TriVista Blog

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, middle market companies face unique challenges that demand robust, scalable solutions. As your organization grows and navigates complex operational environments, selecting the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system becomes a critical decision to significantly impact your company’s future success. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps… Read More

Middle-market distribution businesses need advanced technologies to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. A well-chosen Warehouse Management System (WMS) streamlines inventory management, enhances order fulfillment, and integrates seamlessly with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, driving operational efficiency and scalability. Selecting the right Warehouse Management System (WMS) can make or break a middle-market distribution business. The stakes… Read More

As organizations strive to enhance operational efficiency and adapt to evolving market demands, embracing advanced technologies becomes essential. The right WMS not only streamlines inventory management and order fulfilment processes but also integrates seamlessly with other digital tools, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Selecting the right Warehouse Management System (WMS) can make or… Read More

With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and costly, cybersecurity questions to ask have rocketed to the top of boardroom agendas. If you’re a board member or CEO, understanding the intricacies of cybersecurity is not just beneficial; it’s essential. That’s why we’ve curated a list of critical questions you should be asking at your next board… Read More

In 2024, the digital landscape is more treacherous than ever, with cyber threats posing a significant risk to businesses of all sizes. Against this background, private equity (PE) firms and their portfolio companies face unique vulnerabilities that make them particularly attractive targets for cybercriminals. Understanding these vulnerabilities is crucial for PE firms so they can… Read More

In a business world where adaptability is as critical as efficiency, refining your distribution network can catapult your company ahead of competition. Whether it’s to keep up with growth, enter new markets, or streamline operations, re-engineering your distribution network is a substantial but necessary undertaking. Here’s a detailed guide to navigate this strategic evolution effectively…. Read More

Private equity firms often face the complexity of managing bolt-on acquisitions, where an abundance of distribution nodes and redundant operations lead to inflated costs and inefficiencies. In addressing these challenges, adopting a hub-and-spoke model can be a game-changer, providing a streamlined approach to distribution that aligns with the rigorous efficiency standards and swift service requirements… Read More

The dynamic landscape of global logistics and supply chain management presents businesses with relentless challenges and opportunities. In our previous discussion on the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the hub-and-spoke distribution model, we delved into its strategic advantages. However, the crucial question remains: Is this model the right fit for your business? This follow-up post offers… Read More

In the contemporary manufacturing and distribution landscape, the urgency to refine operational networks is paramount, with businesses striving to marry cost-efficiency with enhanced productivity. The hub-and-spoke distribution model emerges as a sophisticated solution, offering scalability, adaptability, and a centralized command—attributes that traditional, point-to-point strategies fall short of providing. This model, akin to the structure of… Read More

In the modern business landscape, where agility and efficiency are paramount, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a crucial enabler of capacity expansion. Companies across industries are harnessing the power of AI to analyze vast amounts of data, predict trends, automate processes, and make informed decisions that drive growth and optimize operational capacity. This piece… Read More

In the complex ecosystem of global commerce, strategic sourcing emerges as a pivotal lever for businesses aiming to fortify their supply chains, enhance capacity planning, and drive sustainable growth. Beyond mere procurement, strategic sourcing is a comprehensive approach that evaluates and optimizes the sourcing and procurement processes based on total cost of ownership and long-term… Read More

In the contemporary industrial landscape, automation emerges as a transformative force, redefining the paradigms of production capacity and operational efficiency. For middle market companies navigating the complexities of growth and competition, integrating automation into production lines is not just an option—it’s a strategic imperative. This article explores the multifaceted impact of automation, guides on identifying… Read More

For businesses experiencing rapid growth, expanding facility capacity becomes a critical challenge. This expansion is not merely about adding more space; it’s a strategic decision that impacts every aspect of operations, from manufacturing efficiency to product quality and delivery speed. Understanding when and how to expand, as well as exploring innovative approaches to maximize existing… Read More

In the quest for operational excellence, Lean principles stand out as a beacon for companies aiming to enhance their capacity without necessarily expanding their resources. Originating from the Toyota Production System, Lean methodology focuses on maximizing customer value while minimizing waste, thereby achieving more with less. For businesses striving to optimize their operational capacity, adopting… Read More

