Behind the deal with Rutger Alberink

Deep dive: mastering Buy & Build

Buy & Build is one of the most powerful strategies to accelerate growth and create lasting value – provided it is executed in the right way. At FIELDS, we have extensive experience in developing and implementing successful buy-and-build strategies across a wide range of industries.

In this interview, Partner Rutger Alberink shares his perspective on what makes Buy & Build successful in practice. Having led numerous transactions and integrations, Rutger explains how strategy, timing, and culture come together to determine the outcome. We discuss how to identify the right add-on targets, how to structure and finance acquisitions efficiently, and how to ensure that the integration phase truly adds value rather than complexity.

FIELDS takes an active, hands-on role in supporting management teams through every phase of a buy-and-build journey – from defining a clear strategy to executing deals and managing post-merger integration. Drawing from our experience across different portfolio companies, we explore the most common success factors and pitfalls, as well as the dynamics that determine whether a buy-and-build strategy becomes a true growth platform.

This conversation provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs and management teams considering buy-and-build as a way to accelerate growth. It highlights how the right partnership, focus, and execution discipline can transform a good company into a strong and scalable group.

When executed well, a buy-and-build strategy can create significant value — for entrepreneurs and for their companies. It enables fast scaling, builds a more resilient organisation, and unlocks the benefits of size — whether by expanding geographically or broadening product capabilities.

Rutger Alberink, Partner at FIELDS Group