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When a Business Sale Isn't Only About Money: Lifestyle and Legacy Deals
For many business owners, the decision to sell is not driven solely by price. Of course value matters and no sensible owner ignores it. But in practice, a large proportion of SME exits are shaped just as much by lifestyle priorities and legacy concerns as by headline consideration. At Exits.co.uk , we see this repeatedly. Owners who have spent decades building a business often care deeply about what happens next. Who takes over. How staff are treated. Whether the business con
Building Buyer Trust Through Transparency Without Oversharing
Why trust is the real currency in a business sale Every business sale ultimately comes down to trust. Buyers are not just buying numbers. They are buying continuity, reliability, and reduced risk. If trust is weak, offers are cautious, deal structures become more complex, and price chips away through earn-outs, retentions, and deferred consideration. That said, transparency does not mean laying everything bare at the wrong time or to the wrong audience. Oversharing too early
How to Keep Buyers Engaged in a Slow Market
A slow market exposes weaknesses in both businesses and processes. Timelines drift, enthusiasm fades, and buyers become increasingly cautious. What would normally be a confident, efficient negotiation starts to feel laboured. For business owners preparing to sell, the risk is clear: a disengaged buyer becomes a delayed buyer, and a delayed buyer is far more likely to withdraw. Yet maintaining momentum is entirely achievable when handled with discipline. The truth is that seri
Why Deals Collapse After Heads of Terms – And How to Prevent It
Reaching Heads of Terms feels like victory, but it is merely the halfway mark. Too many business owners assume that once the outline deal is agreed, momentum will carry the transaction through to completion. It will not. A large proportion of SME deals collapse after Heads of Terms because the hard work begins at precisely the point owners finally take a breath. Completion requires scrutiny, resilience, and professional discipline. Without it, deals unravel quickly. At EXITS
The Psychology of Selling a Business: Managing Emotions and Expectations
Selling a business is not only a financial decision. It is an emotional one. For many owners, the company represents decades of work, personal sacrifice, and a major part of their identity. The sale process triggers a mix of anticipation, anxiety, pride, and uncertainty. Understanding the psychology behind these emotions is essential for making clear decisions and avoiding the common pitfalls that can derail a transaction. At EXITS.co.uk , we support owners through this journ
The "Silent Partner" Sale: Keeping Your Exit Discreet
A silent partner style sale appeals to business owners who value privacy and want to protect stability within their company. It allows you to step back quietly while preserving confidence among staff, customers, and suppliers. This type of exit requires careful planning and a disciplined approach to confidentiality. A silent partner exit enables the transfer of control without creating uncertainty in the market. The buyer steps in quietly, the team continues as normal, and th
Ensuring a Smooth &
Successful Business Sale
At Exits.co.uk, we pride ourselves on being a trusted partner who puts your needs first. Our commitment to transparency, alignment, and excellence ensures that your business sale is handled with the care and expertise it deserves. Ready to take the next step?
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Navigating Private Equity Challenges: Exploring Alternatives for Sustainable Growth
In the world of acquisitions and divestitures, private equity (PE) often appears as an attractive partner, offering large-scale capital infusions, strategic exit plans, and financial expertise. However, while PE may seem like the ideal solution for businesses looking to expand or sell, it’s essential to understand the potential pitfalls that can come with these partnerships. Beyond the promising numbers lies a reality that may not align with your long-term goals, core values,
The Role of Competitive Tension in Driving Higher Offers
When selling a business, attracting strong offers is essential to achieving the best possible outcome. One of the most effective ways to increase buyer interest and maximise valuation is by creating competitive tension among potential buyers. Competitive tension occurs when multiple interested parties vie for the opportunity to acquire a business, creating a sense of urgency and prompting each buyer to put forth their best offer. This dynamic can significantly enhance the bus
How to Maximise Your Business Value Before You Sell
Selling a business can be one of the most rewarding milestones in a business owner’s career, often representing the result of years of dedication, hard work, and investment. However, maximising the value of your business before you sell is crucial to ensuring a successful and financially rewarding exit. By taking proactive steps in the lead-up to a sale, owners can drive up valuation, attract high-quality buyers, and secure the best possible deal. 1. Organise and Streamline F
Top 10 Mistakes SME Owners Make When Selling Their Business
Selling a business is one of the most significant financial and emotional decisions an SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) owner can make. For many, it represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and personal investment. However, the process of selling an SME is complex and fraught with potential pitfalls that can jeopardise value and disrupt a smooth transition. This article explores the top 10 mistakes that SME owners commonly make when selling their b
Why Success-Based Fees are Ideal for SME Business Sales
Brokers who agree to a success-based model often do so because they have confidence in both their ability to sell the business.
Creating a Competitive Bidding Environment When Selling Your Business
Selling a business is complex, but a well-executed competitive bidding strategy can yield significant rewards.
How to Maintain Confidentiality When Selling Your Business
Confidentiality is key to protecting your business’s sensitive information, continuity, and reputation during a sale.
