consulting Skills results-driven operation going beyond simple mechanics to unlock transformative mindsets, Consulting Skill achieves stellar outcomes by helping professionals to master the skills and behaviours necessary for success in today’s corporate environment. As Mike Griffiths, the company’s CEO, puts it: “You need coaching and feedback, not just from us but from peers and experts in the client environment. We find that this improves mutual understanding and the cross-fertilisation of ideas across levels and divisions.” It is this mindset that led to Robin Dickie, the former CEO of WHSmith and Barclays, saying that Consulting Skill was, “the only partner who acted like they were jointly responsible for my results.” He is far from the only person to notice this, as Mike and his team have trained more than 250,000 professionals across the globe, delivering an average ROI of between 20 and 50 times the initial cost. 20+ years of ongoing, industry-leading research into successful behavioural patterns ensures this is the case. Breakthroughs are only made possible with the right implementation, and achieving the right implementation means starting at the beginning. This is why Consulting Skill offers a core consulting programme, which is its most popular offering. In using the term ‘consulting’, the firm doesn’t just appeal to actual consultants – it recognises that every professional needs these consulting skills, regardless of the nature of their profession. Solving problems is consulting, and yet many companies lack the necessary skills in this area. “Our core consulting process programme is designed around a hypothesis-based methodology encouraging critical thinking and data-driven decision-making,” explains Mike. “Participants are trained to formulate hypotheses, identify potential evidence to support/refute them, and rigorously test assumptions against real-world data.” As it has been proven that people often back information confirming preexisting beliefs, Consulting Skill’s structured approach deliberately countermeasures against this by including many perspectives. The harsh truth is that the initial impact had by most training courses in professional settings simply doesn’t last, with businesses soon falling back into the same old routines. Doing things differently, Consulting Skill Ltd has been thriving in this sector for more than 30 years as a result of its mission to go that extra mile – as seen through the 1,000+ projects it has delivered for leading organisations across a wealth of countries. Named as the Best Professional Development Advisory Firm 2024 – UK, we explore the firm’s unique strategies in more detail below. A Nov24398 that this is because it is essential for customers to understand exactly what they are getting from a business in this age of mistrust. Unless consulting skills are demonstrated in sales conversations, pitches are unlikely to materialise – as product descriptions or demos no longer cut it. Mike likens this to the difference between viewing a menu in a restaurant and actually tasting the dish itself. Of course, the ever-changing nature of business means that the skills which need to be delivered are themselves fluctuating, and this is especially true when it comes to leadership. In the past five years, leadership has changed considerably, be it as a result of the shift to hybrid working, the greater emphasis on wellbeing, or the need to integrate technology like AI into enterprises. Due to this, Consulting Skill spends a great deal of time working on thought leadership with clients, ensuring their learning remains a continuous journey. Finally, leveraging this cutting-edge technology for its own gains, Consulting Skill Ltd has invested in AI to streamline its behavioural science research and more accurately predict results. In turn, it is able to refine its professional services training further, paving the way for sustained growth for its valued clients. Its use of such systems also reflects a keenness to evolve alongside the market which it is a part of – the cherry on top of a firm setting the standard in the fields of consulting skills training and professional advisory. Contact: Mike Griffiths Company: Consulting Skill Ltd Web Address: https://www.consultingskill.com/ “ We have introduced this content to over 500 organisations, including 40% of the Fortune 100 and 17 of the top 20 consulting firms. Clients report that it saves on average at least 20% of their time on projects. ” As for why this programme is both the most popular and the best performing in terms of ROI across the firm’s portfolio, Mike tells us
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