Stay positive, stay agile
Interview with Thomas Laible, Managing Director
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are a key strategy companies use to grow, enter new markets, and gain new capabilities. In today’s global and highly competitive environment, M&A activity is driven not only by expansion goals but also by the need to adapt to rapid technological change, digital transformation, and shifting consumer demands. Transfer Partners Unternehmensentwicklungsgesellschaft mbH is a highly experienced partner for M&A strategies.
European Business: Mr. Laible, could you briefly explain Transfer Partners’ business idea?
Thomas Laible: In simple terms, our business involves either selling a company on behalf of a client or, the other way round, helping a client acquire a company. As we focus on different industries, our research team analyzes markets and valuations.
European Business: As one of the company’s founders, could you tell us about your personal background?
Thomas Laible: I founded Transfer Partners 25 years ago, although my professional background was quite different. I studied aerospace engineering in Stuttgart and Paris and hold a degree in aerospace engineering. In our industry, there is a common saying: ‘It’s not rocket science’. In my case, it literally was. I entered the field through an investment bank, where I learned the fundamentals about mergers and acquisitions. In consulting firms, it is common to have teams composed of people from a wide range of backgrounds; philosophers, mathematicians, and even theologians. But they all share one thing – the ability of clear, structured thinking. Back then, I had two colleagues who, like me, were eager to start their own business. We decided to spin off and found our own company; this is how Transfer Partners was established. Back then, we were still quite young, we had no references, so it was a risky decision. However, in hindsight, it was a combination of hard work and luck that allowed us to establish ourselves.
European Business: Could you outline Transfer Partners’ core areas of focus?
Thomas Laible: We place a strong emphasis on business succession. Compared to the past, more companies are sold today. Previously, it was generally taken for granted that businesses would remain within the family. Fathers often expected their children to take over the family business, and this was rarely questioned. Today, however, this is no longer always the case; many children have different ideas and career plans. In addition, economic conditions and markets have evolved significantly.
European Business: The economic situation is challenging and we have faced many crises such as the pandemic and the war in Ukraine. How does your company cope with these challenges?
Thomas Laible: We have experienced many crises; 9/11, the financial crisis, COVID. Each time we asked ourselves how things would continue. Yet, as a service provider, crises also bring new opportunities. During COVID for example, e-commerce grew significantly and opened up new opportunities for transactions. Today, transformation in industry is creating similar dynamics. Some companies are seeking to diversify while others are looking for new markets or partners. The greatest opportunity we benefit from arises from the existential reflection of entrepreneurs — many question whether to continue or to sell.
European Business: What makes Transfer Partners stand out from the market?
Thomas Laible: First of all, we are very grounded and share the same ideas as our clients. We don’t buy fancy cars; instead, we have always reinvested in companies. Then, we don’t pursue every deal but act reliably and honestly. If we believe something won’t work out, we communicate it openly. This transparency leads to long-term relationships and referrals. Last but not least, we bring strong expertise, a multidisciplinary team and a true 360-degree view. Over time, we have learned that mindset and values matter more than technical expertise and that agility is the key.