STRATEGYMonths to result

Buy Cheap Assets Framework

Acquire distressed companies or assets at low cost

Problem it solves

unclear strategic direction

Best for

Companies with strong financial resources and industry expertise

Not ideal for

Companies with limited financial resources or industry expertise

Overview

Why this framework exists

This framework involves acquiring distressed companies or assets at low cost to improve margins and create a low-cost position. It can be a successful strategy in mature industries with limited growth opportunities.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Identify distressed companies or assets with potential for improvement
  2. Acquire companies or assets at low cost to improve margins
  3. Implement cost-cutting measures to improve profitability

Steps

2 steps
  1. Identify Distressed Companies or Assets
    Analyze industry trends and company performance to identify distressed companies or assets with potential for improvement.
    Pro tipUse industry reports and company data to inform identification of distressed companies or assets
    WarningBe cautious of companies or assets with significant liabilities or risks
  2. Acquire Companies or Assets at Low Cost
    Negotiate and acquire distressed companies or assets at low cost to improve margins and market position.
    Pro tipConduct thorough due diligence to ensure companies or assets are undervalued
    WarningEnsure acquisition aligns with company mission and values

Checklist

Saved in your browser

Examples

2 cases
Heilman

Heilman acquired regional brewers and used equipment at bargain prices, improving its margins and market position.

OutcomeImproved margins and market position
White Consolidated

White Consolidated acquired distressed companies, such as Sundstrand's machine tool business, at prices below book value and improved its profitability.

OutcomeImproved profitability

Common mistakes

2 traps
Overpaying for Assets
Paying too much for distressed companies or assets, leading to decreased profitability
Lack of Due Diligence
Failing to conduct thorough due diligence, leading to unexpected liabilities or risks

Origin story

How this framework came to be

This strategy has been successfully practiced by companies such as Heilman and White Consolidated, which have acquired distressed companies and assets at low cost and improved their margins and market position.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
Competitive Strategy
Michael E. Porter · 1980
Open source →

Related frameworks

Browse all Strategy →