James Clifton has brought together Grenfell James, Anthony Parmiter and John Offord, the three directors, who between them have a wide range of experience in management, corporate finance and acquisitions/disposals, to give a personal and proactive service to owners of private companies looking for an exit route. This could be partial or complete.

If a sale is thought to be the most desirable route we will work with the seller to achieve the best possible price. Most private companies in the United Kingdom are sold passively through corporate finance or local accountants. Relatively few potential buyers are approached.

James Clifton uses a combination of research, advertising, mailing and personal contacts to ensure that sellers have a wide choice of potential buyers, not necessarily in the UK.

Whilst looking at historical profitability multiples may give some indication of a company’s value, this is most likely just to be an average price. It is only when potential purchasers see the strategic advantage of a particular acquisition will the greatest value be realised for the seller.

We offer a full service for sellers to help them to present their company in the most positive light, emphasising the unique aspects of the business, ie those that are going to get them a premium price from the right buyer.

To assist in our specialised venture, we have appointed Mr Amber Vaidya (trading as Hanover International) as sole agent to act on our behalf for India and the Middle East project finance.

Amber brings with him considerable management expertise in the area of takeovers and collaborations. He will represent the company as an independent consultant, and will be responsible for liaison between the client agencies.

James Clifton will also act for potential buyers, but we make it quite clear to all parties who we are acting for and who is responsible for our fees. We do not act for both buyer and seller.

The company is owned and managed by the three directors.