In the ever-evolving landscape of global commerce, the design of a company’s distribution network plays a crucial role in its overall efficiency and capacity to meet customer demands. Effective network design is not just about reducing transportation costs; it’s about creating a strategic advantage that can significantly impact service levels, operational costs, and the agility… Read More

In the intricate dance of supply and demand, Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning (SIOP) emerges as a pivotal strategy for businesses aiming to scale efficiently and sustain growth. This methodical approach aligns various facets of the organization, from sales and marketing to production and inventory management, ensuring that every department moves in harmony towards common… Read More

In today’s landscape, businesses across industries face the daunting challenge of scaling operations to meet escalating demand. The journey towards sustained growth is often hindered by a complex array of capacity constraints. This article, initiating a comprehensive series, aims to delve into the art and science of optimizing capacity across the value chain—a pivotal endeavor for… Read More

In the services sector, where intangible assets like data, reputation, and customer trust are paramount, the significance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. For investment bankers navigating the intricacies of selling services businesses, recognizing the importance of conducting comprehensive cybersecurity assessments before any transaction is crucial. This blog post explores the necessity of cybersecurity evaluations in… Read More

In the era of digital transformation, the food and beverage manufacturing sector is not immune to the escalating cyber threat landscape. For investment bankers guiding the sale of companies within this industry, the critical importance of conducting thorough cybersecurity assessments prior to any transaction cannot be overstated. This blog post delves into the necessity of… Read More

In the digital age, cybersecurity has emerged as a cornerstone of business integrity and operational continuity, especially for consumer products companies. For investment bankers navigating the complexities of selling these businesses, understanding the critical importance of conducting a thorough cybersecurity assessment before any transaction is paramount. This blog post explores why a comprehensive cybersecurity evaluation… Read More

In the dynamic arena of industrial manufacturing and distribution, the advent of Industry 4.0 has revolutionized how businesses operate, making cybersecurity not just a necessity but a cornerstone of business resilience and value. For mid-market investment bankers steering the sale of these businesses, the emphasis on conducting a cybersecurity assessment before a transaction cannot be… Read More

In today’s increasingly digital world, the importance of cybersecurity has never been more apparent. For investment bankers, this reality carries significant implications, particularly when it comes to facilitating the sale of an industrial manufacturing company. In this blog post, we’ll explore why conducting a thorough cybersecurity assessment before selling such a company is not just… Read More

When it comes to evaluating the operations and technology of a business services organization, there are multiple factors to consider during an operational and IT due diligence. During a diligence, we assess a technician-based business service company through three primary lenses across their operations and technology: In a business services company, labor allows for revenue… Read More

Successfully scaling a business continues to be one of the top hurdles facing small-to-mid sized companies and automation as a function of technology strategy is an important tool in unlocking that growth. Businesses in nearly every industry can benefit from automating time consuming and repetitive tasks to save time and cut costs. Despite increasing popularity,… Read More

DOWNLOAD THIS INSIGHT Assessing Information Technology (IT) risks, capabilities, and maturity through IT Due Diligence ahead of an investment is critical to understanding whether a target’s technology infrastructure can support your investment thesis. In an increasingly dynamic technology landscape, determining whether IT is creating, inhibiting, or destroying value is more important than ever before. In… Read More

After a frenzied 2021 in private equity M&A, 2022 saw a reset in the dealmaking environment. As we move into 2023, lingering uncertainty in the market, driven by continued geopolitical, supply chain, workforce, and inflation concerns, means we may see private equity funds pursuing bolt-ons to deploy capital – making integration planning a necessity. According… Read More

Best-in-class companies are focused on analyzing their current inventory positions and looking for opportunities to reduce inventory and improve cash flow. Rising interest rates and fears of an impending economic slowdown are prioritizing this effort. Supply Chain Optimization leaders are adjusting to a “new normal” looking to reduce inventories after increasing inventory positions during Covid… Read More

