Why I Joined Optima Mergers & Acquisitions
Joining Optima Mergers & Acquisitions was a pivotal moment in my career. As Market Director, I saw an incredible opportunity to bring my experience in exit planning and business acceleration to the lower middle market. With a background spanning wealth management, entrepreneurial coaching, energy services, and athletic training, my passion lies in helping business owners refine leadership, optimize sales, and enhance profitability—positioning their companies for a successful transition. The chance to work alongside a team that shares my commitment to integrity, excellence, and client success made Optima the perfect fit.
Navigating the Lower Middle Market Landscape
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the lower middle market (LMM) have long been underserved, despite representing a vital segment of the U.S. economy. With approximately 350,000 businesses generating between $5 million and $100 million in annual revenue, the LMM is a hub of opportunity—especially as many business owners approach retirement. Yet, these businesses often struggle to access the advisory services they need, as traditional business brokers find the deals too complex, and larger investment banks focus on bigger transactions.
That’s where Optima Mergers & Acquisitions comes in. Specializing in sell-side advisory services for LMM businesses, Optima is filling a critical gap in the market. By providing tailored expertise and a deep understanding of transactional strategies, Optima is helping business owners achieve optimal outcomes—whether they’re looking to exit, expand, or reposition their companies for future growth.
The “Silver Tsunami” and Market Potential
One of the biggest catalysts for M&A activity in the LMM is the impending retirement wave, often referred to as the “silver tsunami.” With more than half of small to medium-sized business owners aged 55 or older, the market is poised for a significant increase in ownership transitions over the next decade. This presents a remarkable opportunity for strategic transactions, whether through full business sales, partnerships, or growth investments.
Take Arkansas, for example, a promising frontier for Optima’s expansion. The state is home to an estimated 3,500 middle-market businesses spanning manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and professional services. As these businesses seek guidance in preparing for ownership transitions, the need for expert advisory services has never been greater.
A Strategic and Experienced Team
At the helm of Optima’s efforts is a team of seasoned professionals with decades of experience across industries. Lane Carrick, a respected entrepreneur and M&A advisor, brings invaluable insight into business ownership and strategic transactions. Andrew Swartz, CEO of SBI Investments, enhances Optima’s capabilities with his deep expertise in private equity, real estate, and technology investments.
Success Stories and Growth Initiatives
Since its official launch, Optima has already made significant strides, including securing its first listing—a commercial landscaping company in Texas with $27 million in revenue and $4 million in annual profits. The listing quickly attracted interest from private equity firms and family offices, underscoring Optima’s ability to deliver results in competitive markets.
Looking ahead, Optima is actively raising $1.2 million to fuel further expansion and strengthen its marketing initiatives. With strong investor confidence and a proven business model, the firm is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the LMM space.
Partnering for the Future
Optima Mergers & Acquisitions isn’t just about facilitating transactions—it’s about empowering business owners with the knowledge, strategy, and support they need to make informed decisions. Whether you’re looking to sell, expand, or enhance your business’s value, Optima’s team is ready to help you navigate the journey with confidence.
To learn more about how Optima can support your business goals, visit www.theoptimateam.com. Let’s redefine success together.
