Selling a business is often a long process, especially in highly specialised sectors. This was the case for Mr. Picot, who founded Quadrature 25 years ago, a company specialising in the development of industrial production management software. He poured his heart, time, energy, and resources into it until the time came for retirement. To pass the torch, he was looking for a competent team that could fully grasp the challenges of his industry. Here’s a look back at this business transfer, led by Ianis Fourneau.
Mr. Picot, what led you to decide to sell your company?
In my case, two key factors influenced my decision. First, my age, because when I began the process, I was approaching retirement. My goal was to complete the transfer before that time. Second, my role as an entrepreneur was incredibly demanding. After a fast-paced career, I was exhausted and I had to stop to protect my health.
Why did you choose BestValue to support you in this process?
I first met members of the BestValue team at an event organised by CBC. They were presenting BestValue’s services and explaining the process of business transfer. Their expertise and clear understanding of the subject immediately convinced me. I had other opportunities, but they all felt too impersonal. At BestValue, the team truly took the time to listen to me, to understand my business, and to carry out a thorough assessment. Throughout the process, they remained accessible and proactive.
How did the selling process go?
After conducting an in-depth analysis of the company, they began searching for potential buyers and presented them to me. In the end, the selected buyer was someone who had already reached out to me directly.
When described like this, the process seems simple… but in reality, it was very long! The buyer was a meticulous professional, and I wouldn’t have stood a chance negotiating alone. Ianis Fourneau and his team, along with a specialised lawyer, Maître Crahay (from Mosal Law Firm in Liège), were invaluable in assisting me through the different negotiation phases and addressing the buyer’s concerns.
The transfer was ultimately successful. How did things go afterwards?
Overall, the transition went well. The buyer had visited the company frequently, so there were no major surprises when I left. However, on the financial side, it was a different story… There were many discussions, some of them quite intense. But even after the signing (and still today), Ianis Fourneau and the BestValue team have remained by my side, without limits or restrictions! We are now on track to finalise the transaction completely.
If you had to sum up your collaboration with BestValue in one word?
Without hesitation: friendliness. I always had a great connection with them, and that matters a lot to me!
