Guide

Find a business to buy

How to identify and source business acquisition opportunities through brokers, online marketplaces, direct approaches, and succession opportunities.

UK-wide

Finding businesses for sale

There are several ways to identify acquisition opportunities, from working with professional brokers to approaching businesses directly.

Business brokers and intermediaries

Professional brokers market businesses for sale, facilitate negotiations, and manage the transaction process. They typically charge the seller 8-10% commission (though rates can vary from 5-12% depending on business size and broker). Major brokers include Daltons Business, Christie & Co, and Businesses for Sale.

Advantages of using brokers

  • Pre-vetted opportunities: Brokers screen businesses before listing
  • Professional marketing: Detailed business profiles and financial summaries
  • Negotiation support: Brokers facilitate offers and manage communications
  • Transaction management: Coordinate advisors and completion process

Drawbacks

  • Commission costs reduce seller's net proceeds (may inflate asking prices)
  • Competition from other buyers
  • Limited to businesses the broker represents

Online marketplaces

  • BusinessesForSale.com: Largest UK marketplace with thousands of listings
  • Daltons Business: Established broker with online listings
  • Rightbiz: Business transfer marketplace
  • LinkedIn and industry networks: Off-market opportunities shared within professional networks

Online marketplaces allow you to filter by sector, location, price range, and turnover. You can set up alerts for businesses matching your criteria.

Direct approach

Identify businesses you'd like to buy and approach owners directly. Many business owners haven't formally listed but would consider offers. This avoids broker fees and competition from other buyers.

How to approach owners directly

  • Research the business thoroughly first (Companies House, website, reviews)
  • Write a professional letter or email expressing interest
  • Be clear about your credentials and funding position
  • Respect confidentiality - don't broadcast your interest publicly
  • Be prepared for rejection - many won't be interested

Succession and retirement sales

Owners approaching retirement often seek succession buyers. These can be good opportunities as the owner may be motivated to ensure business continuity rather than maximize price.

Retirement sales may offer:

  • Better pricing: Owner prioritizes continuity over maximum price
  • Transition support: Owner available to help with handover
  • Customer reassurance: Retirement is a natural transition story for customers
  • Less competition: May not be widely marketed

  1. Define your acquisition criteria

    Be specific about the type of business you want - sector, size, location, price range, profitability. This focuses your search and helps brokers find suitable opportunities.

  2. Register with business brokers

    Contact major brokers (Daltons Business, Christie & Co) and register your requirements. They'll send you opportunities matching your criteria.

  3. Set up marketplace alerts

    Create accounts on BusinessesForSale.com and Rightbiz, set search criteria, and enable email alerts for new listings.

  4. Identify direct approach targets

    Make a list of businesses you'd consider buying even if not for sale. Research owners, understand their situation, and prepare professional approach communications.