the support of a professional adviser could help you navigate this new phase as an entrepreneur that will accompany a business sale and also relate to guidance on all the steps that follow once the business has been sold
When it's time to sell your business, choosing the right platform to list it on can significantly impact the speed of the sale and the final sale price. There are many online brokers available, mainly differing in size of businesses and industry served. This guide will explore the best platforms for selling businesses based on valuation. Even though this helpful guide can help you get an idea of what to expect when listing your company for sale, keep in mind that the support of a professional adviser could help you navigate this new phase as an entrepreneur that will accompany a business sale and also relate to guidance on all the steps that follow once the business has been sold.
Selling a Business Worth Over £1 Million
Valued over £1 million, such businesses require platforms appealing to high-net-worth individuals, institutional buyers, and private equity firms. These buyers are looking for established businesses with strong finances, track records, and growth potential. Here are the best platforms for businesses in this category:
1. FE International
FE International is a top-tier broker for high-value businesses, specialising in SaaS, e-commerce, and content businesses. They offer a full-service brokerage, including detailed valuation, marketing, and negotiation support. Their global reach and connections with private equity firms and high-net-worth buyers make them an excellent choice for businesses valued at over £1 million. Sellers benefit from the rigorous vetting process, which ensures serious inquiries from potential buyers. Michael Frew, SaaS Entrepreneur & Investor, looks back at his experience of buying a business with FE International: “They made it much easier to come in and look what my skill set would be good for and pick a business to run.”
2. Empire Flippers
Empire Flippers is another well-regarded platform for selling businesses valued over £1 million, particularly in the online space. Known for their transparency and detailed vetting process, Empire Flippers works primarily with businesses in the e-commerce, content, and affiliate marketing sectors. They help sellers find buyers who are interested in larger, profitable businesses and provide a robust due diligence process, which gives buyers confidence in their purchases. They also have a free valuation tool you can try to figure out how much your business is worth before you take it to the market.
3. Transworld Business Advisors
Transworld operates globally and is well-known for facilitating large-scale transactions. It was originally founded in South Florida by Don (a 30-year IBM executive) and his wife Bonnie Parrish. Nowadays they have offices in the US, UK, Canada, France, Japan and the UAE, among other countries. They provide personalised brokerage services, including business valuation, marketing, and negotiations, making them ideal for businesses worth £1 million or more. Transworld’s broad network of buyers includes private investors and firms actively seeking acquisitions in the UK and beyond, making it easier to find the right buyer.
Selling a Business Worth Between £500,000 and £1 Million
Businesses with a valuation of £500,000 to £1 million typically attract individual buyers, partnerships, and investment firms. These businesses often have a stable earning potential, yet there might still be room for expansion. Here are the best platforms for this valuation range:
1. RightBiz
RightBiz is a UK-specific platform that works well for businesses in the £500,000 to £1 million range. It provides tools for sellers to create detailed listings that showcase their business, including financials and growth potential. The platform attracts serious buyers who are specifically looking for businesses in the mid-tier valuation bracket, making it easier to connect with the right type of buyer. It not only allows you to buy and sell businesses, but it also has a specific section for franchises and a tool to find other brokers.
2. BusinessesForSale.com
BusinessesForSale.com is one of the largest online marketplaces for business sales globally, and it has a strong presence in the UK. While it caters to businesses of all sizes, its wide audience includes investors and corporate buyers interested in businesses valued between £500,000 and £1 million. The platform offers various listing packages, and its extensive reach ensures visibility to buyers actively looking for growth opportunities. They also provide many resources for people who are looking to buy or sell businesses, which include business and franchise guides as well as related articles.
3. Flippa (Premium Listings)
Flippa, primarily known for selling smaller digital businesses, offers premium listings for higher-value businesses. This option is suitable for digital or online businesses in the £500,000 to £1 million range. The platform provides enhanced visibility and direct assistance for sellers, making it easier to reach experienced buyers and investors looking for more substantial acquisitions. It also offers legal advice for those entrepreneurs who are selling or buying for the first time.
Selling a Business Worth Under £500,000
Businesses in this valuation range often attract first-time buyers, smaller investors, and entrepreneurs looking to grow an existing portfolio. The buyers are typically experienced enough to handle a more substantial transaction but are looking for businesses that still have growth potential. Here are the top platforms to consider:
- Daltons Business: Best for selling small and medium-sized enterprises (in the £250,000 to £500,000 value class), it provides sellers with affordable listing packages and the ability to showcase their business to many serious buyers
- Exchange Marketplace (by Shopify): Best for online companies (E-commerce) and those valued around £500,000, it connects you with buyers familiar with the online space, making it easier to sell a business with a digital footprint.
- BizBuySell: Best for small to medium-sized businesses valued up to £500,000, its comprehensive listing options and professional broker network can help increase visibility and speed up the selling process.
- Gumtree: Ideal for very small businesses or franchise resales- worth less than £100,000- for its low listing costs, it attracts buyers looking for affordable, easy-to-manage opportunities
Selling your business requires careful planning and choosing the right platform based on its value can help ensure a smooth, successful transaction. For businesses worth over £1 million, brokers like FE International and Empire Flippers provide access to serious buyers, while platforms like RightBiz and BusinessesForSale.com are ideal for mid-range businesses. For smaller businesses, Daltons Business, Gumtree, and Flippa offer affordable options that can connect you with the right buyers. By leveraging these online brokers, you can maximise your chances of finding a buyer who understands the value of your business and is willing to pay a fair price.
Choosing the right platform based on your business’s value is essential for a successful sale. By leveraging these online brokers, you can connect with serious buyers, secure favourable terms, and ensure a smooth sale process.
