Sell My Business: Confidential UK Business Sale Advice

Thinking “I want to sell my business, but where do I start?” Mark Mills OBE DL helps UK founders, shareholders and owner-managers explore their options, prepare for a sale and identify the right buyer. Mark has built and sold businesses himself, including Cardpoint plc, and understands both the commercial and personal decisions involved.

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How can I sell my company?

A successful sale begins before a buyer is approached. It means understanding what makes your company valuable, preparing reliable financial information, considering potential trade and private equity buyers, managing confidentiality and negotiating the right structure for you and your team.

Who can help me sell my business?

Mark Mills OBE DL advises business owners on company sales and exits. His approach draws on first-hand experience as an entrepreneur and on transactions involving buyers including Halma plc, SPIE, UGI and private equity-backed groups. Explore client transactions and read about Mark’s experience.

The business sale process

1. Initial confidential discussion: clarify your ambitions, timing and priorities.
2. Preparation and valuation: understand the drivers of value, risks and readiness.
3. Buyer strategy: assess appropriate strategic, trade and financial buyers.
4. Confidential approach: share information selectively with suitable parties.
5. Offers and negotiations: compare price, terms, funding and certainty.
6. Due diligence and completion: work with legal, tax and financial advisers through to closing.

These are the broad phases rather than a complete list of Mark’s detailed steps. Read more about the process.

Frequently asked questions about selling a business

How much is my business worth?

Value depends on profitability, growth prospects, customer concentration, recurring income, management strength, market conditions and the buyers’ strategic objectives. A headline multiple alone rarely tells the full story.

How long does it take to sell a business?

Timing varies with readiness, buyer interest, transaction complexity and due diligence. Preparing early can help avoid unnecessary delays.

Can I sell my business confidentially?

Yes. A carefully managed process can limit disclosure, qualify buyers and use confidentiality agreements where appropriate. No process can guarantee absolute secrecy.

Should I sell to a competitor or private equity?

Both can be suitable. The best option depends on valuation, payment terms, your future involvement, the team and the buyer’s plans.

Do I have to sell all my shares?

Not necessarily. Depending on the buyer and transaction, a partial exit, reinvestment or staged arrangement may be possible.

When should I start preparing?

Ideally well before you intend to exit. Early preparation gives you more time to address issues and demonstrate value.

Speak directly with Mark Mills OBE DL

Whether you are ready to sell or simply exploring the possibilities, start with a confidential, no-obligation discussion.

Get in touch confidentially or call 01772 688990.