There are a number of legal factors that can impact the sale of a business and it is important for you as a business owner to understand these factors and take appropriate steps to ensure a smooth sale. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Legal structure of the business: The legal structure of a business, whether it is a sole trader, partnership, or limited company, can impact the sale process. For example, if the business is a limited company, the buyer may want to carry out due diligence on the company’s accounts, shareholder agreements, and articles of association.
- Contracts and agreements: The sale of a business can be affected by the contracts and agreements in place. It is important to ensure that all contracts are reviewed and that any necessary consents are obtained prior to the sale. This can include contracts with suppliers, employees, landlords, and customers.
- Intellectual property rights: Intellectual property rights, such as trademarks and patents, can be valuable assets of a business. It is important to ensure that these rights are properly protected and that any licences or assignments are in order.
- Regulatory compliance: Many businesses are subject to regulatory requirements, such as health and safety or data protection regulations. It is important to ensure that the business is compliant with these regulations and that any necessary permits or licences are obtained prior to the sale.
- Tax considerations: Tax can be a significant consideration in the sale of a business. It is important to obtain tax advice to ensure that any tax implications are properly considered and that the sale is structured in the most tax-efficient way possible.
Here are five tips to help navigate the sale of a business:
- Obtain legal advice early: It is important to obtain legal advice early in the sale process to ensure that any potential issues are identified and addressed early on.
- Prepare in advance: Preparing the business for sale can help to streamline the process and increase the likelihood of a successful sale. This can include ensuring that contracts are in order, that intellectual property rights are protected, and that the business is compliant with regulatory requirements.
- Be transparent: It is important to be transparent with potential buyers about the business, including any potential risks or liabilities.
- Consider the buyer’s perspective: It is important to consider the buyer’s perspective when negotiating the sale. This can include understanding their motivations and priorities.
- Understand the sale agreement: It is important to fully understand the sale agreement, including any warranties, indemnities, or other provisions, and to ensure that these are negotiated in a way that protects the seller’s interests.
In addition to these tips, here are three key points to help avoid the need to sell a business in the future:
- Have a plan: Having a clear plan for the future of the business can help to avoid the need to sell. This can include having a succession plan in place or identifying potential growth opportunities.
- Manage risks: Managing risks, such as regulatory compliance and contractual issues, can help to avoid the need to sell a business.
- Seek advice: Obtaining legal and financial advice can help to identify potential risks and opportunities for the business, and can help to avoid the need to sell in the future.
How to get help
At Johnson and Boon we specialise in the purchase and sale of businesses. If you would like to know more about the process, advice or assistance please contact a member of our team for a chat on 0151 637 2034, email info@johnsonandboon.co.uk or use the contact us form on our website.