Middle‑market M&A demand

- Advisers see choppy markets as openings: CPAs are being urged to help clients with succession planning, deal readiness and post‑transaction work, not just sell mandates. - The Food Institute and BMO report sector strength, noting 2026 still has active strategic buyers and private equity in food & beverage deals. - That keeps demand for operating‑due diligence, integration planning, KPI harmonisation and PMO support alive for specialised advisers. (cpapracticeadvisor.com) (foodinstitute.com)