Why Selling Your Business Off-Market Could Be Your Best Move
As a business advisor, helping clients successfully navigate the complexities of selling their business is a critical responsibility. While many business owners may instinctively opt for a public listing, there’s a highly effective alternative that advisors should be aware of: facilitating an off-market sale. This confidential approach offers significant strategic advantages, protecting the client’s business while optimising the sale process. Here, we’ll explore why off-marke
Unlocking Growth Through Divesting Non-Core Businesses
In today’s fast-paced corporate environment, divesting non-core business units has emerged as a highly effective strategy for companies looking to sharpen their focus and drive sustainable growth. By selling off or discontinuing operations that no longer align with their primary goals, companies can better concentrate their resources on areas that offer the greatest strategic advantage. For business advisers, working with a client considering divestment presents a valuable op
Balancing Price and Value: Helping Clients Overcome the Challenges of Financially-Driven Buyers
As a business advisor, you're instrumental in helping clients navigate one of their most significant decisions: selling their business. For many, especially those nearing retirement, this process can be both exciting and overwhelming. The influx of unsolicited offers from buyers can add confusion, making your strategic guidance invaluable. Recognising the Types of Buyers In recent years, there's been a rise in financially motivated buyers aiming to purchase businesses at the
The Smart Exit: Could an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) Be Your Best Business Move?
When business owners consider exiting their company, they face several options: sell to a trade buyer, bring in an investor, or transition to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). While all paths have their advantages, transitioning to an EOT presents unique benefits, especially for owners committed to their legacy, employees, and the long-term health of the business. Below, we explore why choosing an EOT may be the smart rxit option over traditional exits like trade sales or in
Are You Just Another Number for Potential Investors?
As a business owner eyeing an exit strategy, an unexpected proposal from a potential acquirer can feel exciting and flattering. But bear in mind, this is just the first step in a complex process, known as deal origination. This article aims to demystify how investors locate businesses like yours and what it signifies for you, an owner planning to step away from the business. Understanding Deal Origination So, what is Deal Origination? Deal origination forms the backbone of th
How to Protect Your Business Sale from Offer Sequencing Strategies
Selling a business is a delicate process that requires careful planning, insight into negotiation tactics, and a strong strategy to ensure a fair deal. One of the key strategies employed by potential buyers is offer sequencing—a method that can put sellers at a disadvantage if they are unaware of how it works. By understanding this technique, business owners can better protect their interests during negotiations and secure a deal that accurately reflects the value of their co
Top 10 Tips for a Successful Business Exit Plan
As a business owner, contemplating the future exit from your business can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you plan to sell your business soon or in the distant future, a well-structured exit plan is crucial to ensure a smooth transition, maximise your returns, and secure the legacy of your hard work. Here are the top 10 tips for crafting a successful business exit plan. 1. Start Planning Early The most critical element of a successful business exit is early planning. I
Why Timing Matters When Selling Your Business
Selling a business is a monumental decision, one that often represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and passion. It's a process that can be both financially and emotionally rewarding if handled correctly. One of the most crucial factors that can significantly impact the success of this endeavour is timing. Understanding when to sell your business can make a difference between a lucrative deal and a missed opportunity. This article explores the importance
How to Keep Your Sale Confidential and Protect Sensitive Information
In today's competitive business environment, confidentiality during the sale of a business is paramount. For business owners considering selling their company, safeguarding sensitive information is crucial to ensuring a smooth transaction and protecting both the business's value and the interests of all parties involved. Here’s how to maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive information throughout the sale process. 1. Engage Trusted Advisors Before initiating any sale p
The Solitary Climb: Navigating the Day-to-Day Challenges of Entrepreneurial Business Ownership
The Solitary Journey of Entrepreneurship For many entrepreneurial business owners, the path to success is a lonely one. The excitement of building and expanding a business often comes with the heavy burden of responsibility and relentless decision-making. As businesses grow, the complexities increase, and the stakes rise. The drive for continuous growth can be thrilling yet exhausting, leaving many business owners feeling isolated and overwhelmed on the solitary climb. The Pr
The Strategic Value of Off-Market Business Sales: A Pathway to Success for Business Owners
Selling a business is a pivotal decision, fraught with complexities and strategic considerations. While public listings are often the go-to method, an off-market or confidential sale can provide unique advantages, particularly for UK business owners seeking a smooth and lucrative exit. Building on the insights from Vexus , we delve deeper into why confidentiality in business sales can be a game-changer, offering fresh perspectives and practical strategies tailored for those l
Navigating Business Exits: Independent Advisers vs. Corporate Firms
Independent vs Corporate When the time comes to part ways with your cherished business, the decision of whom to trust with your exit strategy becomes pivotal. This choice can significantly impact the rewards you reap and the ease with which you transition to the next chapter of your life. As you ponder this crucial decision, consider the distinct advantages of enlisting smaller, independent advisers—seasoned veterans who bring a unique spirit to the table vs Corporate firms.
The Game Changing Role of an M&A Adviser in Buyer Qualification
The sale of a business is a complex, high-stake transaction that requires specific expertise for optimal outcomes. The original article 'Your Business Sale & Exit: The Importance of Expert Qualification and Negotiation' emphasises the critical roles played by Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) advisers in both buyer qualification and negotiation, highlighting how their involvement can significantly enhance the sale process and outcome. Understanding Buyer Qualification The buyer
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