In this episode, the M&A Launchpad Podcast hosts, Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew, share the unfiltered story behind their acquisition of H&M Plating, an industrial chrome plating company with multiple locations and a large operational footprint. They walk through how the deal was sourced off-market, how the capital stack evolved after a significant appraisal gap, and what it took to operate the business post-close. This is a candid look at the realities of buying and running a heavy manufacturing business—and the lessons they learned the hard way.

Key Topics Discussed:

· Sourcing an off-market manufacturing acquisition

· Structuring a $20M deal when valuations change

· AR lending, seller notes, and earnouts

· Reps & warranties in equipment-heavy businesses

· Navigating the post-acquisition J-curve

· ERP implementation, culture change, and leadership turnover

M&A Launchpad Conference

Join us at the M&A Launchpad Conference happening in May in Houston. This one-day, high-impact event is designed for acquisition entrepreneurs serious about sourcing, structuring, and closing deals. Use code LAUNCH for $200 off.

Learn more at: https://www.malaunchpad.com

Sponsor

Sponsored by O’Connell Advisory Group – Work with a trusted Quality of Earnings and Financial Diligence partner who focuses solely on business acquisitions.

Schedule a discovery call with Patrick of O'Connell Advisory Group—your dynamic Quality of Earnings partner.

Visit: www.oconnelladvisorygroup.com.

About Equity Launchpad

Equity Launchpad helps acquisition entrepreneurs move from interest to ownership through education, content, community, and real-world deal experience. Through conferences, podcasts, and insights from active buyers, Equity Launchpad supports those serious about buying and operating businesses.

Learn more at: https://www.equity-launchpad.com

Reach out to Casey and Feras at info@equity-launchpad.com

About The M&A Launchpad: The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions. The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community. Connect with M&A Launchpad: 🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7 🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586 🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/