HoldCo Builders How I Bought 5 Businesses After Failing My First Acquisition
Dec 28, 2025
Steve Lawrence, founder of Uncomplicated Group and expert in injection molding, shares his journey from corporate life to acquiring five businesses. He reveals the harsh realities of his first failed deal, emphasizing the emotional and financial toll. The conversation dives into essential lessons on seller readiness, the importance of a strong 'why' in acquisitions, and how operational systems like EOS transformed his factories. Steve candidly discusses the challenges and surprises of small business ownership while offering practical advice for aspiring acquirers.
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Measured Exit Turned Mess
- Steve quit his corporate job expecting a near-term acquisition to close, then watched that deal collapse over months.
- He burned cash on diligence and rebuilt his approach rather than returning to corporate life.
From Waiting To Hunting For Deals
- After the failed deal, Steve cold-sourced targets and found his first completed acquisition via a classified listing.
- He shifted from passive searching to deliberate outreach in injection molding.
Test Your Why Before You Buy
- Ask yourself why you want to acquire a business and ensure the why is strong enough to sustain inevitable setbacks.
- If your why is weak or you're chasing passive income, consider not pursuing acquisitions.