Tuesday, February 28, 2023

How To Finance A Business Purchase In Canada - Finance In Canada: Takeover Financing For Acquisitions

 

 

YOU NEED TO FINANCE A BUSINESS ACQUISITION

BUSINESS PURCHASE FINANCING CANADA / OWNER FINANCING BUSINESS BUYOUT SOLUTIONS

You've arrived at the right address! Welcome to 7 Park Avenue Financial

Financing & Cash flow are the  biggest issues facing businesses today

ARE YOU UNAWARE OR   DISSATISFIED WITH YOUR CURRENT 

BUSINESS  FINANCING OPTIONS?


CONTACT:
7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8

Direct Line = 416 319 5769

Email = sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

 

FUNDING BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS IN CANADA


 

Information on buyout financing in Canada, including due diligence and financing strategies to complete a successful acquisition and takeover financing. Are you thinking of buying a company or acquiring a competitor in your market?

 

Business purchase financing and your optimal financing structure on your acquisition deal - Simply speaking it's the process of funding the purchase of an existing business with sources of financing provided by banks, commercial finance companies, or asset-based lenders. let's dig in!

 

HOW TO GET A LOAN TO BUY A BUSINESS IN CANADA

 

Business purchase finance in Canada often requires some, shall we say ' deft ' takeover financing strategies when an acquisition is made. This might often include a management buyout scenario. Let's look at some of the acknowledged ' smart ' ways to buy and finance to buy an existing business. Let's dig in. There are often great rewards when an existing business is purchased properly with the right underpinning of finance and mgmt skills - the challenge is the right loan to buy an established business.

 

 

WHY ARE YOU CONSIDERING BUYING A BUSINESS OR A COMPANY BUYOUT?  

 

If it's an add-on ( the pros often call it a ' bolt-on ' ) to your current business, it's obviously a solid mechanism to grow your customer base as part of your acquisition deal,  and that might even mean acquiring a competitor or a vendor with whom you do business with. When executed properly, it's a solid method of gaining market share, acquiring skilled staff and an infrastructure and business model that is already established.

 

There is a huge transfer of wealth in today's Canadian business environment as employees consider management buyouts, businesses consider mergers and acquisitions, and family successions are in full force. Since the millennium turn, we have experienced the first-ever large-scale transfer of businesses in Canadian history. No matter if we are talking about management buyouts, mergers/acquisitions or family successions, we have a lot more experience today than we did 15 years ago.

 

At 7 Park Avenue Financial, we find many business purchase leads come from business brokers, real estate agents or even online listings of businesses for sale. A business purchase might also be the acquisition of a new or existing franchise in various types of industries when it comes to the challenge to finance an acquisition solution properly.

 

 

 

 

FINANCING OPTIONS WHEN ACQUIRING A BUSINESS - BUSINESS ACQUISITION LOANS IN CANADA

 

Different sources of capital might be used to fund a merger or the acquisition of a target company. The overall solutions are known as your final ' capital structure. 'In many cases, a combination of sources of funding will ultimately lead to a successful transaction, so it's all about the right ' mix ' at appropriate terms, rates, and structure. Certainly not rare, but typically uncommon is to use your own personal or company cash reserves to purchase a business outright - that is possible. Still, more often than not, external financing will be needed when financing acquisitions.

 

While it is often not considered in the early stages of business financing, it will often become apparent that some form of seller financing/vendor finance is required to close the gap in your financing package. This component of your financing has numerous advantages.

 

 

HOW TO BUY A BUSINESS WITH SELLER FINANCING  

 

Advantages of Seller Finance / VTB - Confirms the third party seller's commitment to the new owner - owner financing is generally viewed as a very positive by commercial lenders and assists the purchaser in closing the gap in total financing for the purchase price required when the seller agrees to participate in the deal in some manner. Terms of seller financing are often flexible and creative and include provisions for the seller if the buyer defaults. They are sometimes referred to as an ' earn-out.' A business purchase agreement with a seller financing deal component will always assist your transaction relative to your down payment.

 

" The buyer of a business is not buying bricks and mortar, he is buying the cash flow " - Robert Kiyosaki

 

BANK FINANCING - SECURING FUNDING FOR YOUR BUSINESS ACQUISITION

 

Industry experts agree that Canadian chartered bank financing is typically available for only higher-quality credits. Many larger businesses cannot be financed without the involvement of a bank loan or a commercial loan firm.

 

  The first step in understanding traditional financing is knowing that Canadian banks place a high emphasis on the reasonable personal credit history of the purchaser, industry experience to run the business, personal guarantees, and various borrowing covenants and ratios around their financing in the transaction. The interest rate from a financial institution such as a bank or credit union will always be attractive and competitive.

 

Banks will do a careful analysis of the financial health and cash flow of both the acquiring company and the target company if one firm is buying another in a combined company scenario. Alternatively, some transactions could have the 2 companies remain separate entities or under a holding company.

 

You can expect a higher interest rate from an alternative lender. Over the long term, the buyer must consider the cost of capital versus access to capital when evaluating terms sheets.

 

 

 

HOW TO FINANCE A SMALL BUSINESS PURCHASE WITH GOVERNMENT LOANS 

 

Two sources of ' bank financing ' outside of chartered bank commercial loans are the Government Of Canada Small Business Loan program for transactions under 1 Million dollars and the government's crown corporation, committed to entrepreneurs - Business Development Corporation. These two solutions should be explored but have some specific requirements around how their business purchases are constructed.

 

A recommended strategy for these two solutions is to work with an experienced business advisor to determine if one or both of these two ' government ' solutions will fit your business purchase plan.

The Canada Small Business Financing Program is the Canadian version of the U.S. SBA loan. SBL loans finance 3 specific assets - equipment, leasehold improvements, and real estate. It's an excellent finance solution when small companies or franchises are being acquired. Talk to the 7 Park Avenue Financial team about certain conditions required under the program.

