Here is a quick snapshot of what I'm seeing in my search across the UK. I am hoping this is helpful for other searchers and investors/operators in the region. What I’m seeing in the market: 1) Banks are underwriting conservatively, particularly on first-time acquisitions: * Strong preference for relevant industry experience * Equity contributions often trending higher (sometimes 30–40%+) * Focus on businesses closer to ~£1M EBITDA * Some lenders capping leverage at ~3.0x EBITDA That said, I’ve found debt brokers to be highly valuable partners to unlock debt options that are not directly available via through direct bank outreach. 2) Investor appetite skews larger,
most investors I’ve spoken with are keen to engage once there’s a live deal, with a clear preference for: * £1M+ EBITDA opportunities and at times £10M+ EBITDA preference * Institutional-quality processes and materials There’s a noticeable gap at the lower end of the market, which creates an interesting opportunity for disciplined buyers. 3) Brokers require persistence: * Proof of funds expectations are high (often beyond initial bank letters) * Consistent outreach and relationship-building are key * Buy-side advisors can be helpful, but their costs require care consideration I’ve had some traction through persistence and targeted outreach, and that momentum is building. 4) Deal Flow Observations: * Significant volume of very small businesses (sub £200k EBITDA) * Some opportunities with unclear financials (aggressive add backs) * High frequency of care/nursing home businesses — passing for now due to operational intensity and regulatory complexity I’m actively pursuing: * UK & Ireland-based B2B services businesses * £750K–£1.5M EBITDA * Recurring or contracted revenue * Low customer concentration * Limited owner dependency *Sectors of interest include payroll bureaus, compliance services, IT MSPs, and outsourced operational support businesses. What I’m looking for: * Investors interested in backing disciplined searchers in the UK/Ireland * Operators or lenders active in this segment who are open to sharing insights * Introductions to quality intermediaries or proprietary opportunities I’m seeing encouraging signs and remain highly active — if anything here resonates, I’d welcome a conversation.