Growth Through Operational Excellence
BDO’s 2026 Private Equity Survey reveals how private equity leaders investing in manufacturing are pursuing growth as competition for quality assets rises, with greater emphasis on talent, value creation and operational excellence.
Based on responses from 141 PE firms that invest in manufacturing, the spotlight examines the competitive pressures, talent constraints and value creation priorities shaping investment decisions.
What Manufacturing PE Leaders Should Know
In manufacturing, In manufacturing, acquiring a portfolio company is only the beginning. The spotlight examines how firms are building the operating strength to improve performance after the deal closes.
of manufacturing investors cite increased competition as their biggest challenge to deploying capital.
Key Takeaways
Competition is affecting capital deployment
A more crowded market is changing how firms compete for quality manufacturing assets.
Talent shortages are affecting deal execution
47% identify finding and retaining the right people as their primary limitation to executing deals at speed.
Acquisitions remain central to growth
Manufacturing investors are balancing new platform and add-on acquisitions as they pursue growth.
Operational priorities are shaping value creation
31% select cash flow management as the value creation strategy likely to have the most impact this year.
Investors are maintaining exit flexibility
Manufacturing investors are evaluating several routes to exit.
2026 Private Equity Survey
Explore the full report and insights from all 400 respondents.
Methodology
This spotlight reflects responses from 141 PE firms that invest in manufacturing. BDO’s 2026 Private Equity Survey polled 400 U.S. PE fund managers and operating partners in May 2026 to understand their strategies as well as the opportunities and challenges on the horizon for the next 12 months. The survey was conducted by Rabin Roberts Research.
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