 

As a general comment, we can say that both of these 2 ways to acquire a firm are very focused on hard assets such as land, buildings, fixed assets, qualifying leasehold improvements, etc.

 

Unsecured Cash Flow Loans - Mezzanine financing   Highly leveraged deals can also be financed successfully if the underlying assets are strong. You can demonstrate the acquisition will generate cash flow to support the higher leverage in the transaction. Pure cash loans, called ' mezzanine loans, ' are very focused on the business's past, present and future cash flows.

 

It is here where a detailed business plan and cash flow projection are absolutely required. Because  ' Mezz ' deals are unsecured by assets, it's all about the cash flow! 7 Park Avenue Financial business plans meet and exceed the requirements of banks and commercial lenders.

 

raising finance for buying a business

 

 

VALUATION 

 

We're told by ' experts' that the financial markets are ' imperfect ' to some extent, and that's probably the case with valuing and then buying a company. Business valuation comes down to cash flow analysis  and profits. Your goal is to ' normalize earnings' to reflect how the new entity will perform in the future in the valuation process. Business valuators use ' multiples ' of key data points such as sales profits, and they are critical when considering how to buy a business in Canada.

 

From a ' valuation ' perspective, there are, of course, several time-tested ways to value the target firm. Naturally, there are different motives for buying a business that is already doing well. (Or a business that needs to be repaired! which often presents an even greater opportunity and risk)Those motives might be synergies, economies, faster growth, less competition, etc. Because many valuation strategies are subject to opinion, we've often focused more on the business's assets.' Good mgmt can usually reverse any losses, grow the business, etc.

 

The bottom line? Business value impacts the amount and terms of your financing!

 

EXAMPLE OF MULTIPLE VALUATION

 

If a firm generates 400,000 cash flow each year, it is not uncommon in many industries to sell at a 3 or 4 times multiple of that cash flow, thereby providing a potential selling price of $1,600,000.00 as an example 4x multiple. That suggested selling price must now constitute a financing package of your cash deposit, senior debt, operating debt, and potential seller financing.

 

The business's assets will allow mgmt to increase earning power if the asset's true value is understood. In many cases, a proper appraisal of assets may well be required or simply the right thing to do. The ' hard ' assets in the business are typically equipment, technology hardware, and vehicles. We also mustn’t forget leasehold improvements as a part of any firm's potential asset mix.

 

The ' current assets ' in the business will be providing the takeover with the liquidity and asset turnover it needs to be successful. Understanding the quality and turnover of accounts receivable and inventories are key to successful takeover financing. Note that almost always intangible assets and goodwill are normally not financeable in the SME (small to medium enterprise) marketplace.

 

Many firms invest in R&D, and in those cases, SR&ED tax credits can be part of the financing plan. All the analysis you do in the context of what we have discussed is knowns as ' going concern ' due diligence and may often require a final adjustment to an offer price to buy the business. All the valuation and diligence you perform will steer you to raise capital to buy a business. Getting proper financial statements from the target firm is key to any financing takeover success, again keeping in mind all the ' subjectivity' that comes with every item on the balance sheet ( except cash !).

 

 

HOW TO ACQUIRE A COMPANY - ACQUISITION FINANCING 101 

 

What strategies are used to finance business purchases and mgmt buyouts in Canada? They include Bank Loans - When Canadian chartered banks are the senior lender in your transaction, they will always require a total charge on all the company's assets, including current assets such as a/r and inventory and fixed assets, including real estate. Govt Small Business Loans (new limit = $1,000,000.00) - This program is one of two ' government sources ' of capital to purchase a business.

 

Terms are flexible and competitive, and the personal guarantee is limited. The government does not lend money directly under the program, which INDUSTRY CANADA administers. Instead, it guarantees a large portion of the loan to the bank that lends directly to fund your acquisition. The program's main requirements are a down payment, good credit history, and industry experience in the business you are targetting to buy. The ' SBL ' loan is often the best way to complete a small business acquisition.

 

Asset-based loans- Asset-based credit lines are a key source of business purchase financing, particularly when there is a leveraged buyout financing component. They monetize the business assets into a loan that can be both term and operating in structure. The revolving portion of these facilities provided day-to-day working capital and is paid down as sales are generated and clients pay. ABL facilities are often key to successful business purchase financing.

 

Sale leasebacks - Sale-leaseback financing can generate cash on already owned and unencumbered assets ABL Business Credit lines - these lines of credit are practical to the day-to-day running of the business and can combine all the assets of the company into one borrowing facility that margins receivables, inventory and equipment, as well as real estate if applicable.

 

Tax Credit Financing - SR&ED Tax Credits Can Be Monetized To Secure Cash Flow A/R financing - Receivable financing is a component of asset-based lending. The ability to finance business receivables is key to unlocking day-to-day working capital needs. Intellectual property, goodwill, and client lists are difficult to finance as an asset class.

 

Numerous forms of invoice financing can address the day-to-day cash flow needs of the business. Our recommended solution to 7 Park Avenue Financial clients is Confidential Receivable Financing, allowing you to bill and collect your own receivables, unlike the typical ' factoring ' model of invoice discounting.

 

Invoice financing is a term for arrangements that allow you to finance your business invoice receivables. It is mostly used by small businesses to improve working capital and cash flow by meeting short-term liquidity needs. The two most used solutions are invoice discounting and factoring.

 

Franchise loans - Many franchises in Canada are financed under the Government Small Business ' B I L ' loan and a combination of equipment financing and credit business lines or business credit cards for additional funds.

 

 

DUE DILIGENCE  - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

 

 

It's important to properly and quickly identify the documents and information you require to assess the purchase price properly. A typical package will include several years of financial statements and interims if available, corporate tax returns, premises lease, equipment lists, aged payables and receivables, copies of bank statements and details surrounding current secured lenders, and their agreements/collateral held / covenants, etc.

 

Assessing cash flow is a key consideration in business purchase finance.

