Middle market companies have faced many challenges to growth, but the tide is now turning. Previously, we had observed the dumbbell effect, where at either end of the spectrum massive corporations and small businesses flourished while middle market companies were caught in between. Unlike large multinational corporations, many middle market companies cannot leverage the same economies of scale to deal with price cuts, consolidation, and regulatory challenges. On the other hand, middle market companies do not have the same flexibility as startups to move swiftly in the market.
The Dumbbell Effect: Massive corporations and small businesses flourish at either end of the spectrum, while the middle market is squeezed in between.
Corporations Sell Non-core Businesses
While this environment was challenging, it also created a unique opportunity for those who could seize opportunity and fill the void. Now the market has shifted and instead of consolidating, many large corporations are shedding non-core businesses in order to focus on fast-growing, profitable business units. P&G is in the process of selling 105 brands to refocus on 10 fast-growing category-based business units. Recently P&G sold Duracell to Berkshire Hathaway, various hair care brands including Pert, Shamtu and Blendax to Germany’s Henkel, and its fragrance, color cosmetics and hair color business to Coty.
Growth Through Strategic Acquisitions
Divestments by large corporations can generate opportunities for middle market companies looking to grow rapidly through M&A. With acquisition, middle market companies have the opportunity to quickly execute their growth strategy, whether it’s by adding a new product or service, acquiring a competitor, or expanding into a new geographic or vertical market. Overall, middle market M&A has remained relatively stable when compared to global values, suggesting that although mega-deals may be slowing down, smaller, strategic acquisitions are still being executed. Now is the time to carefully consider your opportunities and execute your growth strategy.
