M&A expertise in our C&R market update (Q1 2025)

The second edition of the M&A sector expertise: Consumer Goods & Retail Market Update is now available. This publication provides an in-depth analysis of transactions in the Consumer Goods & Retail sector for the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) in the first quarter of 2025.

In our C&R sector update, we analyze the following topics:

Market Overview: Due to ongoing market uncertainties and economic fluctuations, there has been considerable volatility worldwide, forcing dealmakers to remain vigilant. A slight increase in M&A activity in the sector is expected for the remainder of 2025 mainly due to strategic expansions, innovative technologies and need for digital transformation. Overall, we believe that the M&A market in the C&R sector in DACH is on a cautious recovery path with a positive outlook for the coming months.

M&A Activity: Consumer Goods and Retail M&A activity showed a restrained recovery after the year 2024, shaped by investments in core segments for market consolidation and tech-enabled innovations. Bolt-on acquisitions show substantial growth paths, especially in the direct-to-consumer segment. Cross-border deals, particularly involving the US, were influenced by tariffs and geopolitical situations.

Valuation Environment: In Q1 2025, we observed a decline in EBIT(DA)-multiples compared to 2024 in the Retail and Consumer Goods sector. It is important to keep a close watch on the sector as it undergoes substantial movement, with varying trends across subsectors.

We would like to thank you for your interest in our C&R sector update.