 

NEGOTIATING FAVOURABLE TERMS  / THE ART OF NEGOTIATION

 

The entire due diligence process should be considered with the assistance of your lawyer, accountant, and business financing advisor.  Large corporations typically used investment banking professionals.Their advice can be invaluable to the overall success of your purchase. It would help if you considered any cost-cutting or productivity improvements you can make to grow cash flow and profits in the overall financial diligence.

 

It should be recognized that many business purchases might also involve assuming some of the debt the company has in place and that new ' operating facilities such as business credit lines will often be needed when you're considering all your acquisition financing options and structures.

 

 

CONCLUSION - WHAT ARE THE BEST FINANCING OPTIONS FOR A BUSINESS ACQUISITION

 

Business acquisitions can be challenging for the owner/entrepreneur. In many cases, a combination of ways to finance a business and different methods may well be required. You need to ensure the right amount of debt, equity financing, cash flow, and working capital to get the right financing structure in place for the business you want. Use the power of proper leverage to acquire your dream business.

 

Speak to 7 Park Avenue Financial, a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you in business purchase financing options that make sense for your transaction. If you are considering buying a business or acquiring a competitor talk to our team about business purchase financing takeover finance solutions you can use for a successful transaction around business acquisition financing.

 

FAQ: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS / MORE INFORMATION

 

What is a leveraged buyout?

Leveraged buyouts are when the buyer of a company takes on debt to purchase a business. A significant amount of borrowed money is used to fund the acquisition. Debt becomes the main source of funding the purchase/takeover.

 

What is merger and acquisition financing?

Merger and acquisition financing is the combining of two legal business entities into one - in the transaction, one of the businesses purchases the shares or assets of the other business. Different financial benefits arising out of this type of transaction. M&A financing will have benefits that are both strategic and operational around areas such as shared expertise, new products and services and access to new markets domestically or internationally. In larger transactions, private equity might be involved in the merger.

Operationally speaking other benefits potentially included streamlined operations and greater buying power.

 


What types of financing are available for business purchases? 

 

The types of financing available for a business purchase include loans from traditional financial institutions such as banks, as well as financing provided by commercial finance companies and asset-backed lenders.  The type of financing available from these lenders will vary based on factors such as credit risk, transaction size, type of industry, etc.

 

 
How do lenders evaluate a borrower's creditworthiness for the purchase of a business? 

Business lenders evaluate business purchase transactions based on the overall creditworthiness of the borrower as well as the target company - Key areas of focus include the personal credit scores of buyers, business credit scores of the acquisition target, collateral available, and the ability of the business to generate cash flow and profits.

 

 

What is due diligence, and why is it important in the context of business purchase financing? 

 

Due diligence is the process involved in reviewing the value and financial health of the business being targeted for acquisition. Buyers and lenders will focus on areas of potential risk as well as the value of the business in relation to the amount being financed - The growth potential of the business is also key in the due diligence process.

 
What are the key considerations when negotiating the terms of buying a business and arranging to finance the purchase?

 

When buyers negotiate the terms of a business acquisition they should consider interest rates on the financing and the amount of flexibility offered on repayment schedules. In some cases, buyers will be asked to provide collateral.  The cash flow and profitability of the business must be sufficient to repay day and run the day-to-day operations of the business in addition to retiring the acquisition loan. In the due diligence process buyers must consider company and industry risks in the business purchase.

Sunday, February 26, 2023

Unlocking Your Business Potential With Asset Based Lending Solutions






 

YOUR COMPANY IS LOOKING FOR  BUSINESS CREDIT VIA AN ABL LOAN!

IS ASSET BASED LENDING YOUR KEY TO BUSINESS SUCCESS

You've arrived at the right address! Welcome to 7 Park Avenue Financial

Financing & Cash flow are the  biggest issues facing business today

ARE YOU UNAWARE OR   DISSATISFIED WITH YOUR CURRENT  BUSINESS  FINANCING OPTIONS?

CALL NOW - DIRECT LINE - 416 319 5769 - Let's talk or arrange a meeting to discuss your needs

EMAIL - sprokop7parkavenuefinancial.com

 

7 Park Avenue Financial
South Sheridan Executive Centre
2910 South Sheridan Way
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7J8


 

"Access to capital is one of the biggest constraints facing businesses today." - Karen Mills 

 

ABL LOANS - A FLEXIBLE FINANCING SOLUTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS

 

Business credit in Canada. Can ABL loan facility financing really provide you with that business  ' wind in your sails ' your company needs to generate ongoing working capital and cash flow needs? We think so, and here's why! Let's dig in on the asset based loan solution!

 

 

WHAT IS ABL LOAN FINANCING? 

 

ABL loan financing is a type of business credit solution under the asset-based lending umbrella - allowing borrowers to obtain loans and financing using business assets as the sole collateral. Typical collateral in ABL loans includes receivables, equipment, and real estate -

 

In some cases, brand and intellectual property can also be included as a component of the asset base of the business. Companies in Canada use ABL finance to generate the working capital they need to operate and fund business growth . ABL loans are typically structured in a more flexible format than traditional bank loans.

 

These days, as we’ve noted recently, there isn’t a day when we don’t hear about the challenges of companies ' tumbling' when it comes to their challenges in finding working capital and even long-term financing. (Today, we're talking about working capital/ cash flow)

 

However, the good news about the revolving door is that when ' the bank says no ' or the bank says 'yes, but not that much, there is always an ABL asset-based lender willing to step up to bat.

 

WHY DO ABL LOANS WORK?

 

The simple reason asset-based lenders provide the business credit you need is that they are solely focused on the amount, quality, and monitoring of your business sales and physical assets. Those assets? They are receivables, inventory, equipment, and in some cases, real estate if that pertains to land or buildings owned by the company. 

 

 

ACCESS TRADITIONAL BANK FINANCING IS A CHALLENGE 

 

Our Canadian chartered banks, in their wisdom, focus on cash flow lending, with emphasis on financial statements, ratios, covenants, and outside guarantees. Who is right? We won’t weigh in on that one today; we'll say that each institution, the bank and the ABL lender, is one of two options to finance your business - we'll let you decide which one works best.

