UK Buyer Survey 2024
In April 2024, 229 business buyers from across the UK participated in BusinessesForSale.com’s latest buyer survey. Here we take a look at some key insights and trends to discover what they are looking for, and how much finance they have at their disposal.
Budget range
Nearly a quarter of business buyers are high-net-worth individuals with a budget of more than £500k, and many have budgets in the millions.
Cash deposit
Under £50K: 40.81%
Between £50K and £100K: 26.01%
Between £100K and £200K: 11.66%
Between £200K and £500K: 11.66%
Over £500K: 9.87%
10% of buyers have more than £500K to invest in a business
Is this your first time buying a business?
Yes: 55.26%
No: 44.74%
Nearly 50% of people buying a business have already bought one before, demonstrating their entrepreneurial experience.
Employment status
The majority of surveyed buyers currently run their own business.
Age bracket
The largest percentage of buyers fall into the 45-54 age bracket, but nearly a quarter of buyers are under the age of 45.
Looking to buy a business or franchise?
Business: 58.95%
Would Consider Franchising: 41.05%
The majority of buyers are looking for a business, but a large percentage are also open to the possibility of franchising.
Length of time spent finding a business to invest in
The majority of buyers have been looking to buy a business for 1-6 months.
The reason most people are looking to buy a business?
show_chart
Financial Growth and Security
person_outline
Control and Independence
pie_chart
Diversification and Growth
balance
Work-Life Balance and Flexibility
favorite
Passion and Personal Fulfillment
group
Family Legacy and Future