The Mergers and Acquisitions ("M&A") specialists at APEX provide middle market clients with proactive representation in the competitive M&A marketplace. We provide clients with a complete range of transaction options with a view of maximizing the value inherent in the business. These options may include identifying a transaction partner for a strategic fit, developing the business for future sale or increasing liquidity. Our success is measured by the ability to identify and implement these options for the business owner. APEX accomplishes this by adhering to a rational and systematic three-step approach which focuses on:

	Defining the business owners' goals and objectives;
	Creating a suitable and viable market for the business, and;
	Creatively negotiating and closing the transaction.

Identifying the specific goals of the business owner is the most important step in the process and forms the basis of all services to be provided by APEX. These goals may include the immediate sale of the business, holding the business and building value for the future, a recapitalization, or partial sale of the business. The variations are endless; however, APEX can help you decide which is the best strategy for you.

Once these goals are identified, the next step is to create a competitive bidding environment for the business, which is accomplished by executing a highly customized and focused marketing plan. Our marketing plan identifies qualified transaction partners and provides them with the information they require to make well informed business decisions. This proactive methodology facilitates the process of entering into a successful transaction.

Our M&A specialists have extensive experience representing both buyers and sellers of publicly traded and closely held businesses. This unique perspective gives APEX the ability to better manage transaction flow and optimize the results for our clients. There are also many alternatives to consider when structuring a transaction, such as a stock sale, asset sale, merger, spin-off, etc. The transaction structure can have a material effect on the amount of after-tax dollars realized by the seller. APEX M&A specialists have experience with all types of transactions and can assist the business owner in structuring a transaction in the most beneficial manner, from an operational and tax perspective.

APEX also provides sell-side or divestiture solutions for public and private corporations. These transactions are frequently entered into by a company to unlock hidden value and increase overall shareholder value. APEX helps its clients by assisting in the divesting of such assets, while at the same time permitting the company to refocus their attention to more relevant strategies, planning and business issues.

Our divestiture services provide the following benefits, including:

	We manage the expectations and relationships between management and parent company;
	We take exclusive responsibility for the entire transaction process, from the first stages through closing, which enables you to focus on your core business issues;
	We combine the advantage of being a skilled intermediary and advocate during critical negotiations and valuation discussions, while assuring the highest levels of attention are paid to transaction details necessary for a successful closing;
	We give you access to all of our middle market merger contacts and time-refined processes for executing superior mergers and acquisitions.