 

While ABL solutions are often more expensive (not always), that’s clearly one reason why companies gravitate to bank financing first. By the way, asset-based lending firms tend to be non-bank commercial financing companies, although some Canadian chartered banks have entered the ABL market.

 

ABL LOAN VERSUS TRADITIONAL FINANCING

 

An ABL loan or operating revolver, as it is termed, offers your firm continuous working capital as long as you have those assets. The key beauty of this type of borrowing is that it grows with you; it’s not set in stone once a year as it might be via a bank approval.

 

Who uses ABL? Pretty well, every type of firm in Canada includes manufacturers, service firms, retailers, and high technology firms. Again, pretty well, everybody!  The size of these facilities really determines who you deal with and your overall pricing and structure. Small deals start in the $250k range, while larger facilities can easily be tens of millions of dollars.  To show you the spectrum, a start-up can have an ABL line of credit, and some of Canada's largest and public corporations have abandoned bank financing in favour of ABL business credit.

 

THE BENEFIT OF ABL LOANS FOR BUSINESS CASH FLOW

 

A key benefit of this type of business line of credit tends to be borrowing power - receivables are margined at 90%, inventory ranges from 20-70%, and appraisals and valuations are done on your fixed assets allow them to be thrown into the mix also. Just imagine being able to borrow daily against the value of your fixed assets. That’s ABL power!

 

IS YOUR BUSINESS ELIGIBLE FOR ASSET BASED LENDING? HOW TO APPLY FOR ASSET-BASED LENDING

 

Your firm's ability to get approved for this type of borrowing will depend on your ability to produce regular and proper financial statements, as well as the need to ensure you can report on current assets on an ongoing basis - i.e. aged receivables, inventory, etc.

 

CONCLUSION - FINANCING BUSINESS GROWTH VIA ASSET BASED LENDING

 

Intrigued?  Is Asset based lending right for your business? As a Canadian business borrower, you should be. Speak to 7 Park Avenue Financial,  a trusted, credible, and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you with your ABL business credit needs and expertise in executing ABL transactions.

 

 
FAQ: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS/PEOPLE ALSO ASK  /MORE INFORMATION 

 

What is ABL loan financing?

ABL loan financing is a form of business financing that allows businesses to borrow under a loan structure that uses the business's assets as collateral. Key assets normally financed under this structure include accounts receivable, inventories, and fixed assets of the business - in some cases commercial real estate owned by the business can be included in the facility via either a business line of credit or term loan structure.

 

Unlike bank financing, very little emphasis is placed on the creditworthiness of the owners of the business. Asset-based lenders are skilled in risk management and asset valuation, allowing their type f financial analysis to provide greater financing for cash flow and business growth - Loan flexibility in ABL finance solutions is the reason this method of alternative financing is becoming more popular in the Canadian business financing landscape.

 

How does ABL loan financing differ from traditional loans?

 

ABL loans differ from traditional loan financing via banks or other traditional financial institutions because they are usually more flexible as the focus is on collateral, versus the emphasis, banks place on balance sheet ratios, covenants, personal guarantees, and profit and cash flows.

Since collateral levels fluctuate the business has the ability to access more working capital as sales and assets such as the investment in carrying accounts receivables grows. The ability to use a pledged asset to access business funding is a key benefit of asset based lending ABL. Fixed asset facility limits greatly increase the size of a non-bank asset-based line of credit.

 

 

What types of businesses are eligible for ABL loan financing?

 

Businesses of all sizes and industries are eligible for asset-based lending solutions - that includes start-up or early-stage companies and businesses that are temporarily financially challenged or in a restructuring stage - Assets remain the main eligibility focus - many subsets of asset-based loans can be accessed - such forms of financing include receivable factoring, tax credit financing, sale-leasebacks, purchaser order financing, etc. Traditional operating facility advance are often much less than is offered under an ABL borrowing base.

ABL lines of credit and term loans are covenant light structure based, focusing on the liquidation asset values of the company. If a business is in a cyclical or seasonal industry the ability to access capital is important so many types of industries qualify versus conventional lending criteria imposed by banks.

 

What are the benefits of ABL loan financing?

 

The benefits of abl loan financing solutions include more access to funding that otherwise might not be able to be obtained by a bank or other traditional financial institutions such as a credit union or an insurance company. Loans are typically structured around the customization of the assets of the business. In many cases, abl loans can help to refinance existing debt. Growth financing funding  is one reasons why many businesses consider asset backed loans.

Click here for the business finance track record of 7 Park Avenue Financial

Friday, February 24, 2023

Factors To Consider In Floor Plan Financing In Canada




 


 

YOUR COMPANY IS LOOKING FOR CANADIAN FLOOR PLAN  FINANCING! 

FLOOR PLAN FINANCING COMPANIES / INVENTORY FINANCING SOLUTIONS FOR DEALERSHIP FLOOR PLANS

You've arrived at the right address! Welcome to 7 Park Avenue Financial 

        Financing & Cash flow are the biggest issues facing businesses today 

                              ARE YOU UNAWARE OR DISSATISFIED WITH YOUR CURRENT BUSINESS FINANCING OPTIONS?

CALL NOW - DIRECT LINE - 416 319 5769 - Let's talk or arrange a meeting to discuss your needs

Email:  sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

 

 

UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS OF FLOOR PLAN FINANCING IN CANADA 

 

  

"It takes money to make money." - Titus Maccius Plautus, ancient Roman playwright  

 

Floor plan financing in Canada is clearly a niche financing industry.

 

Floor plan finance solutions in  Canada allow dealerships in various industries to purchase and finance inventory - The inventory finance lender provides a line of credit solutions that allow a business to purchase inventory for resale. Borrowers under a floor plan facility pay financing costs until inventory is sole  - many different industries utilize this type of financing to generate sales revenues without having to make significant capital outlays or investments. An auto dealership is a good example of floor plan finance utilization.

