About the Guest(s): Costa Tagalakis is an investment partner at Valsoft Corporation, a Canadian company specializing in the acquisition and operation of vertical market software businesses. With a family background in entrepreneurship and a degree in finance, Costa brings a dynamic blend of business acumen and a deep understanding of small to medium-sized businesses. Prior to joining Valsoft in 2018, Costa honed his skills in investment banking, focusing on the bond market before deciding to dive headfirst into the exciting world of software acquisitions and mergers.

Summary: In this insightful episode of the How to Exit podcast, host Ronald Skelton is joined by Costa Tagalakis, an investment partner at Valsoft Corporation, who shares his fascinating journey and expertise in the niche of software business acquisitions. The conversation begins with Costa recounting his evolution from a family-run restaurant business to the world of finance and eventually finding his passion in growing companies through strategic acquisitions.

Costa delves into the operational philosophy of Valsoft, revealing how the company has rigorously acquired over 90 software companies in just eight years, focusing on factors like a high percentage of recurring revenue and strong customer retention. He explains the importance of discipline and a deep understanding of the software industry in successfully integrating and operating acquired businesses.

Key topics covered in this episode include the criteria for acquiring businesses, the role of due diligence, and the company's approach to global expansion. Costa also discusses how Valsoft's preference for privately-held, founder-operated businesses has contributed to their stunning growth rate and has positioned them as a notable serial acquirer in the software space.

Key Takeaways:

Valsoft's acquisition success is attributed to their focus on founder-operated businesses with high recurring revenue and strong customer retention.
Integration post-acquisition is key, with a structured approach that focuses on employee and customer communication, process improvements, and long-term growth strategies.
Valsoft maintains the decentralization of acquired businesses, valuing the brand loyalty and independence that contribute to their success.
Transparency between sellers and Valsoft is crucial, from discussing post-sale intentions to involving key staff in the acquisition process.
As a company that plans to hold businesses for decades, Valsoft provides flexibility and incentivization for sellers, ensuring that acquisitions result in mutually beneficial partnerships.

Watch it on Youtube: https://youtu.be/XgfMOjVNKeI

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Contact Costa on
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/costatagalakis/
Website: http://www.valsoftcorp.com/
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