HIRE Technologies Provides Commentary on Valuations and Transactions

Rhea-AI Summary

HIRE Technologies (OTCQB: HIRRF) reflects on 2021's strong M&A activity, where North American deals surged by 62% year-over-year. The staffing sector saw a 29% appreciation among peers, outperforming major indices. HIRE's EBITDA multiples increased due to robust labor market demand. The company emphasizes its seller-optimized transaction model, providing tax-efficient solutions for staffing firms. With a unique position as the only Canadian publicly listed staffing consolidator, HIRE is keen on collaborating with new partners, leveraging significant buyer interest and favorable tax exemptions.

Positive

• Strong 2021 M&A activity with a 62% year-over-year increase in deals.
• Peer group outperformance: 29% appreciation compared to S&P/TSX 60 and Composite.
• Increased EBITDA multiples reflect growing labor market demand.
• Unique seller-optimized transaction model enhancing after-tax returns for partners.

Negative

• None.

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / April 6, 2022 / HIRE Technologies Inc. (TSXV:HIRE.V)(OTCQB:HIRRF) ("HIRE" or the "Company"), a company focused on modernizing and digitizing human resources solutions, shares its views on market valuations and mergers & acquisitions ("M&A") transaction activity for the year ended December 31, 2021.

"On the heels of the strong organic growth reported across our peer group¹, we are seeing great returns for shareholders overweight in the staffing sector," said Simon Dealy, Chief Executive Officer of HIRE. "In 2021, our peer group appreciated 29% on a price weighted basis and outperformed the S&P/TSX 60 and S&P/TSX Composite by seven and five points, respectively. This reflects the heightened importance of strong staffing partners, like HIRE, to businesses of all sizes transforming themselves for the post-COVID world."

On a fundamentals basis, HIRE also notes that, among its peer group in the sub-$1 billion market capitalization range, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization multiples ("EBITDA Multiples") - calculated as enterprise value divided by EBITDA - have increased by +0.9x, reflecting strong demand in labour markets pushing growth expectations higher across the sector.

North American M&A activity peaked to record levels in 2021 with a 62% year-over-year increase in deals². Of note, private equity sponsor-led deals are becoming increasingly prevalent as EBITDA multiple expansion opportunities become even more appealing due to the aforementioned growth and significant private company discounts on transaction multiples.

HIRE's transaction model is seller optimized. HIRE works closely with its potential partners and their advisors to maximize after-tax returns especially with the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption in Canada now at $913,630 for 2022. "Strong valuations, a growing pool of sophisticated buyers, and the ability to structure tax efficient deals make it compelling for staffing companies to execute on succession plans today," said Dan Teguh, Chief Financial Officer of HIRE.

As the only Canadian publicly listed consolidator of staffing firms, HIRE is always on the lookout for new business partners and portfolio companies. Mr. Teguh can be reached at dteguh@hire.company for further information.

About HIRE Technologies Inc.
HIRE is investing in and shaping the future of human resource management with a technology-first focus, by consolidating and modernizing the staffing marketplace. The Company is a disciplined capital allocator due to its technology DNA and extensive experience in building and growing staffing and executive search companies, providing a shared services platform to create value for partners and shareholders. HIRE has a large recurring revenue base and helps clients manage change in the workplace in order to achieve success. For more information, visit hire.company.

Contacts
Simon Dealy
Chief Executive Officer
(647) 264-9196
sdealy@hire.company

Caroline Sawamoto
Investor Relations
(647) 556-4498
investors@hire.company

Footnotes

1. As disclosed by Randstad N.V., Adecco Group, Robert Half International Inc., ManpowerGroup; Kforce, Inc.; TrueBlue, Inc.; Resources Connection, Inc.; and The Caldwell Partners International Inc.
2. According to Staffing Industry Analysts

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

SOURCE: HIRE Technologies Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:
https://www.accesswire.com/696175/HIRE-Technologies-Provides-Commentary-on-Valuations-and-Transactions

FAQ

What significant M&A activity did HIRE Technologies report for 2021?

HIRE Technologies noted a 62% year-over-year increase in North American M&A deals, reflecting robust market conditions.

How did HIRE Technologies' peer group perform in 2021?

The peer group appreciated 29% on a price-weighted basis, surpassing the S&P/TSX 60 and S&P/TSX Composite by seven and five points respectively.

What does HIRE Technologies' seller-optimized transaction model offer?

The seller-optimized transaction model focuses on maximizing after-tax returns for staffing companies, particularly leveraging favorable tax exemptions.

What is the current Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption for 2022?

The Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption in Canada is set at $913,630 for the year 2022.

How does HIRE Technologies aim to shape the staffing industry?

HIRE is consolidating and modernizing the staffing marketplace with a technology-first focus, providing a shared services platform for partners.