Rainmakers

Rainmakers

Share this post

Rainmakers
Rainmakers
Why LDC's David Bains is Confidence Man
Copy link
Facebook
Email
Notes
More

Why LDC's David Bains is Confidence Man

"You don't work in this industry unless you enjoy it. You've got to have a natural desire to do it."

Michael Taylor's avatar
Michael Taylor
Sep 05, 2024
∙ Paid
5

Share this post

Rainmakers
Rainmakers
Why LDC's David Bains is Confidence Man
Copy link
Facebook
Email
Notes
More
2
Share

Hello Rainmakers,

Our data tells us that you like stories that lift the veil on how people in your world do their jobs, and do them well.

Today’s piece sees Sam Metcalf gleaning some real insights from David Bains of LDC, a successful investor into businesses in the regional mid-market.

Sam found him to be “candid without being a braggart” which speaks to a directness that favours private equity high performers.

We hope you enjoy it. 

If you have other suggestions for people who we should be speaking to, get in touch.

Rainmakers is a reader-supported publication. If you hit the button and subscribe below you’ll get access to all of our back catalogue of investigations, scoops, and insights. Including soul searching exclusive interviews with the likes of Charlotte Ashton, Jonathan Boyers and John Whelan.

WHY A DIFFICULT YEAR IS ABOUT TO GET BETTER

David Bains of LDC has built himself a reputation as someone who knows how to help businesses grow.

However, all too often the world of M&A can be shrouded in a mist of grey suits and corporate jargon. Bains remains steadfastly different; an individual who thrives on an enjoyment of the job and his knowledge of the local market.

So, in a stop/start year for the economy, how have businesses in the regions been doing?

"I think the world of M&A is a confidence game," he says, "and if people don't have confidence, owners don't want to sell their business. This also leads to buyers becoming more sceptical and asking more questions. So, when there isn't confidence that can reduce deal volumes."

Bains said this was certainly the case for 2023, which he describes as a "difficult year" - but the market has returned.

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to Rainmakers to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
© 2025 TheBusinessDesk.com
Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start writingGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture

Share

Copy link
Facebook
Email
Notes
More