On 4^th November, we hosted our annual Business Leaders’ Dinner in the atmospheric Napoleon Cellar at Berry Bros. & Rudd. The room was filled with founders and leaders from some of the UK’s most successful privately owned companies, gathered for an evening of conversation, shared experience and outstanding food and wine.

Our guest speakers, Peter Stenner and Tom Scruby, shared the story behind the recent sale of TMS Group – a thoughtful, often humorous account of the challenges and rewards of preparing for and completing a sale. Their openness clearly struck a chord.

As Peter recalled:
“We were initially approached by an investor who made an offer that at first, I considered to be a reasonable figure though there were certain earn-out clauses that were quite unattractive. Eighteen months later, after engaging Corbett Keeling, who attained several offers, we secured a sale value about 30% higher than the first with a lot less onerous conditions. And all the while the negotiations were proceeding I was able to keep on leading the business.”
– Peter Stenner, TMS Group CEO

Beyond the talk, the evening had its usual mix of warmth and energy – a chance for business owners to exchange experiences, compare notes and enjoy the company of their peers in a relaxed setting. Guests described it as “a brilliant mix of great food, fascinating people and honest conversation”, “one of the best business events I’ve been to in years”, and even “the only networking event I attend.”

Occasions like these capture what we value most at Corbett Keeling – creating space for real conversation, building lasting relationships and helping business owners achieve the best outcome when the time comes to sell.

We’re already looking ahead to next year’s dinner.

Read the full story behind the sale of TMS Group here.