Is It Time to Exit? Why Smart Founders Are Selling – And How to Do It Right?

Take OldTown White Coffee for example – a Malaysian brand rooted in our beloved kopitiam culture. It started with a humble beginning, but over time, it built a solid presence both locally and regionally. Eventually, it caught the attention of a global giant in tea and coffee Jacobs Douwe Egberts (JDE), a Dutch multinational. The result? A RM1.47 billion acquisition deal that took OldTown (once listed on Main Market of Bursa Malaysia) private and handed its shareholders a sweet rewarding exit.

For founders, this wasn’t just a payout. It was a strategic move – gaining liquidity, accessing new markets, and handing the reins to a player with deeper pockets and international experience to grow the brand even further.

A successful business exit doesn’t happen by accident.

The sale of your business demands strategic planning/preparation and professionalism.

If you're a founder thinking about your next chapter—whether it's retirement, a new venture, or simply time for a change — selling your business could be one of the most important (and profitable) decisions you'll ever make.

Done right, it can be a powerful, profitable step forward – both for your company and your personal journey.

Thinking about selling? Let’s talk.

P.S.: Will Oriental Kopi (currently listed on Ace Market of Bursa Malaysia) follow the footsteps of OldTown?

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This article dated 25 June 2025 is contributed by Maple Chieng (Corporate Commercial Lawyer) from Maple Chieng & Co. for general information only and is not a substitute for legal advice.  

Maple Chieng & Co is experienced in providing comprehensive services and support in M&A transactions across a variety of industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and food and beverage. Please refer our website at https://www.maplechiengco.com/ for further information.

If you have any specific queries or require advice/assistance, please contact us at maple@maplechiengco.com