Every business owner should keep one eye on their eventual exit. When planned correctly, a sale can provide a capital sum that rewards years of hard work.
Exit planning isn’t something to leave until the last minute. Starting years in advance helps make your business attractive to a wider range of buyers. Knowing your personal goals – whether a complete exit or partial involvement – lets us advise when to start marketing and approaching potential buyers.
Where will my buyer come from?
Potential buyers usually fall into three main categories:
- Family succession – keeping the business in the family, with tax and succession considerations.
- Trade buyers or financial institutions – competitors, suppliers, or investors looking for growth opportunities.
- Individuals or management teams – employees or external parties keen to run an established business.
Each route requires preparation, from governance and tax planning to presenting a compelling commercial story. We also provide insights on market trends across buyer groups, helping you choose the most promising path.
How long does the process take?
Selling a business often takes longer than expected. A straightforward sale can take 6–12 months once marketing begins, not including the years of preparation that make your business attractive.
Key factors affecting the timeline include:
- Target buyer pool
- Readiness of financial and operational records
- Wider M&A market conditions
We provide a Deal Process timeline that outlines every stage, from Exit Planning to Post-Completion. Proper preparation and a controlled process help achieve a stronger valuation and better terms.
Finding the right buyer
Finding the right buyer isn’t just about listing your business. A structured approach is key:
- Understand the market – different buyers have different motivations.
- Run a controlled process – identify multiple candidates, tell a clear story, and manage confidentiality.
- Use the right professionals – M&A advisers and corporate lawyers help manage the process and advise on selective marketing.
As part of The Corporate Finance Network, we access market-leading databases and networks to identify potential buyers for your business.
I’ve been approached by a buyer – why go to market?
It’s flattering when someone shows interest, but don’t rush. Going to market ensures:
- Fair valuation – a competitive process protects your price.
- Negotiation leverage – multiple interested parties improve value and structure.
- Risk management – avoid losing momentum if a single buyer withdraws.
- Cultural fit – the first interested party may not be the right custodian for your team or clients.
Exploring the market doesn’t mean dozens of conversations — it means a controlled process that gives you confidence you’ve chosen the best exit.
Final thoughts
Selling a business is a major milestone. With the right planning, advice, and time, you can find the right buyer on terms that reward you for everything you’ve built.
For an exploratory conversation on how we can help and the steps you should take, contact Mark Bramall.