 

The landscape for floor plan financing has changed dramatically over the years, with this type of financing becoming a very specialized field when it comes to the need to purchase inventory for resale. Cash flow needs around inventory and product are key to understanding the solution of a floor plan financing provider for a dealer's inventory when you need to obtain financing.

 

 

WHAT IS INVENTORY FLOOR PLAN FINANCING? 

 

The floor plan finance solutions allow short-term financing of inventories for distributors and retailers  - Floor planning allows the manufacturer or distribution segment of an industry to satisfy client needs and demands.

 

CUSTOM FLOOR PLANNING OPTIONS

 

Many types of assets can be on a lot or floor for several months - floor plan finance companies take security on assets for clients who require floor planning and who are financially stable. Typically floor plan loans are accompanied by periodic inventory checks/ collateral audits via a floor plan auditor and via verification of serial numbers/ VIN numbers as well as the requirement for proper insurance to be in place.

 

Flooring plans allow for the commercial lender to register security on assets while dealers and distributors hold possession of inventory for resale - As assets are sold loans are paid down - with the process being known as ' cash interest-based inventory management.

 

KEY BENEFITS OF FLOOR PLANNING OPTIONS

 

A dealer floor plan funding solution allows distributors and retailers to increase purchasing power in their businesses. At the same time, they have the ability to grow sales by the ability to have more products on hand, as well as making strategic purchases around product price when opportunities become available

 

 

WHAT IS A FLOOR PLAN USED FOR? 

 

A  solid asset finance solution allows for payment to the seller/manufacturer with the requirement of a dealer to pay vendors as the product is old - That cash flow solution over a longer period of time will allow sellers to turn assets and generate profits within their business cycle.

 

 

 

BUSINESS FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS

  

.

As with many other types of business financing, a solid asset finance solution such as a floor plan facility allows the business to deploy capital in other areas of growth and expansion.

 

This type of focus on inventory management and asset management turnover is important to Canadian business owners and financial managers.

 

Your business has the need for inventory and floor plan financing that gives you the amount of credit limit you require to grow and prosper.

 

Interest rates charged on floor plan financing are important – equally as important is your ability to maintain enough gross margins to absorb floor planning charges and still generate a profit.

 

Floor plan financing in Canada is available for any wholesaler or retailer who is aligned with reputable manufacturers. Historically floor plan financing was for select industries but now it has broadened to a variety of consumer and commercial products.  In the 1980s and 1990s, floor planning of computers for OEMs and Value-added Resellers was an important component of the computer industry.

 

Floor plan financing is all about inventory management. You need inventory as your products are sold to your customer base.

 

In many cases, it also makes serious sense to ensure you have a financing program in place with the customer base also that is a logical extension of the floor plan financing that you yourself carry.

 

Floor plan financing is somewhat of a ‘risk-based financing, in that your floor plan lender always carries the risk that your firm might sell products ‘out of trust‘ – which is the finance terminology for the collateralization of your inventory by your floor plan financing firm.

 

FLOOR PLAN FINANCING REQUIREMENTS

 

A significant amount of emphasis on any floor planning arrangement is the focus that is put on your firm's overall creditworthiness and ability to conduct business in an honest and ethical manner. Clearly, your business model also necessitates that you have strong inventory and control systems in place which allow you to report regularly on the inventory that is financed, i.e. how to account for floor plan inventory.

 

In Canada, the Person Property Security Act and the concept of ‘security interest ‘is the lending documentation by which your inventory is financed and collateralized.

 

STREAMLINING INVENTORY MANAGEMENT WITH FLOOR PLAN FINANCING IN CANADA 

 

 

While physical inspections and regular and ad hoc audits are key elements of floor plan financing clearly the use of technology and the internet has significantly enhanced your ability to interact with your floor plan lender.  At the root of all floors, planning is the ability of the manufacturer, yourself, and the floor plan financier to communicate effectively. The overall creditworthiness of your company drives the final decision on what amount of maximum floor planning credit line can be provided.

 

We often speak to our clients regarding floor planning facilities on the need for your business to understand your inventory turns – in a perfect world, you want to have a strong inventory turnover which will drive a lower cost of carrying floor plan financing. In many cases the receivables you generate out of a sale of inventory can help to bolster your overall floor plan financing arrangement.

 

The ‘worst-case scenario‘ in any floor planning arrangement is your firm's inability to pay the floor plan financing at which point measures are taken to repossess the product. No one wants that of course. That’s the most negative aspect of floor plan financing – the positive aspect is that it provides tremendous financing power for sales growth.

 

 

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR FLOOR PLAN FINANCING CANADA 

 

Floor plan finance options are widely used in dealership/distribution type financing for many different asset categories

Companies will often need a combination of retail and wholesale finance options for growth objectives

Independent dealers cannot always rely on a manufacturer to provide financing

Floor plan funding is often part of a  line of credit solution

Floor plan finance firms assist in areas of credit risk

 

CONCLUSION - FLOOR PLAN FINANCING CANADA

 

Floor plan financing is a key element of business finance for any wholesaler or retailer of manufactured products by well-known household and industrial names. Speak to  7 Park Avenue Financial, a credible, trusted and experienced financing advisor in this area to determine how to floor plan financing in Canada works and how specialty finance companies fill the need to improve your revenues and profits.

 

Talk to the 7 Park Avenue Financial team about the costs of financing and the overall values in a floor planning facility that meets the flexibility and pricing you require to run and grow your business.

 

 

 
FAQ: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS / PEOPLE ALSO ASK / MORE INFORMATION

 

What is a floor plan in financing?

Floor planning solutions are inventory financing solutions for many different asset collateral categories - Distributors and retailers use these short-term loan programs from floor plan lenders and lines of credit from different financial institutions to purchase products for repayment until sold. Floor plan audits by the lender are a common business practice in the industry - for example, auditing auto dealerships.

