Accelerating International Growth: Expanding a Business into Canada

When current times are defined by economic uncertainty and shifting market conditions, executing a successful business acquisition with precision, speed, and long-term vision, demands more than just opportunity meets timing. It requires the right partner. For this client, an ambitious, global business seeking to expand its footprint in Canada, that partner was Richter.

Where to turn, when you want to expand into Canada

The client had a clear goal: expand into the Canadian market through acquisition. But they weren’t interested in just any acquisition. This would be their first North American platform; a pivotal move that needed to reflect their North American ambitions and growth strategy. “They came to us with this clear goal,” says Richter partner, Brett Miller. “They weren’t just looking to make a deal. They wanted to lay down a foundation for long-term growth in North America. That takes more than just Merger and Acquisition experience, it takes true partnership.”

The strategy had to be supported by a solid operating business. To achieve this, they needed a partner that delivered insights into the Canadian landscape, understood their strategic vision, and was able to execute quickly. They wanted a partner that would match their goals and expectations with the market realities.

For Richter, this mandate was about more than identifying a suitable acquisition target, it meant developing a trusted relationship so the client would feel confident throughout the process and ultimately, make the right purchase.

From goal to strategic game plan

Having previously sold one of the top players in the target market, Richter had a proven track record and strong understanding of the market dynamics and competitive landscape. “As a foreign entity, what really gave the client confidence in working with us was our market knowledge and industry understanding,” says partner, Michael Black. “We understood the dynamics, the key players, as well as the gaps and opportunities in the market. The fact we knew the main players and understood their current realities gave the client confidence right away”.

To demonstrate their commitment and thorough approach, the team quickly curated a list of  high-potential companies for the client to consider. Beyond this, was their ability to work seamlessly through language barriers between English and non-English speakers.

Once the initial shortlist was established and Richter connected with interested parties, the field quickly narrowed to one target, an ideal match in operational potential. Through its integrated service model, the client was able to leverage Richter’s breadth of services, accessing both market entry strategy, buy-side transaction advisory and tax diligence and structuring, under one roof. This cohesive approach ensured that no detail was overlooked, and that all the moving pieces were speaking with each other.

The result? What typically takes upwards of 18 months in a volatile economic climate, was completed in under a year. The transaction, from strategy and target identification to signed agreement, was closed within an 8-month window; a testament to Richter’s ability to work efficiently and effectively under pressure.

With a multilingual team and the ability to work across time zones and markets, Richter was uniquely positioned to support global enterprises. They didn’t just translate the Canadian business landscape, they helped the client navigate it with confidence.

“Beyond the acquisition this acted as a launchpad for something much bigger. The client gained a strong foothold in the Canadian market, built on trust and strategic alignment,” says Black.

Impressed by the team’s responsiveness, precision, and understanding of their business needs, the client has already initiated the process of acquiring a second company in an adjacent industry. “We’re honoured we can help further their ambitions and take action on their next goals by bringing direction, insight, and seamless execution to the table,” says Miller.

How Richter Can Help

Are you a business owner or a family business looking to grow its legacy and expand across markets, our Transaction and Strategy advisors are here to help!