Livingstone Partners
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)Livingstone Partners is a Chicago-based investment banking firm founded in 2007 that specializes in middle-market mergers and acquisitions and debt advisory services. With a team of 110 professionals, the firm has established itself as a trusted advisor for companies in the logistics and supply chain sector, providing comprehensive financial advisory services to facilitate growth, transitions, and strategic transformations. The company's expertise spans sell-side and buy-side M&A transactions, as well as sophisticated debt structuring solutions. What sets Livingstone Partners apart is their deep understanding of the logistics and 3PL industry dynamics, combined with their ability to structure complex transactions that maximize value for all stakeholders. Their proven track record includes successfully guiding numerous logistics companies through strategic exits, facilitating platform acquisitions for growth-oriented buyers, and securing optimal financing solutions through their extensive network of private debt providers. The firm's aligned incentive structure ensures that client success remains the primary focus throughout every engagement.
Perfect For
Middle-market 3PL companies considering strategic exits or succession planningPrivate equity firms and strategic acquirers seeking logistics platform investments or add-on acquisitionsGrowing logistics companies requiring debt financing for expansion, acquisitions, or refinancingSupply chain technology companies and freight brokers exploring M&A opportunities
Key Strengths
Deep specialized expertise in logistics and supply chain industry dynamicsProven track record with middle-market transactions and aligned incentive structureComprehensive service offering covering both M&A and debt advisory capabilitiesExtensive network of logistics industry buyers, sellers, and capital providersStrong understanding of industry-specific valuation metrics and operational complexities15+ years of experience building relationships within the logistics ecosystem
Considerations
Services focused on middle-market transactions may not suit very small or large logistics companiesInvestment banking fees and transaction costs may be significant for smaller dealsAdvisory process timelines can be lengthy depending on market conditions and transaction complexity
About Livingstone Partners
Livingstone Partners stands as a premier investment banking firm serving the middle-market logistics and supply chain industry since 2007. Based in Chicago with a team of 110 experienced professionals, the firm has carved out a specialized niche in providing sophisticated financial advisory services to 3PL companies, logistics operators, and supply chain technology providers navigating complex growth strategies, ownership transitions, and capital optimization initiatives.
Core Advisory Services
The firm's M&A sell-side practice focuses on helping logistics company shareholders maximize value through strategic exits. Their process involves comprehensive market analysis, identifying optimal buyer pools, and executing bespoke transaction strategies that leverage competitive dynamics to drive premium valuations. The team's deep industry knowledge enables them to articulate value propositions effectively to both strategic acquirers and financial sponsors active in the logistics space.
On the buy-side, Livingstone Partners assists growth-oriented logistics companies and private equity firms in identifying and executing strategic acquisitions. Their services include target identification, financial analysis, due diligence support, and transaction execution for both platform acquisitions and add-on investments that drive portfolio company growth and market expansion.
The firm's debt advisory practice provides critical financing solutions for middle-market logistics companies requiring capital for growth initiatives, refinancing, or ownership transitions. Their expertise spans senior debt, unitranche facilities, mezzanine financing, and preferred equity structures, with established relationships across the private debt markets serving the logistics sector.
Target Market and Industry Focus
Livingstone Partners primarily serves middle-market companies in the logistics ecosystem, including third-party logistics providers, freight brokers, transportation companies, warehousing operators, and supply chain technology firms. Their typical clients range from emerging growth companies seeking capital for expansion to established operators considering strategic alternatives or succession planning.
Competitive Advantages
The firm's specialized focus on logistics and supply chain creates significant advantages for clients. Their transaction professionals understand industry-specific metrics, operational complexities, and market dynamics that generalist investment banks often overlook. This expertise translates into more effective buyer targeting, superior valuation positioning, and smoother transaction execution. Additionally, their aligned fee structure ensures client interests remain paramount throughout the advisory process, fostering long-term relationships and repeat engagements within the logistics community.
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