Consumer & Retail |

Quarterly M&A Update | Q1 2025

Latest market trends, valuation levels and deals

All eyes on Trump-induced trade tensions and political uncertainty

Q1 2025 began with a robust market sentiment and stable M&A activity (241 transactions), particularly in the segments of Personal Care and Distribution. Mid-quarter, however, the focus shifted towards politics with elections in Germany, causing uncertainty and contributing to market volatility. Additionally, escalating trade tensions with the US put valuations under increased pressure. The average EV/EBITDA valuation stood at 12.9x end of March. For Q2, global attention is centered on the trade war initiated by President Trump, severely impacting consumer spending behaviors and affecting global trade.

We are delighted to share the latest issue of our Consumer & Retail Quaterly M&A Update for the first quarter of 2025. In this report, we provide an update on latest industry trends plus insights into valuation levels and recent transactions.  

We hope you enjoy the read and look forward to your feedback.

Consumer & Retail Quarterly M&A Update Q1 2025.pdf Download PDF

Your Consumer & Retail experts at Oaklins Germany

Dr. Lutz Becker Hamburg, Germany
Associate Partner
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Karsten Maschler Hamburg, Germany
Managing Director

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Christian Ernst Hamburg, Germany
Senior Associate
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Thorben Hinderks Hamburg, Germany
Senior Associate
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Kevin Johannes Kambach Hamburg, Germany
Senior Associate
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Moritz N. Jaeger Hamburg, Germany
Associate
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Maren Tietz Frankfurt, Germany
Associate
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