An Inside Look at Buy-Side Scouting Done Right
In the fast-moving world of mergers and acquisitions, speed, precision, and alignment are everything. That’s exactly what Fulcrum Sales and Marketing delivered when it helped The Stonewall Group successfully acquire SKS Studio—one of the most respected landscape architecture firms in the Midwest.
A Partnership Rooted in Strategy
In early 2024, The Stonewall Group—a growing house of architecture and engineering (A&E) brands—partnered with Fulcrum Sales and Marketing to launch a targeted buy-side search. Fulcrum’s corporate development division, often referred to internally as “Scoutly,” quickly went to work narrowing in on the most aligned targets that fit The Stonewall Group’s unique investment criteria.
Within three months, the Fulcrum team had:
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Refined The Stonewall Group’s acquisition thesis
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Identified a slate of qualified, values-aligned firms
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Facilitated strategic introductions
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Helped negotiate and support diligence for a successful transaction
The result? A seamless acquisition of SKS Studio, a premier landscape architecture firm based in Kansas City, MO, founded by industry veteran Sean Simms.
Why SKS Studio?
SKS Studio stood out as a clear match. Known for its exceptional design work, visionary leadership, and impact on placemaking across the U.S., SKS aligned perfectly with The Stonewall Group’s mission: to acquire and elevate purpose-driven A&E firms while preserving their legacy and empowering their teams.
You can learn more about SKS Studio at www.sksstudio.com.
About The Stonewall Group
The Stonewall Group is building a differentiated platform of A&E firms that are values-led, entrepreneur-founded, and professionally operated. With a unique focus on helping firm founders transition smoothly out of ownership and into their next personal or professional chapter, The Stonewall Group is redefining succession planning in the A&E world.
To see how they’re reshaping the industry, visit www.stonewallco.com.
Fulcrum’s Role in Unlocking Growth
Fulcrum Sales and Marketing, through its Scoutly division, specializes in helping buyers like The Stonewall Group uncover hidden opportunities, build trust with founders, and guide both sides through a successful transaction.
If your firm is looking for aligned, acquisition-ready companies—or you’re a founder considering a transition—visit www.workwithfulcrum.com to see how Fulcrum can help.