 

Wholesale financing solutions in inventory finance/dealership financing will often involve a  revolving line of credit allowing the borrower to repay inventory purchases and allowing for more control of their business - as well as helping to generate sales and better profit margins in the business.

Asset categories that use floor plans from commercial lenders include car dealerships/vehicle stock, trucks, recreational vehicles, appliances/retail goods,  and construction and industrial equipment. The automotive industry is a large user of floor plan finance solutions based on the unique needs of the industry to carry product.

This ' pay as sold'  floor plan dealer financing allows borrowers to buy inventory without the use of excessive upfront capital and the financial will typically bring a level of financial stability to the business while ensuring long-term growth and maximizing short-term product opportunities while controlling expenses and cash flow given the ability to extend repayment to the manufacturer.

 

What is floor plan financing interest in flooring financing?

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Struggling With Cash Flow Issues ? Working Capital Financing Solutions Can Help Unlocking The Secrets To Business Cash Flow Problems !

 

YOUR COMPANY IS LOOKING FOR WORKING CAPITAL SOLUTIONS!

CASH FLOW MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND SOLUTIONS TO IMPROVE CASH FLOW

You've arrived at the right address! Welcome to 7 Park Avenue Financial

Financing & Cash flow are the biggest issues facing businesses today

ARE YOU UNAWARE OR DISSATISFIED WITH YOUR CURRENT  BUSINESS FINANCING OPTIONS?

CALL NOW - DIRECT LINE - 416 319 5769 - Let's talk or arrange a meeting to discuss your needs

EMAIL - sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com

 

 

WORKING CAPITAL SOLUTIONS THE COMPETITION DOESN'T WANT YOU TO KNOW ABOUT

 

 

 

Solutions to working capital problems for Canadian entrepreneurs work best when they come from the real world .. we can call it  ' main street financing '.

 

Yes, you're right - this isn't the time for ' crowdfunding ' !... what a concept that is  .. having a million people send you $1. We wish we had thought that one up.

 

THE MOST COMMON CASH FLOW PROBLEMS IN SMALL BUSINESS



What then do the Canadian business owner and financial manager do regarding cash flow problems and working capital solutions when cash flow shortfalls are tightest? Even well-operated companies require cash flow solutions for their profit and growth objectives; clients of 7 Park Avenue Financial tell us they just want to know how to get there.

 

We will discuss the common causes of cash flow shortages and what is at the root of these poor cash flow problems - Obvious issues are typically slow-paying customers or the seasonality that might occur in any business or industry - Many businesses also encounter unexpected expenses.

 

IS YOUR BUSINESS EXPERIENCING  ANY OF  THESE  COMMON  CASH FLOW PROBLEMS AND CHALLENGES?

 

Inability to pay bills and  meet vendor/supplier obligations

Unable to meet obligations around long-term debt financing

Missed opportunities for growth

Excessive reliance on the owner's personal funds to avoid a cash flow crunch

Inability to meet  payroll obligations

Reduced vendor and employee satisfaction and morale

High growth leads to lower cash flows as profits do not equal cash in a business - Expaning and a focus on growing quickly will always lead to a loss of cash flow as additional staff and investments will require external business financing

 

 

BOUNCING  BACK TO POSITIVE CASH FLOW 


Cash flow is of course 'fuel' that will drive the combinations of growth and more profits, and allow you to run day-to-day operations with greater ease. Your working capital is tied up in the current asset accounts on the balance sheet - that includes cash on hand,  accounts receivable and inventories for those businesses selling products versus services.

 

It's all bout cash going out versus cash coming in! Liquidity problems will lead to the ineffective running of the business and cash flow is always seen by business lenders as a key financial indicator of business financial health - Fast-growing and profitable businesses can easily have cash troubles.

 

 

 

2 WAYS TO ACHIEVE THE OPTIMAL BALANCE IN YOUR CASH FLOW

 

Cash flow problems and growth goals are usually tied together in some manner - problems for small businesses can be solved by a business owner by focusing on two key areas :


SALES .. AND ASSET TURNOVER!

 

Asset turnover is sometimes a bit of a surprise  to business people that aren't necessarily grounded in finance, but the issue of turning over your assets, in fact, opens up a wide variety of potential solutions, most notably:



MONETIZING AND CASH-FLOWING YOUR BUSINESS  ASSETS

 

 

By financing your assets and at the same time focusing on better turnover your overall profit/growth situation improves, almost immediately.  It’s all about ensuring your cash reserves :


Turning Inventories

Collecting Receivables Faster

Financing Long Term Assets Profitably

 
 
 

SOLUTIONS TO WORKING CAPITAL & CASH FLOW NEEDS - TRADITIONAL AND ALTERNATIVE FINANCING OPTIONS




Working Capital Facilities

Short Term 12 Month Working Capital Loans Paid From Future Sales

Receivable Financing / Factoring / Confidential Receivable Finance

Asset Based Lending / Non Bank Asset Based Business Lines Of Credit

Chartered Bank Solutions

Leasing / Sale Leaseback

Tax Credit Monetization

P O Financing / Supply Chain Financing



All these key solutions can be structured from both traditional and alternative finance firms. Even better, certain solutions, structured properly can be cobbled together to increase your firm's total access to credit.  It's all about monetizing the balance sheet, and your sales!


So how does the business owner/financial manager actually figure out how much to borrow, and then whether for it's short-term financing needs? And don't forget the overriding question which is knowing how to balance the eternal questions of more debt or adding equity as examples of cash flow problems that must be addressed. 

Remember that many of the cash flow solutions here monetize assets and sales and don't require ANY dilution of equity! That's a good thing from the business owner's point of view.


For companies that have inventory, it all starts at some sort of production cycle...  but even service industries in technology or other areas have their own flavour of a working capital cycle.


A very simple rule to address working capital problems is that whenever your receivables and inventory grow you are going to have to address more working capital solutions... it's as simple as that.

