How DVS Group Helps ESOPs Find the One Rare Opportunity That Changes Everything

In the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), not all opportunities are created equal—especially if you’re leading an employee-owned company. At DVS Group, we work with mature ESOPs who are seeking more than just any deal. They’re looking for the one—a rare opportunity that aligns with their culture, enhances employee value, drives diversification, and sets them up for long-term sustainability.

We call that elusive match a Purple Squirrel. And we’ve made it our mission to find them.

What Is a Purple Squirrel in M&A?

The term “Purple Squirrel” is often used in hiring to describe the ideal candidate with just the right mix of skills and experience. In M&A, it means something just as rare:

• A company that aligns with your mission and values
• A target that offers strategic advantages and long-term value
• A deal that supports your capital structure, including ESOP-specific needs
• And importantly—one that’s not in a noisy auction or on the public market

That’s where we come in.

ESOPs Face Unique Growth Challenges

If you manage an ESOP, you know how difficult it can be to find acquisition opportunities that actually work. Many employee-owned companies hit a point where they’ve paid off their initial debt and are now sitting on accumulating capital—but don’t know how to reinvest it wisely. Others need to diversify, future-proof operations, or prepare for leadership transitions.

Challenges ESOPs often face include:

• • Limited internal M&A expertise
  • Lower bidding power in competitive markets
  • Pressure to protect employee ownership culture

• A need to avoid costly dead ends and failed deals

At DVS Group, we specialize in helping mature ESOPs turn excess capital into sustainable growth by identifying the right company at the right time—with the right cultural and strategic fit.

Our Process: Purposeful, Proactive, Proven

We don’t wait for deals to hit the market—we hunt for them. Our proprietary deal sourcing process is designed to uncover hidden opportunities that others overlook.

Here’s how we do it:

1. Understand Your Goals

We take the time to learn your company’s growth objectives, acquisition criteria, and ESOP-specific needs.

2. Build a Tailored Acquisition Strategy

Using tools like our Corporate Acquisition Workbook for ESOPs, we help you clarify your strategy, define your target profile, and align your internal team.

3. Proactively Source Off-Market Deals

We reach out directly to business owners who aren’t in auction-mode, ensuring a more collaborative and less competitive process.

4. Manage the Deal from Start to Finish

From diligence to deal structuring to post-close integration, we stay by your side—acting as both broker and advisor.

Real Results: The ACME Constructors Case

When ACME Constructors—a 100% employee-owned company—came to us, they had a growing pool of cash and a clear desire to grow responsibly. Using our tools and team, they acquired Ogden Brothers Construction, a culturally aligned company that expanded their capabilities, added younger workforce talent, and preserved their ESOP model.

That’s what a Purple Squirrel looks like.

Is Your ESOP Ready to Grow?

If your ESOP has:
✔ Paid down its initial ESOP debt
✔ $4M+ annual EBITDA
✔ Stakeholders open to M&A as a growth strategy
✔ Capital that needs to be reinvested for long-term value

…then you’re ready to start looking for your Purple Squirrel.

Let DVS Group help you find it. Contact our team to learn more and talk about how M&A can create sustainable growth for your ESOP.