Re-globalization and a Supply Chain Revolution

The Glowing M&A Outlook for Supply Chain Automation and Technology

In 2024, 200 billion parcels were shipped worldwide, everything from contracts to contact lenses. Pitney Bowes estimates that the number of parcels shipped in the U.S. alone will rise from 22 billion to as many as 35 billion by 2029.

Inside most of these parcels are products whose raw materials and components had to be sourced, then assembled in a factory, shipped by ocean, air, or rail freight, put on a truck, delivered to warehouses and distribution centers, where they will be picked, packed, and driven to your doorstep.

The global manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, and fulfillment  sectors have experienced explosive growth in recent years, driven by several key factors. The rise of e-commerce, increased consumer expectations for rapid delivery, and the expansion (with accompanying disruption) of global trade have all placed unprecedented pressure on supply chains to become more efficient, resilient, and technologically advanced.

We’re facing an unprecedented period of upheaval and realignment in where, how, why, and when products are made, shipped, and bought.  The world, barring an unforeseen black swan event like COVID-19, will continue to make, ship, buy, and return more products than ever before.  This bodes well for M&A in manufacturing and supply chain in general and for supply chain and manufacturing automation and technology in particular.   

Three significant realities stand out for a company looking to sell their business and for buyers looking to acquire them.

1. Re-globalization – Following the massive wave of globalization over the last 30 years (the signature book of the era being Tom Friedman’s “The World is Flat”) we are experiencing re-globalization.  Companies from Indiana to India are reassessing where to source, make, ship, and sell their products.

2. Perma-disruption – The new reality in Supply Chain is that disruption has become the norm, with short periods of stability in between.  Just in the last year the Panama Canal was shut due to lack of water; shipping lanes in the Persian Gulf were shut due to missiles; the Russian invasion of Ukraine; and a new U.S. Administration bent on disrupting global commerce through tariffs, sanctions and political realignment.

3. Manufacturing and supply chain operations MUST turn to technology and automation for “optionality” (having a permanent and equal set of supply chain and logistics options), cost efficiency, and the realities of a tech driven, global economy 

The COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and economic disruptions have further underscored the importance of strong supply chain management, backed by cutting edge technologies and automation.  

Companies are now prioritizing supply chain agility and resilience over cost-cutting measures that previously dominated strategy discussions. This shift has led to massive investments in supply chain automation, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced logistics solutions.

As a result, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in the supply chain technology and automation space has surged, with both strategic buyers and financial investors recognizing the immense potential in this sector. Private equity (PE) firms, large corporations, and family offices are aggressively seeking acquisitions to gain a competitive edge in supply chain optimization, automation, and data-driven decision-making.

Market Uncertainty and the Demand for New Supply Chain Solutions

Despite strong growth, the manufacturing and supply chain industries are currently navigating a period of significant uncertainty and disruption. Several challenges are shaping the future of the industry and driving the need for new technologies and strategies:

• Geopolitical Instability: Trade wars, sanctions, and supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical conflicts have made supply chain diversification a top priority.

• Labor Shortages: The ongoing workforce shortage in logistics and manufacturing has accelerated the demand for automation and AI-driven solutions.

• Rising Costs: Inflation, high energy prices, and increased transportation costs are forcing companies to seek efficiencies through automation and smart supply chain technologies.

• ESG and Sustainability Regulations: Companies are under pressure to build greener supply chains, reduce emissions, and implement sustainable logistics practices.

• Shifts in Consumer Demand: The rise of unified retailing and changing consumer expectations require businesses to be more agile and responsive.

These factors are not only fueling demand for innovative supply chain and manufacturing solutions but also making M&A a strategic necessity for companies looking to stay ahead of the competition.

The M&A Outlook for Manufacturing and Supply Chain Technology Companies

With the critical role that supply chain and manufacturing automation now play in global commerce, the M&A market for companies in this space is thriving. Private equity firms, multinational corporations, and family offices are actively seeking to invest in high-growth, high-margin businesses that offer innovative technologies, scalability, and strong customer relationships.

What Buyers Are Looking For:

1. Automation and AI Integration: Companies that offer AI-driven supply chain optimization, robotics, and warehouse automation are highly attractive to buyers.

2. Scalability and Recurring Revenue Models: Businesses with scalable SaaS-based or subscription revenue models are valued more highly than traditional hardware providers.

3. Proven Track Record and Market Traction: Buyers seek companies with a strong client base, recurring revenues, and a clear competitive advantage.

4. Proprietary Technology and Intellectual Property: Firms with unique technology or patents in supply chain visibility, predictive analytics, and automation have increased valuation potential.

5. End-to-End Supply Chain Solutions: Companies that provide holistic solutions, including transportation management, warehouse management, and real-time tracking, are in high demand.

6. Resilient and Diverse Supply Chains: Businesses that help companies de-risk supply chain dependencies, whether through reshoring, nearshoring, or digital twin modeling, are particularly attractive.

Current Trends in M&A Deal Flow:

• Increased PE and VC Investment: Private equity firms are aggressively acquiring mid-sized automation and logistics tech companies to consolidate and build market leaders.

• Strategic Acquisitions by Corporations: Large players in retail, e-commerce, and logistics are acquiring technology providers to vertically integrate and improve their supply chain resilience.

• Cross-Border M&A Activity: Global firms are looking to acquire supply chain technology companies in emerging markets to strengthen their international operations.

• AI and Predictive Analytics Dominance: Companies leveraging AI for demand forecasting, warehouse automation, and route optimization are commanding premium valuations.

• Sustainability-Focused Deals: Firms that provide supply chain sustainability solutions, such as carbon footprint tracking and green logistics, are seeing heightened interest from impact investors.

  
  

How Founders, CEOs, and Owners Should Prepare for M&A

For founders and executives of supply chain and manufacturing automation technology companies considering a sale—whether a minority stake, majority stake, or full exit—preparation is critical. Here’s what they should focus on:

1. Strengthen Financial Performance: Clean, well-organized financials with clear revenue growth, profitability, and margin trends will attract more buyers.

2. Build Recurring Revenue Models: Subscription-based or long-term contract revenue streams will increase valuation multiples.

3. Showcase Scalable Technology: Demonstrating a company’s ability to scale with minimal capital investment will appeal to investors.

4. Develop a Clear Growth Strategy: Buyers want to see a roadmap for market expansion, customer acquisition, and new product development.

5. Optimize Operations: Streamlining operations and reducing reliance on manual processes will enhance valuation.

6. Secure Strong Customer Relationships: Retention rates, customer lifetime value, and diversified client portfolios will make a company more attractive.

7. Prepare for Due Diligence: Having comprehensive legal, financial, and operational documentation readily available will expedite the M&A process.

   
   

The M&A landscape for manufacturing and supply chain automation technology companies is poised for continued growth, driven by the increasing complexity of global trade, labor shortages, and the need for technological innovation. Strategic buyers and investors are actively seeking solutions that enhance supply chain efficiency, resilience, and sustainability.