- Buyers for Families and Owner-Operators
- Building on Owners' Accomplishments
- Focused on Long-Term Success
- Capital and Guidance for Veterans Buying Businesses
- Providing Jobs for Veterans
We Buy and Grow Companies
Operators. Investors. Veterans.
Semper acquires companies that need new leadership and supports other veterans buying businesses from retiring owners. We shoot straight and are a great match for owners who care about their business’s future, need a successor to lead it, and want to sell to an honest and experienced partner that will provide long-term ownership.
We are self-funded and sometimes raise capital from successful business people who help us grow companies. We pursue long-term growth, continual improvement, jobs for veterans, and rewarding work for all of our employees.
When buying businesses directly, we insert CEOs with military and business leadership experience. When backing veterans in business purchases, we provide capital and insight that was developed through small business ownership and dozens of M&A transactions.
Testimonials
Our Name
Semper comes from the Coast Guard’s motto, Semper Paratus, which is Latin for Always Ready. It’s also part of the motto of the Marine Corps (Semper Fidelis), Navy (Semper Fortis), and Army and Air Force units. The name Semper shows our veteran focus and commitment to long-term ownership.
Buyers that Build on Your Legacy
Semper invests in steady-performing businesses that fill durable customer needs. We and the veterans that we back seek to buy businesses from retiring owner-operators and family-owners whose business needs a new leader.
Company Traits
- Consistent annual cashflows of $750K – $5M
- Loyal customers with modest concentration
- Skilled and committed employees
Owner Characteristics
- Concerned about business’s long-term future
- Committed to a successful transition
- Willing to provide some seller financing
Industry Focus
- B2B or B2G:
- Niche manufacturers
- Facility/industrial/home services
- Value-add distributors
Other
- Continental US focus
- Avoid start-ups and declining industries
- Pay market-based fees to intermediaries
- Consider VOSBs and SDVOSBs
Selling a business is a huge decision. Buyer types differ, so owners must consider what they most value to find the right buyer. Semper is not the right buyer for every owner, but we’re perfect for some. The info below will help you decide.
Business Buyer Comparison
Typical Private Equity Firm | Typical Corporate Acquirer | ||
---|---|---|---|
Goals | Grow long-term cashflows; employ veterans | Maximize investor returns—and PE firm profits | Grow earnings at the mothership |
Approach | Grow and improve | Try growing, then sell company | Integrate your company; often cut people/facilities |
Ownership Period | Long-term | 3-6 years | Long-term |
Retain Culture & Preserve Legacy? | Mostly | Unlikely. Two new owners in just a few years | Unlikely. Often a new name, leader, and culture |
Management plan | We insert a new CEO with military and business leadership experience | Most firms want management to stay | Varies. May not care if management stays |
Focus | Dedicated CEO and advisory board. Limited holdings | Own many businesses; buy & sell often | Corporate results; often have quarterly focus |
‘Skin in the Game’ | Semper's team invests a large stake | Very low. Almost all funds from outside investors | Very low, unless family or operator-owned |
Retain some Equity to Sell Later? | Will consider if desired by owner | Yes, this is common | Uncommon |
Common Seller Considerations
Many buyers erase owners’ legacies by consolidating facilities, cutting employees, and/or imposing their culture. Semper preserves owners’ legacies by running the business well, keeping businesses’ names, and treating employees fairly.
Semper’s experience and straight-forward approach lead to efficiency and trust. Many other buyers lack knowledge, change terms at the last minute, fake interest to view confidential info, or tie owners up with an offer then fail to close.
Many buyers plan to let people go and are more concerned with short-term results than employees. Semper works with the existing team, grows capabilities, rewards appropriately, and holds each other accountable, if needed.
It often makes more financial sense for an owner not to sell. When an owner is selling, Semper wants a win-win deal. Occasionally, others pay more because they’re cutting costs (your employees or facility) or can otherwise grow earnings.
We’re Excited You’re Considering Semper