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT With the growing global focus on sustainability, Private Equity investors are beginning to take a closer look at Environmental, Social, & Governance (ESG) aspects of new target investments. In Q3 2022, TriVista asked ~40 respondents from 25 Private Equity firms about their approach to ESG Due Diligence. NEARLY ALL PE FIRMS… Read More

As organizations continue to face pressures from record labor shortages, inflation, and supply chain challenges, investments in digital transformation efforts have become a vital driver of sustained profits. Outdated systems and processes may hinder a company’s ability to quickly adapt in today’s marketplace. Whether through business process reengineering, automation, strategic software updates, or data analysis,… Read More

High inflation rates in 2022 — and the quickly rising interest rates to combat them — have continued to be a challenge for private equity firms as they look to deploy new capital and add value to their existing portfolio companies. After a record-setting 18 months in M&A activity, private equity investors are turning inward… Read More

By: Joseph Abbud and Steven Imholt Last month, the Mexican government made an agreement with business groups to raise the minimum wage by 22%, which went into effect on January 1, 2022. Understandably, the news has left many business leaders wondering whether the increase—and corresponding potential for a higher fixed cost of labor—would negatively impact… Read More

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT According to most studies, between 70-90% of acquisitions fail, but our latest research on mid-market M&A suggests otherwise. Through the survey, we found that mergers rarely fail, but often fail to live up to their potential. The following findings and explore how to maximize value capture. Demographics The survey polled c-level… Read More

Many signs point to continued positive momentum for manufacturing and distribution industries in 2022. Despite labor shortages and distribution woes, businesses are starting to define what a new normal might look like. While supply chain challenges threaten this progress, forward-thinking leadership teams are creating opportunities for growth by working one step ahead. Integration is becoming… Read More

Supply chain has never been more top of mind than it is today. The reverberations from the ongoing supply shocks in the wake of COVID-19 have been felt by nearly everyone — from consumers struggling to purchase automobiles, to corporate executives across industries scrambling to account for the soaring price of goods and services in… Read More

DOWNLOAD FULL INSIGHT SIOP – also known as Sales, Inventory and Operations Planning – is the process and routine used to define future demand and most optimally balance it with supply in a consistent cadence of consensus-based review and agreement. It’s the heartbeat of every manufacturer, distributor and consumer products company.  Getting it right can… Read More

While the global coronavirus pandemic has tested the boundaries of what due diligence looks like, it remains essential. Despite challenges related to the pandemic, TriVista continues to offer a flexible array of diligence offerings, ranging from full site visits to remote video assessments.  Our global team is facilitating site visits in geographies that are not… Read More

At the start of the year, it would have been impossible to predict how the coronavirus pandemic would impact business. Shutdowns and lockdowns began in China in late 2019, and ever since, there have been a number of variables at play that continue to affect all points on the supply chain—from shifting levels of demand,… Read More

Business leaders need COVID-19 action plans around 4 key priorities. First and foremost, we hope that you and yours are healthy and safe. These are unprecedented and uncertain times. Even though we’re socially distancing, our goal is to offer candid counsel–the type of advice we’d share one-on-one. We hope you will find it valuable and… Read More

As a result of the business disruption caused by COVID-19, executives are quickly evaluating fixed and variable overhead, while looking for areas to trim expenses. Cutting IT spend will be an obvious focus area for many companies, but careful consideration is needed to avoid unintended consequences. As you consider reducing IT spend across your portfolio,… Read More

The continued spread of COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus, has been both swift and extensive in impact. For all businesses, this pandemic must be viewed as a health crisis first and foremost, and our top priority must be to care for the well-being of employees and customers, assist those afflicted, and mitigate the speed of… Read More

A factory exists for one reason: to produce high-quality products as efficiently as possible. Any activity that doesn’t add value to a product is waste, which costs money and increases product lead times. Private Equity investors know waste elimination is one of the most effective ways to increase profitability and reduce risk in any business…. Read More

Operations Due Diligence is increasingly a key component of the private equity diligence playbook.  A thorough assessment of a target’s supply chain, operations and IT infrastructure can provide investors with critical information that informs investment decisions and influences post close strategies. In today’s competitive market for deals, it’s more important than ever that investors know… Read More

