Buyers and 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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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.
Screen For Owner Dependency And Clean Books
- Avoid highly owner-dependent businesses where the owner is the company and transferability is low.
- Require clean, up-to-date books and regular management accounts before spending on diligence.
Sell Yourself With Honest Outreach
- Be honest and lead with credibility in outreach: explain your operational background and your intent to preserve the business.
- Emphasize you are a private buyer who won't dismantle the local ecosystem.