Letter to Fabion

The Logistics Enterprise

Dear Fabion,

Thank you for considering introducing me to Dentons' client, the logistics company. I am unsure whether they require growth capital, are seeking partial recapitalization, need funding for mergers and acquisitions, or some other form of investment. However, it is evident there is a surplus of unspent investment capital, known as "Dry Powder," in the EU and USA, and a relative deficit in Indonesia. This discrepancy, confirmed by professionals like you, highlights a significant market opportunity.

If I were to assist them, here is what I would do first and foremost:

  • Collect financial accounting statements:
    • Six years' balance sheets
    • Five years' income statements
    • Five years' cash flow statements
  • Then, I would calculate some very basic accounting ratios:

    • Gross and net profit margins
    • Return on Assets
    • Return on Equity

    Beyond that, I would delve into what makes them a strong company. Here are some questions I would pose to assemble a prospectus:

    • How does the company ensure operational efficiency in logistics management, including route planning, warehouse management, and transportation logistics?
    • What technologies and automation processes has the company adopted to increase efficiency, such as ERP systems, IoT, and robotics, and how are they integrated into daily operations?
    • How does the company maintain value relations and team dynamics, and what training programs are in place to keep employees updated with the latest logistics trends?
    • What systems and strategies are in place for effective warehouse management, and how do they contribute to the overall efficiency of logistics operations?
    • How does the company optimize its transportation system to minimize costs and improve delivery times, considering factors such as delivery routes, packaging, and modal options?
    • What performance measurement and continuous improvement processes are employed, and how are KPIs used to identify and address inefficiencies?
    • How does the company manage and mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions, including natural disasters, geopolitical instabilities, and transportation delays?
    • What role does technology and automation play in the company's logistics strategy, particularly in areas like order processing, inventory management, and warehouse operations?
    • How does the company align its corporate strategy with its organizational model, and how is the strategy tailored to meet the needs of targeted customer segments?
    • In what ways does the company optimize logistics costs for customers while reducing the order completion cycle and minimizing fixed assets?

    I would develop an investment hypothesis with management, create a deal book, and then present it to 20 or 30 private equity firms. They will get a deal.

    In any case, as you can tell, I love deals. Please let me know if you would like me to introduce myself to your clients and help them raise some money.

    Sincerely,
    Nick