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M&A InsightsStaffing / Recruiting
Staffing / Recruiting M&A guides and market data
Valuation guides, gross profit analysis, and exit strategies for staffing and recruiting businesses.
Market Snapshot
2.0x - 3.2x
SDE Multiple
2.9x
Typical Multiple
3–6 months
Time to Close
Strong
Buyer Demand
Key Facts
Staffing businesses are valued on gross profit, not revenue, a $5,000,000 revenue firm with $1,000,000 GP is a $1,000,000 business for valuation purposes.
Industry specialization commands a significant premium, healthcare, IT, and industrial staffing are the most valuable niches.
Contract/temp staffing is valued higher than direct-hire because of its recurring nature.
Client retention rate and contract length are critical metrics, long-term client relationships = transferable value.
Owner as the primary recruiter is the #1 discount factor, build a recruiting team before you sell.
Guides & Resources
Everything you need to understand this market, whether you're buying, selling, or advising.
How to Sell Your Staffing Business
15 min
Gross profit valuation, specialization premium, temp vs perm mix, and the process.
Read guide
The Staffing Valuation Guide
12 min
Gross profit vs revenue, specialization impact, client retention, and real examples.
Read guide
The Staffing Preparation Guide
12 min
Reduce owner recruiting, build ATS workflows, formalize contracts, and diversify clients.
Read guide
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