 
 

28% of small business owners say they lose sleep over cash flow problems; 48% say they pay others before paying themselves; and 28% had experienced cash flow problems such as postponing hiring - SOURCE: STAPLES

 

 
 
CONCLUSION - CASH FLOW MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR WORKING CAPITAL

 

There are many different types of working capital solutions for your business - as in all aspects of business financing, there are advantages and disadvantages to each solution - Making the right decision around the best solution for your company is job #1 for small business owners.

 

Cash shortages have numerous negative effects on a business and 'cash-strapped' businesses have problems that must be addressed.

 

The ability of a business to achieve positive cash flow and positive net working capital becomes the lifeblood of the company. Liquidity shortages are common in the majority of small businesses in Canada - Planning around effective cash flow management empowers your business to grow and succeed.

 

 

A Small business cash flow problem can devastate a business.

 

Speak to 7 Park Avenue Financial,  a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor with a track record of business finance success. Discover how you can address cash flow challenges... the right way. That is of course if your crowdfunding strategy doesn't work... and you can pretty well count on that one! Talk to our team about your business survival plan via healthy cash flow!

 

 
FAQ: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS /  PEOPLE ALSO ASK  / MORE INFORMATION 

 

What are cash flow problems, and how do they affect businesses?

Cash flow problems arise when inflows of cash into the business exceed current obligations - That's when a business is challenged to pay accounts payable and meet payroll obligations - Naturally growing the business in that situation is very difficult. Common causes of funding shortages include:

Low profitability - price rises won't always discourage clients and may also lead to perceived value for products and services

Overinvesting

Rapid expansion without financing in place - Uncontrolled business growth leads to cash shortfalls for businesses over-forecasting growth and expenses, it is important to distinguish between profitability and cash flow.

High fixed costs

Unexpected expenses

The owner draws from the business

Poor inventory and a/r management

Seasonal fluctuations in sales

 

 

What is working capital, and how can it help businesses solve cash flow problems?

 

Working capital is the funds that a company has available to fund day-to-day operations - Key balance sheet accounts such as inventory and accounts receivable are key components of working capital. Companies should review trade credit payment terms and focus on enforcing sound credit and collection policies.


If a business improves its working capital it can cover day-to-day operations and consider growth opportunities - Numerous small business financing solutions can be addressed to fix cash flow challenges - they include short-term working capital loans known as merchant cash advances, as well as other solutions such as invoice financing/factoring - Business lines of credit are the optimal solution. Cash flow statements in business financial statements outline the sources and uses of cash in a business.

 

How do different working capital solutions work, and what are their advantages and disadvantages?

 

Different working capital solutions work in different manners - for example, businesses utilizing factoring financing have the ability to sell invoices to third-party commercial financing companies, enabling the business to achieve immediate cash as sales revenues are generated. Inventory financing to fix cash flow problems can be combined with numerous asset-backed lending solutions with inventory being used as collateral for a borrowing base in combination with accounts receivable.


What can businesses do to prevent cash flow problems in the first place?

Businesses can prevent cash flow problems around poor cash flow management via financial planning in a variety of ways, including the preparation of proper cash flow forecasts and projections around cash flow management and funding needs for a healthy cash reserve based on sales and timing of receipts from customers.

Creating a short-term business survival plan should be a priority - focusing on issues such as profit and expense reduction. In certain situations, a scaling-back plan should be initiated.

In some cases, payment terms can be negotiated with key vendors and clients. Expense reduction around variable costs can also be addressed to ensure enough cash on hand. The goal is to be proactive from a prevention point of view.

Businesses also have the ability to refinance existing debt, allowing the business to achieve lower payments and lower financing costs. High-interest loans should be avoided if possible - Supplier financing can also improve the cash cycle.


  

How do you manage cash flow and working capital?  



 

 

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Working Capital & Business Lines of Credit and Loans To Optimize Cash Flow





YOUR COMPANY IS LOOKING FOR CANADIAN  BUSINESS FINANCING SOLUTIONS!

 

HOW TO MASTER BUSINESS CASH FLOW VIA WORKING CAPITAL AND LINE OF CREDIT SOLUTIONS

 

You've arrived at the right address! Welcome to 7 Park Avenue Financial

Financing & Cash flow are the  biggest issues facing businesses today

ARE YOU UNAWARE OR   DISSATISFIED WITH YOUR CURRENT  BUSINESS  FINANCING OPTIONS?

CALL NOW - DIRECT LINE - 416 319 5769 - Let's talk or arrange a meeting to discuss your needs

EMAIL - sprokop@7parkavenuefinancial.com


 

 

WORKING CAPITAL LINE OF CREDIT SOLUTIONS 

 

 

" If you can't manage your cash you can't manage your business " - Grant Cardone 

 

Business lines of credit & the right loans for your business deliver on working capital, cash flow, and growth for your company; they can come at a painstaking price it seems sometimes.

 

We're exploring the strategies that allow you to have business financing success in this area. Let's dig in.

 

 

WHAT IS WORKING CAPITAL? 

 


Working capital is all about the amount of cash a business can generate to fund day to day expenses and operations of the business. Business lines of credit allow a company to borrow up to predetermined limits and repay as cash flows come into the business. Working capital lines of credit loans and other monetization strategies give a company the flexibility to cover short-term obligations as sales revenues and expenses fluctuate.


 
 
FUELING  BUSINESS GROWTH-  WORKING CAPITAL AND A LINE OF CREDITS BOOST THE GROWTH OF YOUR BUSINESS  

 

 

When business owners and financial managers have successfully negotiated working capital facilities or term loans it should not be the end of the story. By that, we mean that the business owner and financial managers must continually focus on what the bank or other financial institution requires, and more importantly, how lenders view the customer from a control point of view. So how does the lender exert control over your business?

 

 

USING THE BALANCE SHEET TO FUEL BUSINESS GROWTH 

 

Knowing the balance sheet must be a top focus for the business owner - once a firm is over-leveraged, i.e. borrowing too heavily, the bank or commercial lender generally starts positioning around their overall security or your ability to de-leverage.

