Corporate Finance
Selling your business
We specialise in helping business owners with their succession planning. We’re here to guide you through every step of selling your business. Let’s achieve your goals together.
Unlocking Your Business’s Full Potential
Are you a business owner contemplating the sale of your beloved company? The decision to sell your business can be very complex and can quickly become confusing. We are here to ensure that what can be a long and stressful process is handled seamlessly and confidentially. You will also want to ensure that you achieve the best possible price for your business to maximise shareholder value. That is at the heart of our service.
At Scrutton Bland, we understand the weight of this decision and the intricacies involved in the process. We are here to ensure that the journey is not only seamless and confidential but also immensely rewarding. Our expertise lies in corporate finance, and we specialise in helping business owners like you sell their businesses.
Get advice and guidanceOur Approach
Selling a business involves numerous moving parts – financial assessments, legal considerations, negotiations, and more.
We’ll Take The Lead
Our approach is built on the foundation of making this intricate process as straightforward as possible for you. We take the lead in managing all aspects of the sale, so you can focus on what you do best – running your business until it’s time to hand over the reins.
Tailored Solutions
Every business is unique, and your sale should reflect that uniqueness. We work closely with you to understand the specific needs and goals of your business. Our team then crafts a tailor-made plan that aligns with your objectives, ensuring you get the best possible deal that is structured in the most efficient way too.
Confidentiality
We understand the sensitivity surrounding the sale of a business. Maintaining confidentiality is paramount to protect your interests and those of your stakeholders. Rest assured, our team is committed to safeguarding your business’s sensitive information throughout the entire process.
Our Services
Business Valuation
Before embarking on the sale journey, it’s helpful to consider the value of your business. Our experienced team are well versed in valuation techniques to provide an accurate assessment and are often sharing their knowledge with other professionals throughout the UK via the ICAEW. This valuation forms the basis for setting the right price and attracting potential buyers.
Market Research
Understanding the market is key to positioning your business for a successful sale. We conduct thorough market research to identify potential buyers and assess market trends. This knowledge helps us tailor our approach to target the right audience effectively.
Financial Analysis
Our corporate finance expertise comes into play as we analyse your financial information and identify areas for improvement. We work with you to enhance your financial performance, making your business even more appealing to potential buyers.
Marketing and Promotion
Once your business is ready for the market, we craft a compelling marketing strategy to showcase its strengths. Our marketing efforts extend to both online and offline channels, reaching a broad spectrum of potential buyers.
Negotiation and Deal Structuring
Negotiating a deal can be intricate, and the terms can significantly impact your final outcome. With our experienced negotiators by your side, you can trust that we will secure the best possible deal for you.
Meet the team
Luke Morris
Corporate Finance Partner
Luke is a Partner and leads our Corporate Finance team.
Mark Smith
Corporate Finance Director
As a Corporate Finance Director, Mark has over 30 years of experience in managing financial transactions for businesses.
James Thurkettle
Corporate Finance Director
James works on business valuations, disposals and acquisitions, and specialises in US/UK GAAP conversion work in the education sector.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What is the best time to sell my business?
The timing of a business sale can greatly affect its value. We recommend consulting with our experts to evaluate the market conditions and determine the optimal time to maximise your return.
How long does the selling process typically take?
The duration of a business sale can vary widely depending on various factors. On average, it may take several months to a year or more. Our team will work diligently to expedite the process while ensuring a favourable outcome.
How do you maintain confidentiality during the sale?
We employ stringent confidentiality agreements with all parties involved in the sale. Additionally, we use coded project names and ring-fenced IT filing to minimise the risk of leaks and safeguard your business’s sensitive information.
What fees are associated with your services?
Our fees are determined based on the complexity of the sale and the services required. We provide transparent and competitive pricing, ensuring that you understand the costs upfront. We do not tie our clients into our process, nor do we charge high up-front fees. We believe in building relationships and personal service.
Do you offer any services for business owners looking to exit their business without an immediate sale, such as succession planning or transitioning to a family member?
Absolutely! We work closely with business owners to create a strategic succession plan that ensures a smooth transition of leadership and ownership within the organisation. We understand that sometimes you are approached with a price and will contact us when you are a little further into the process, whereas for others it can be important to start making plans for retirement in 10 years time. So whether you intend to pass the business to family members, key employees, other stakeholders, or another business we can help you develop a comprehensive plan to secure the future of your business.
Get in touch for a free consultation
Selling your business is a significant milestone, and it deserves the expertise and dedication of professionals who are invested in getting you the best deal possible. At Scrutton Bland, we are committed to helping you navigate this journey with confidence. Contact us to arrange a confidential free of charge consultation to discuss your next steps.