Many of our private equity clients with portfolio companies, factories or suppliers in Mexico have asked for our point of view on the potential U.S.-Mexico border closing. Based on TriVista’s experience, and recent discussions with several Maquiladoras (U.S. companies based in Mexico), we have outlined our perspective on several scenarios and outcomes. Background: The current… Read More

Sell side operational due diligence can help companies maximize enterprise value at sale. A critical component of the process is working with the management team to ensure alignment with go-forward strategy such that during the sale process there is a comprehensive operational plan and solid evidence that action is being taken to implement the plan…. Read More

You’re only getting half the picture when simply focusing on the financials When most investment professionals think about sell side due diligence, it’s typically to do with quality of earnings, or Q of E. But a sell side Quality of Operations® assessment is every bit as important to mid-market investors that want to realize the… Read More

While most private equity firms perform buy side operational due diligence, there is a strong case that many mid-market investors can increase enterprise value by conducting sell side operational due diligence. Sell side operational due diligence is catching on, and for good reason. The process can: Identify key risks that may come to light in the buy side due… Read More

As Private Equity (PE) firms continue to evaluate add-on acquisitions, executing a strong roadmap and avoiding any pitfalls should be top of mind. In this article, we provide some guidelines on achieving successful outcomes with your next bolt-on. Continued market competitiveness for good deals has propelled PE firms to use several levers to drive increased… Read More

When it comes to investments in Food & Beverage companies, in addition to Quality of Operations® Due Diligence analysis private equity firms should diligence critical elements of Food Safety Programs (Food Safety, Regulatory Compliance & Quality) at the target company.  Determining early on whether or not a target company is compliant with Food & Drug Administration  (FDA) … Read More

In this Expert Insight, we discuss the positive impact improved Sales, Inventory & Operations Planning (SIOP) processes can have on a business, and how SIOP provides a competitive advantage.  Specifically, the real business value of SIOP, common symptoms of a defective planning process, and critical success factors needed for SIOP to succeed.  Whether you’re a… Read More

Bottlenecks—the steps in a process that govern the speed of the entire operation—are a common headache in the manufacturing world.  Unlike the bottlenecks we experience in our daily lives, such as a broken-down car on the freeway making us late for work, production bottlenecks are not simple annoyances or inconveniences.  On the contrary, in a… Read More

Food safety continues to be top of mind during due diligence for Private Equity investors. Keeping up with changing industry regulations can be difficult. In this material, learn about the Seven FSMA Rules, what you can do to mitigate your risks, and the implications of noncompliance. Learn why Private Equity should pay attention to FDA’s… Read More

IN THIS POST, WE EXPLORE: What are the steps towards maximizing shareholder value in a private equity transaction? What should a private equity investor be doing 1st, 2nd, 3rdduring their investment lifecycle? How to focus efforts in a targeted approach to expand EBITDA, reduce working capital, and significantly improve sales growth trajectories. DOES THIS SITUATION… Read More

ENTERPRISE EXCELLENCE – MORE THAN JUST A BUZZ WORD , A CONCEPT THAT CAN TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS In this Expert Insight, TriVista Managing Director Stephen Smith answers three questions about Enterprise Excellence – describing what it really means, the value it provides, and the steps you can take toward incorporating it throughout your organization. We hear the term Enterprise… Read More

In this Q&A session, TriVista shares how leadership teams can foster a culture of lean transformation and achieve significant operational improvement and excellence by addressing these four critical questions: How can leadership convince the organization that lean and inherent business realities are not at odds? What are the most important concepts leaders must support for… Read More

In this Q&A session, Brenda describes how investors and leadership teams can strengthen the new product development process and pipeline by addressing these 6 critical questions: How can investment in new product development be measured by private equity firms? What kinds of resources should PE firms provide to help their portfolio companies innovate? Are there… Read More

How to keep products moving and control costs In this post, we explore: How the post-recession economy has shifted the logistics landscape, and what it means for companies impacted by the shipping industry Two key components logistics managers must address to substantially cut transportation costs Commonly overlooked process improvements – what companies know but aren’t… Read More