The M&A market in 2027: valuations, deal activity and the outlook for buyers and sellers

What is really happening in the UK mid-market M&A market - and what could 2027 bring? In this discussion, Ricky Lane, Partner at HMT, joins Head of Business Development at Hardman & Co, Richard Angus, and Founder and CEO of MarktoMarket, Doug Lawson, to explore the forces shaping deal activity, from founder motivations and valuation expectations to the availability of capital and changing buyer dynamics. The conversation looks at what buyers are prioritising, where competitive tension can make a difference, and how deal structures are evolving to bridge valuation gaps. The discussion also considers the role of earn-outs, private equity and debt funding, and the changing opportunities for management teams. With sentiment around deal volumes remaining cautious, is the market actually stronger than the headlines suggest? And what might this mean for M&A activity in 2027? Watch the full discussion for Ricky Lane’s perspective on the trends, opportunities and challenges shaping the mid-market. Hardman & Co’s Private Company Valuation Forum brings together market experts to explore current activity, valuation trends and the issues affecting private companies and their investors. #M&A #PrivateEquity #UKMidMarket #CorporateFinance #Investing #BusinessAcquisitions #2027Outlook Important notice: This content has been prepared purely for information purposes, and should not be construed as an offer, or the solicitation of an offer, to buy or sell any security, product, service or investment. The companies or legal entities covered in this content may or may not pay us a fixed fee for this content to be made available. Investments in small and mid-cap corporations and foreign entities are speculative and involve a high degree of risk. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his or her investment, and the securities or legal entities mentioned in this content may not be suitable or appropriate for all investors. Each investor’s particular needs, investment objectives and financial situation were not taken into account in the preparation of this content. Each investor must make his or her own independent decisions and obtain their own independent advice regarding any information, projects, securities, tax treatment or financial instruments mentioned herein. The fact that Hardman & Co has made available through this content various information constitutes neither a recommendation to enter into a particular transaction nor a representation that any financial instrument is suitable or appropriate for you. Each investor should consider whether an investment strategy of the purchase or sale of any product or security is appropriate for them in the light of their investment needs, objectives and financial circumstances. For more information, please read our full disclaimers: www.hardmanandco.com/research-disclosures www.hardmanandco.com/disclaimer