Looking ahead to 2026, industry hotspots for M&A are likely to evolve based on emerging trends, technological advancements, and global economic shifts. Below, we explore the top industries likely to drive mergers and acquisitions activity in 2026, and what business owners should know if they are considering an exit.
Programmatic mergers and acquisitions are a strategic approach to M&A deals that companies use to acquire several smaller companies to achieve specific goals, such as growth and value creation. This strategy differs from traditional M&A transactions, which usually involve singular transactions and higher valuations.
On Demand | Watch Now!
Company valuations are a vital part of business sales, as they determine market value. Any buyer showing interest in your business will want the most accurate idea of what it is worth.
Benchmark International is pleased to announce the majority stake acquisition of the fresh id products group (“fresh id products”) by Fluid Branding Ireland Limited, a 100% subsidiary of Brand Revolution LLC.
Connection, collaboration, and the continued advancement of women in sports were at the center of the Lightning Morning Skate and Women’s Network event held at Benchmark International Arena. Women from across Tampa Bay gathered to watch the team prepare on the ice while engaging in meaningful conversations that strengthened relationships across their various disciplines.
Related Videos
Webinars, Testimonials and More
Highlighting top-notch M&A analysis, expert interviews, and industry trends to keep you informed and inspired. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the world of M&A, our featured content offers valuable perspectives and actionable strategies to navigate the complex landscape of mergers and acquisitions. Join us as we showcase the best of M&A expertise and innovation, empowering you to make informed decisions and drive success in your endeavors.
When a business comes with a clear, documented playbook, it becomes instantly more attractive to buyers. In this on-demand webinar, Clinton Johnston, Board Member at Benchmark International, and Tom Healy, Head of Certified Partners at Trainual, share how clear systems and processes reduce risk, increase valuation, and drive buyer confidence.
Deciding to sell your business is one of the most significant decisions you'll ever make. While maximizing proceeds is crucial, it's not the only factor that should influence your decision. Life circumstances, time with family, and other qualitative aspects can often outweigh pure financial gain. Join us for an insightful webinar as we explore the many motivations behind the decision to sell a business and why it's essential to consider both qualitative and quantitative factors in your decision-making process.
This webinar is a must-attend for business owners, particularly those who are contemplating the sale of their business. As the market remains strong but more disciplined, understanding your true motivations for selling can help you make the best decision for your future. Whether you’re aiming to maximize your financial returns or prioritize time with loved ones, this session will provide valuable insights to help you navigate the complex decision of when and why to sell
Dara Shareef serves as Managing Partner at Benchmark International and is charged with running the Tampa Transaction office. He also holds the rare distinction of having served in every role over the course of his career. His diverse background as both an operator of business and an investor into businesses allows him to anticipate issues in deals before they happen. Having been in each of their shoes, this allows him to think like both a seller and a buyer. Before arriving at Benchmark International, Dara served as COO of GSL Solutions. GSL provides web design and content management for roughly half of the US Senate and many school districts. Before GSL, he was a VC working for three different funds and held C-Suite operational roles in several businesses. Dara was formerly Vice Chairman of Sunmark Federal Credit Union in NY. One of the most exciting aspects of Dara's job is the opportunity it affords him to play with dozens of industries and business models. He has successfully facilitated transactions in sectors as diverse as SaaS, Commercial Landscaping, Vertical Market Software, Healthcare, Retail, Commercial Printing, Business Services, Marketing, IT Services, Niche Manufacturing, and Engineering.