Exiting your business isn’t just about selling—it’s about securing your legacy and maximising value so that you successfully transition to your next chapter. The 2024 Exit Smart Report highlights a pressing issue: over 75% of business owners plan to leave their businesses in the next decade, yet fewer than half have a structured plan. Moreover, 40% expressed concern about finding the right buyer, and an equal percentage worried about receiving their desired sale price.

Positioning your business for a premium sale requires at least three to five years of planning. Proper planning enhances performance, increases saleability, and boosts valuation. The earlier you start, the better positioned you’ll be to achieve your goals.

Our Process

Step 1: Initial Consultation: We begin with an in-depth consultation to tailor a roadmap that fits your timeline, business health, and personal aspirations.
Key considerations include:

• Should you sell business assets or the entire entity (shares)?
• Capital gains tax implications and eligibility for Small Business CGT concessions.
• Aligning market conditions with your exit timeframe.
• Determining your ideal financial outcome.
• Exploring phased exits versus full sales.
• Assessing how reliant the business is on you.

Step 2: Business Valuation:Understanding your business’s worth is critical. We conduct a comprehensive valuation based on profitability and market multipliers. This reveals the key factors driving your business value and highlights areas for improvement. Together, we’ll prioritise actions that enhance saleability and boost valuation.

Key Value Drivers

Maximising the value of your business requires a deep dive into the core areas that buyers focus on. Addressing these drivers not only increases your business’s marketability but also strengthens its overall performance, laying the groundwork for a seamless transition and successful sale:

• Profitability & Performance – A strong profit track record makes your business attractive to buyers and has a significant impact on the value of your business.

• Cash Flow – Positive, stable cash flow signals healthy operations.

• Customer Base – A loyal, diversified customer base reduces buyer risk and enhances value.

• Team & Leadership – A capable, cohesive team reassures buyers that the business can continue to thrive post-sale.

• Systems & Processes – Documented, efficient processes ensure stability and scalability.

• Supplier Relationships – Strong, cost-effective supplier connections support operational continuity.

• Risk Management – Addressing competition, technological changes, and legal factors mitigates potential deal-breakers.

By strengthening these key areas, you not only drive business growth but also create a compelling case for potential buyers. This holistic preparation makes the difference between an average sale and one that exceeds expectations.