 

Balance sheet accounts in the working capital equation include inventories, accounts receivable, and pre-paid accounts - Short term liabilities include payables, emergency repair costs,  and fixed costs around items such as rent, utilities, etc, Some businesses must balance deferred revenue and accrued expenses in their day-to-day cash management of everyday business expenses.

 

UNDERSTANDING YOUR CASH FLOW  'TRIGGERS '

 

Borrowers must be comfortable and knowledgeable about the use of 'triggers '. Triggers are the implied actions the bank or institution will take when things aren't working out. This can include everything from general poor financial performance to very specific pre-agreed-upon financial ratios. And the business owner must remember that he or she agreed to and concurred with these ratios.

 

 

BANK FINANCING FOR BUSINESS NEEDS 

 

Banks want to see cash flow ' flowing ' - flowing to repay their debt - so there may be triggers put in place by the bank to ensure that minimum cash flow standards are kept, and also that owners and shareholders do not withdraw excess funds.

 

Over time business owners will probably find, in our experience, that the bank and business credit union restrictions either tighten up or loosen, depending of course on the overall comfort level the bank has with the firm. Clearly, firms that seem temporarily challenged in profits and balance sheet quality will receive much more scrutiny when it comes to approval for working capital lines.

 

Business owners can do some very solid and valuable preparatory work in the negotiation of bank triggers. If they have a solid long term history of earnings this should be a very strong negotiating point with the institution.

 

WORKING CAPITAL IN BANKING

 

Simply by self-introspection of the firm can the owner or financial manager focus on what is going to go wrong regarding sales, pricing, forex, etc? The owner needs to be able to talk about these issues and show how he could address them. Also, remember that traditional lending sources such as banks are not the only way to finance a business these days.

 

WORKING CAPITAL FINANCING OPTIONS

 

Other solutions in the alternative sector for SME/small business owners  include: Choosing the right type of financing for your business needs

 

A/R Financing/ Factoring

Inventory Loans

 Purchase Order Financing

Non bank asset based lines of  revolving credit

Tax Credit Financing

Sale leasebacks

 

Using 'what if 'scenarios help immensely and will position yourself as knowledgeable about your business.

 

Discussions with your bank need not be absolute and immediate on any time of loan negotiation - you can get a great informal sense of what the bank is thinking and work from that point forward. Try and read between the lines as to what is hot, and what a Vis is not with the bank Vis their perception of your firm, industry, etc.

 

In summary, business owners need to show maximum flexibility in working capital and loan negotiations. Negotiations should be from strength, accentuating the positive.

 

Example - strong forecast sales and profits can potentially offset a weaker balance sheet. That's when those alternative financial solutions should well be investigated. Trade-offs with the bank are also encouraged - and fewer triggers and covenants are better than more! Understanding the pros and cons of using a line of credit facility is key to effective business cash management.

 

 

 

' Never take your eyes off the cash flow because its the lifeblood of business ' - Richard Branson

 

 

 

 
CONCLUSION  - SECURE YOUR BUSINESS FUTURE VIA FLEXIBLE  WORKING CAPITAL SOLUTIONS 

 

And yes, there is more than one bank in the world for small businesses, although business owners should be cautioned that shopping around is not always optimal, and can in fact backfire, particularly for a small business. Business owners beware! Speak to 7 Park Avenue Financial,  a trusted, credible, and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can help avoid those painstaking finance errors.

 

 
FAQ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS PEOPLE ALSO ASK MORE INFORMATION

What is working capital, and why is it important for businesses?

 

Working capital is the funds availability that a company has that allows it to cover day-to-day operations Maintaining effective cash flows in the business allows the company to operate effectively and manage current liabilities such as accounts payable - A positive working capital position allows a business to capitalize on short-term opportunities.

 

What is a line of credit, and how does it differ from other types of financing?

Business lines of credit are a type of loan financing that allows a company to draw down on funds - Unlike term loans these facilities allow a business to pay interest only on funds that are used and drawn down on the facility - In optimal situations, business credit lines fluctuate according to sales and cash inflows from collections.

 

 

How can businesses determine their working capital needs, and what factors influence the need for cash flow?

 

 

Businesses determine working capital needs by utilizing financial measurement techniques such as the current ratio formula which subtracts current liabilities from current assets on the balance sheet to provide a net working capital amount as an example.  Other factors include the size of the business and the asset turnover in key balance sheet accounts such as accounts receivable and accounts payable. Some businesses and industries have a seasonal business aspect to sales revenues which also impacts cash needs.

 

What are the benefits and drawbacks of using a line of credit for working capital?

 

Companies that utilize a line of credit for working capital need to benefit from the flexibility to access funds as needed when there is a cash flow shortage  - Drawbacks for business owners to consider include interest rates and costs of financing and the danger of overborrowing or over-reliance on the facility.

 

What are some alternatives to a line of credit for working capital, and how do they compare?

 

Alternative financing solutions to a line of credit for a company's working capital needs that are short term financing based include financing solutions such as business credit cards and invoice financing, aka ' factoring ', as well as merchant cash advances which are short-term working capital loans repaid on an installment basis based on a credit limit calculated around monthly revenue and owner personal credit score and credit history. This type of small business loan / working capital loan is easily accessible but more costly.

Many firms use invoice financing as an alternative to a traditional bank business line of credit when traditional financing is not available to the business. This also eliminates overreliance on lines of credit. This method of financing allows funds to be deposited into the business bank account as sales are generated.

 

What are some best practices for managing working capital and using a line of credit effectively?

 

Businesses can utilize best practices around working capital management that include maintaining regular cash flow forecasts and monitoring asset turnover utilizing calculations for days sales outstanding and inventory turnover. Cash flow facilities should not be used to fund long-term assets - these assets should be funded via the use of equipment loans and lease financing which allow a business to match cash flow to useful asset life.

 

Click here for the business finance track record of 7 Park Avenue Financial