Regional and national mergers and acquisitions (M&A) continued a downward trend in 2023 following the high-water mark set in 2021 for deal activity, according to a new report from advisory firm RKL, which has an office in Exton.

The number of transactions in Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania decreased 18 percent versus 2022. When comparing 2023 transaction activity to pre-pandemic levels of 2019, there was a 13 percent drop-off.

RKL’s 2023 Regional Transaction Report found that transaction activity in suburban Philadelphia declined to 2020 levels last year. This was driven by a lower volume of in-market buyers, with in-market sellers maintaining at 2021 levels. There were a total of 249 transactions in 2023, down 29 percent from 2022.

Private equity continues to increase its presence in the M&A market in Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania, with 50 percent of regional deals in 2023 involving private equity investors or sponsor-backed companies.

M&A activity by industry, data breakdowns across six regional markets, and private equity trend analysis can be found by downloading RKL’s full 2023 Regional Transaction Report.

This report is produced by RKL’s transaction advisory experts, who provide trusted advice and future-ready insights to help your business navigate changes now and down the road. Whether it be mergers or acquisitions, taking your business to market or tending to its growth, the robust expertise and hands-on guidance of RKL’s Transaction Advisory Services Practice ensures a smooth transition leading up to and throughout the process, and a clear vision for the future. Learn more about RKL’s transaction advisory services.