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Automotive

IMAP helps automotive clients navigate M&A opportunities in a changing industry.

EXPERTS IN AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY M&A

The radically and rapidly changing Automotive industry offers the perfect landscape for lucrative M&A opportunities, for those with the expertise to take advantage of its potential.

Seismic shifts such as new environmental requirements, the emergence of e-mobility and autonomous driving, and mobility-as-a-service business models make for both a complex and fruitful landscape for sales, growth, and investment.

At IMAP, we have the industry-specific experience and carefully cultivated contacts to stay ahead of the wave of new developments. And the practical know-how to guide our clients through challenges, for outstanding strategic and financial results.

We advise clients operating in:

Auto and Parts Wholesalers & Retailers

Auto Engineering Services

Auto Manufacturers

Auto Parts & Components

Auto Technology & Telematics

Industrial M&A Market Trends and Insights

2024 recorded 1,750 deals, marking a decline from 2,592 transactions in 2023 due to economic uncertainty.

The median transaction value in 2024 was €17M, aligning with the trend of mid-market acquisitions.

85% of completed transactions involved majority stake acquisitions, while 15% were minority deals, asset purchases, or spinoffs.

Geographical Market Trends

North America and Europe dominated M&A activity, contributing to 83% of total deal volume between 2019 and 2024.

The US (45%) led transaction volumes, followed by the UK (9%), China (4%), France (4%), and Germany (4%).

Cross-border transactions accounted for 30% of total activity, while 70% remained domestic.

Buyer Type and Investment Trends

Strategic buyers dominated the space, accounting for 80% of all transactions.

Financial buyers (20%) have maintained a steady presence, focusing on larger assets with an average deal size of €85M, compared to €17M for strategic buyers.

Private Equity (PE) activity remains robust, with 52% of European PE fundraising coming from the UK & Ireland in FY23.

Latest trends:

Industrial M&A Market Trends and Insights

The industrial sector remains a cornerstone of global M&A activity, recording over:

18,000 completed transactions between 2019 - 2024

combined reported value exceeding

€580 billion.

Key Investment Trends

Industrial M&A continues to evolve amid shifting economic conditions, geopolitical uncertainty, and rapid technological change. Although deal volumes have fluctuated, investor appetite, particularly within the mid-market, remains strong.

Impact of Macroeconomic Conditions

Higher interest rates and inflationary pressures contributed to a decline in total deal value, from:

€69B in 2023 to €57B in 2024.

Geopolitical instability has introduced caution among investors, leading to slower deal flow compared to previous years.

Shift Toward Mid-Market Transactions

Mid-sized transactions now dominate industrial M&A, reflecting investor focus on strategic growth opportunities and operational synergies that deliver faster value creation.