Securing a Clean Exit: The Role of Insurance in Manufacturing Company Sales with Patrick Stroth

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan talks with Patrick Stroth, the national practice leader for mergers and acquisitions at Liberty Company Insurance Brokers. Patrick, based in the bustling heart of Silicon Valley, shares his vast knowledge and expertise in securing clean exits for owners and founders of lower-middle-market companies who are looking to sell their businesses.

Patrick shares his career journey, explaining how his passion for mergers and acquisitions grew from his background as a lifelong insurance professional. He discusses why mergers and acquisitions are both exhilarating for the business world and profoundly life-changing for business owners, often marking the pinnacle of their professional careers. Patrick emphasizes that a solid and efficient exit strategy can facilitate smoother transitions, quicker sales, and happier outcomes for sellers.

One of the foremost topics discussed revolves around "Representations and Warranties" and their critical role in selling manufacturing businesses. Patrick enlightens listeners on how these disclosures are prepared by sellers and verified by buyers during the due diligence process. He elucidates the potential risks when breaches in these reps and warranties occur, explaining how the traditional indemnification clauses can be a source of stress and possible financial clawbacks for sellers.

In an innovative turn, Patrick introduces an emerging solution tailored for the lower middle-market segment: Transaction Liability Private Enterprise (TLPE) insurance. This insurance product provides the necessary protection for deals between $1 million and $30 million. He breaks down how this insurance policy allows sellers to cover any possible breaches, thus alleviating buyers' concerns and negating the need for large escrow holds.

Patrick shares real-world examples, like a metals fabrication company that faced a post-transaction issue with a key supplier renegotiating terms due to an oversight in the original contract. Such scenarios, which might have posed significant financial risks to the sellers, were mitigated through the protection offered by the TLPE policy, proving its efficacy and value.

In actionable takeaways for listeners considering selling their manufacturing business, Patrick advises securing an attorney specializing in mergers and acquisitions to effectively navigate the complex waters of business transitions. He highlights that specialized M&A attorneys add invaluable expertise, ensure smoother transactions, and reduce stress.

For those interested in exploring the benefits of TLPE further or seeking personalized advice, Patrick offers his contact information and encourages reaching out via email or LinkedIn.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding Representations and Warranties: Grasp the significance of reps and warranties in the sale process and the risks associated with potential breaches.

2. Transaction Liability Private Enterprise (TLPE) Insurance: Consider TLPE insurance for deals between $1 million and $30 million to safeguard against financial risks from reps and warranty breaches.

3. Specialized Legal Advice: Engage an attorney specializing in mergers and acquisitions to ensure a smoother and more secure transaction.

4. Real-life Applications: Learn from examples of how TLPE insurance provided crucial coverage and peace of mind to both buyers and sellers.

Actionable Strategies:

- Start Early: Begin planning your exit strategy well before you intend to sell your business to ensure all disclosures and financial statements are in order.

- Consider TLPE Insurance: Evaluate if TLPE insurance is a good fit for your transaction to reduce escrow holds and ensure a cleaner exit.

- Hire Specialists: Engage professionals specializing in M&A to help navigate and mitigate potential risks effectively.

Contact Information:

- Patrick Stroth on LinkedIn: [Patrick Stroth](https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickstroth)

- Email: pstroth@libertycompany.com