FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Grouped by topic, with a link through to more detail where it exists.
Section 01
Selling your practice
How do I start a conversation about selling my practice?
Send a confidential enquiry through our contact page with a short outline of your practice. We reply personally and there is no obligation at any stage.
Will my staff or clients find out I am talking to you?
Not from us. We do not contact staff, clients or advisers without your agreement, and any communication is planned together with you.
Do I need to decide on a timeline before speaking to you?
No. Some owners have a firm date in mind, others are exploring options. Either is a reasonable starting point for a first conversation.
What type of practice are you looking for?
Established UK accounting and tax practices with recurring compliance work and a stable client base. We are open to discussing practices outside this description too.
Can I sell only part of my practice?
Structures vary case by case, including phased handovers and partial transitions. This is something to discuss directly rather than assume in advance.
Section 02
Valuation
How is an accounting practice typically valued?
Valuations for accounting practices commonly reference recurring fee income, client retention and the mix of compliance versus advisory work, alongside the specifics of the practice itself.
Will you give me a valuation before I share detailed information?
We can discuss an indicative range early on, but any considered figure depends on reviewing relevant information about the practice.
Does staff structure affect valuation?
Yes. The strength and stability of the team, and whether managers are expected to remain, are both relevant considerations.
Is a valuation from Vantrex the same as an independent valuation?
No. Our figures reflect what we would consider proposing. Owners are encouraged to take independent advice before agreeing terms.
Section 03
Succession
What succession options exist besides selling to a trade buyer?
Options include an internal handover to existing staff, a phased sale that keeps you involved for a period, or a full sale with an agreed handover to a new owner.
How long does a typical handover take?
Handover periods are agreed case by case, from a short introduction to a longer consultancy arrangement, depending on what suits you and the practice.
What happens to my team during succession?
Our starting intention is that staff continue with the practice, and any concerns are discussed with you openly before completion.
Can I stay involved after a sale?
In many structures, yes, for an agreed period. This is set out in the terms discussed before completion.
Section 04
Our acquisition process
What are the stages of your acquisition process?
Broadly: an initial conversation, an indicative outline of terms, proportionate diligence, and completion with an agreed handover.
How long does the process usually take?
It depends on the practice and the complexity of the terms, but owners should expect the process to run over months rather than weeks.
Is diligence disruptive to my practice?
We aim to keep diligence proportionate and run to an agreed timetable so day-to-day work continues without interruption.
Can I withdraw from the process at any point?
Yes. There is no obligation at any stage, and information you have shared remains confidential regardless of the outcome.
Section 05
Working with brokers
Do you work with brokers and intermediaries?
Yes. We work with brokers and intermediaries acting for owners of established UK accounting practices.
What information helps a first review of an introduction?
Broad location and size, the service mix, team numbers, and the owner's preferred timing and appetite for a handover period.
How quickly do you respond to introductions?
We aim to give an initial view promptly so a broker is not left holding an open conversation with a client for an extended period.
Will you deal directly with the owner once introduced?
Yes, subject to the broker's agreed involvement. We are clear about who is party to which conversation.
Section 06
Orion Accounting
What is Orion Accounting?
Orion is the accounting firm brand under which Vantrex intends to deliver client work once practices join the group. Real, qualified accountants carry out and review the work.
Will an acquired practice be renamed Orion immediately?
Any change to client-facing identity is discussed and agreed with the outgoing owner as part of the transition, not imposed unilaterally.
What services does Orion cover?
Bookkeeping, annual accounts, payroll, tax compliance support and management accounts, delivered by qualified people.
Is Orion open to new clients directly, outside of an acquisition?
Yes. Orion works with UK businesses independently of the practice acquisition side of Vantrex.
Section 07
Investors
Is Vantrex raising investment?
Vantrex is at an early stage and building relationships with potential investment partners as it prepares for its first acquisition.
What kind of investors do you engage with?
We are open to conversations with a range of potential partners, including angel investors, family offices and private investment firms.
What track record can you show investors?
None yet. Vantrex has not completed an acquisition. We are direct about this with anyone considering an involvement.
Can I discuss debt or equity investment at this stage?
Yes, in outline. Any detailed discussion depends on where the venture and a given acquisition opportunity stand at the time.
Section 08
About Vantrex
What is Vantrex Group?
Vantrex Group is a UK-focused venture that acquires established accounting practices and implements Orion, its operating infrastructure, to grow their capacity, margin and enterprise value.
Is Vantrex a registered company?
Vantrex is an early-stage venture preparing for its first acquisition. We do not describe ourselves as an established corporate group.
Who founded Vantrex?
Vantrex was founded by Vidun Satharasinghe and Tharindu Samarakkody, who are its co-founders.
How can I contact Vantrex?
Email info@vantrexgroup.co.uk or send an enquiry through our contact page. Enquiries are read personally.