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Facilisgroup Hosts Sellers Workshop, Empowering Promo Distributors to Navigate Mergers and Acquisitions 

October 14th, 2024

Facilisgroup, a leading software-as-a-service company and partnering community within the promotional products industry, hosted its exclusive Sellers Workshop on September 24, at its headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. This event brought together a select group of promo distributors, industry experts, potential buyers, and legal professionals to guide attendees through the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions. 

The workshop began with a complimentary happy hour and dinner on the evening of September 23, creating a casual atmosphere for attendees to network and connect ahead of the main event. This setting offered the perfect opportunity for distributors to start building relationships and strategizing with their peers and industry leaders. 

The following day, the workshop kicked off with educational panel discussions, small breakout groups, one-on-one meetings, and expert advice tailored to the needs of their Distributor Partners. Each session was designed to provide actionable insights for promo distributors exploring their future options—whether they are ready to sell their business or simply want to learn more about the process. 

The event featured a panel of industry leaders, each bringing unique perspectives from different sectors of the promotional products industry. The panelists offered invaluable advice, sharing their expertise and providing attendees with key insights on navigating the complexities of mergers and acquisitions, all enriched by their diverse experiences. Featured speakers included: 

  • Gayle Piraino, Vice President of Beverage Strategy at Stran Promotional Solutions 
  • Stephen McFadden, Director of Vision & New Business at The Specialty Company 
  • Sarah Johnston, Director of Brandito Midwest 
  • Geoffrey Patack, Partner at Broadway Marketing Ltd. 
  • Stacy Stahl, Founder of Sweeter Cards 

Facilisgroup’s Senior Vice President of Partner Success, Dave Rehg, highlighted the critical elements needed for a successful business transition. “Navigating the sale of a promo business requires more than just market knowledge—it demands clear goals, a deep understanding of the business’s value, and meticulous financial preparation,” Rehg noted. “Recognizing that every business and exit plan is unique, we created the Sellers Workshop to support distributors throughout the process, providing the insights and tools needed to make informed decisions.” 

Following a day filled with valuable learning opportunities, attendees were invited to unwind over dinner and drinks, continuing their conversations and fostering connections that will prove essential for their businesses moving forward. 

Sam Riden, Chief Operating Officer of The Specialty Company and Facilisgroup Distributor Partner, shared his perspective on the event. “Facilisgroup created a safe and welcoming environment for both buyers and sellers, ensuring everyone was well-prepared for meaningful discussions. For buyers like TSC, and for future sellers, this type of guidance is crucial in navigating the complexities of acquisition. Their resources were essential, offering the insights needed to approach the acquisition process with confidence.” 

Facilisgroup’s Sellers Workshop offered an invaluable experience for promo distributors considering mergers and acquisitions, equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and connections to plan their next big move with confidence.