December 2025

Key Takeaways Franchises provide established brand recognition, structured support and proven business models, whereas independent businesses offer more creative freedom and flexibility. Start-up and running costs can be more expensive for franchises, but they could provide easier access to finance and established supply chains. Franchisees receive franchisor training and marketing assistance,...

Key Takeaways Evaluate your finances, credit report, and savings before you take out a business loan, and know what you can borrow. Draw up a detailed business plan with realistic financial projections and market analysis to prove your business’ viability to potential lenders. Familiarise yourself with the use of secured and unsecured business loans, commercial mortgages and alternative...

Key Takeaways Technology, healthcare, sustainability, e-commerce and professional services are among the sectors most in demand for business buyers in the UK, each delivering strong growth and profitability. Buyers, driven by a combination of financial rewards, individual aspirations and trends in the market, favour the sort of enterprises that display a strong bottom line, and are operationally...

Key Takeaways Although they don’t need to live in the UK, non-UK residents can own a UK business, but must have at least one director and a registered UK office address. Management and ownership are separate. Ownership didn’t confer operational control, so think about how hands-on you want to be day to day. This means foreign nationals can be shareholders and directors in UK businesses and...

Key Takeaways Add up what you need to invest, including purchase price, professional fees, due diligence, working capital and transaction costs, to make sure your budget is on board with all aspects of buying a business. Have a valuation done by different methods and professionals to form an opinion in making your purchase. Consider funding options like bank loans, seller finance and alternative...

Key Takeaways What’s the difference between buying assets or shares, and how does that influence ownership transfer, liabilities and the risk both buyers and sellers end up taking? Asset purchases permit the buyer to pick certain assets and liabilities which give more control and tax efficiency, while shares purchases mean that they take over the whole company with its existing...

Key Takeaways Established businesses present a more seamless transition for buyers, with instant cash flow, a customer base and brand recognition, whereas new ventures are more risky with a flatter road to profit. The most popular types of businesses for sale in the UK include retail shops, hospitality venues, service businesses, e-commerce, health and social care, professional services, and...

Key Takeaways Evaluate your own readiness by considering your skills, finances and ambitions, to determine whether business ownership is right for you. Research the market thoroughly to understand what sectors are strong and the competition before selecting a business. Evaluate financial realities by calculating available funds, understanding financing options, and preparing a comprehensive...

Key Takeaways Start with outlining your motives and determining your financial preparedness to ensure a business is a good fit for your future and lifestyle. Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses realistically, and seek mentorship or training to fill knowledge or experience gaps before moving ahead. Define criteria for the business you want to buy and have a method for searching, shortlisting...

Key Takeaways Be sure to search across various avenues for a business for sale in the UK, including online listings, business brokers, professional networks and approaching owners directly. Thoroughly research all sectors, from hospitality to retail, healthcare and services, looking for trends, regulatory requirements and opportunities that align with your skill set. Thought about off-market...