Why rushing to market costs you more than you think

In M&A, speed can be a competitive advantage, but rushing unprepared into the market often does more harm than good.

Here’s why:

🔹 You lose control of the narrative.
If your numbers, story, or positioning aren’t tight, buyers will make their own assumptions, usually pessimistic ones.

🔹 You risk “deal fatigue.”
When a process drags because the prep wasn’t done upfront (missing data, unclear strategy, unrealistic valuation), buyer interest fades and so does price.

🔹 You only get one first impression.
The best buyers are usually, though not always, the first ones approached. If they see a messy process, you rarely get a second shot.

🔹 You leave money on the table.
A rushed process often leads to reactive negotiations, seller concessions, and ultimately a lower outcome.

The best M&A processes are deliberately paced: well-prepared, well-structured, and built to inspire buyer confidence.

If you’re considering a sale, invest the time upfront to get it right, your future self (and your bank balance) will thank you.

Accord Marketing acquires Acacia Avenue

Accord Marketing Ltd today announces the acquisition of Acacia Avenue, marking a significant step in strengthening its ability to deliver integrated, insight-driven marketing solutions to clients across the UK and beyond.

The acquisition brings together two complementary businesses with a shared commitment to strategic thinking, creativity and measurable results. By combining Accord’s scale, resources and performance-led approach with Acacia’s specialist insights expertise and established client relationships, the newly expanded group is well positioned to deliver greater value.

 Clients of both businesses will benefit from an expanded range of services, deeper sector expertise and increased capacity across strategy, creative, digital and performance marketing. The expanded team will enable more integrated campaigns, faster execution, and greater strategic support as clients navigate an increasingly complex marketing landscape.

“This acquisition is a natural fit,” said Sally Winfield, CEO at Accord. “Acacia Avenue shares our values, client-first mindset and belief in marketing that delivers real commercial impact. Together, we’re stronger, more agile and better equipped to support our clients’ ambitions.”

Caroline Whitehill, Director at Acacia, added: “Joining Accord allows us to scale what we do best, while maintaining the close client relationships and quality of work we’re known for. It’s an exciting next chapter for our team and our clients.”

M&A Advisory introduced the parties and advised Acacia Avenue.



Why we focus on marcomms and martech

When we launched M&A Advisory some 15 years ago, we deliberately chose to specialise in marketing communications and marketing technology.

Why? Because this sector isn’t just growing. It’s evolving faster than ever.
🔹 Marcomms is where brands are built, reputations are shaped, and trust is earned.
🔹 Martech is where innovation meets scale, helping businesses connect with their audiences more effectively and intelligently.

By focusing exclusively on these two sectors, we bring:
✅ Deep sector knowledge – we understand the players, trends, and what drives value.
✅ Trusted relationships – we’ve built a network that gives our clients an edge.
✅ Better outcomes – because we know the difference between what looks good on paper and what works in the market.

Our mission is simple: to help the agencies, platforms, and investors shaping this ecosystem achieve smarter, faster, and more successful transactions.

This focus is our strength and it’s why our clients trust us with their biggest decisions.