Franchising continues to expand across a number of the sectors in which Christie & Co operate. There are now over 48,000 franchised businesses trading throughout the UK, an increase of 25% in 10 years. Our 80 plus years of expertise is invaluable when it comes to franchising where the established nature of the business is one of the most important factors. Whether you are selling, buying or require valuation of a franchise business then our in-depth knowledge of the fundamentals that makes it a success are key in your decision making.

What is a franchise?

Opening a new business can be a daunting task, and one full of risk, with hopefully rewards at the end of it. Taking a Franchise can mitigate the risk. Franchisees will gain the benefits of being part of a larger operation that has an established brand in its sector, marketing support, purchasing power and training to help turn their investment into a profitable enterprise quickly.

A Franchise will normally be for a term of 5 years and the franchisee pays an initial fee at the outset and then an ongoing monthly fee which is usually a fixed amount or a percentage of turnover. In return, the owner of the brand (the franchisor), provides everything they need to start and run their business successfully.

The provision of ongoing support is a vital element. Whilst the franchisee is the owner of the business, it is the franchisor’s system and brand that the franchisee is operating under, so it is in their interest to constantly maintain and improve the business.

Sell A Franchise: Contact Our Franchise Resale Experts

At Christie & Co, we understand that selling a franchise isn’t just a transaction; it's a strategic decision. Our team of seasoned franchise resale experts is here to guide you through the process with unrivalled expertise.

With a deep understanding of the franchising industry and a vast network of potential buyers, we’ll help you achieve a seamless and profitable franchise sale. Whether you're a franchisee looking to exit your business or a franchisor seeking to assist your franchisees in selling, we offer tailored solutions to meet your unique needs.

Contact a Christie & Co. business broker today to begin your journey towards a successful franchise resale. Your franchise's future is in capable hands with Christie & Co.

Selling a franchise in the UK

Selling a franchise business can be a strategic move for various reasons. Perhaps you're looking to explore new opportunities, retire, or shift your focus to other ventures. Selling your franchised business can provide the capital needed for fresh endeavours or offer a well-deserved retirement fund. However, it's essential to navigate this process carefully.

One potential pitfall in selling a franchise is the franchise agreement itself. These legally binding contracts often include clauses that require franchisors' approval for the transfer of ownership. Therefore, it's crucial to thoroughly review your franchise agreement and work closely with a business broker experienced in franchise resales. 

Another consideration is the stamp duty land tax (SDLT), which may apply to the sale of the franchise's physical assets. SDLT can have financial implications, so it's advisable to seek professional guidance to ensure compliance with income tax regulations.

When listing your franchised business, target prospective buyers who may be existing franchisees within the same network. They are already familiar with the brand and operations, making the transition smoother.

Selling a franchise offers opportunities and challenges. With careful planning and the right support, you can make the process seamless and maximise the return on your franchised business investment.

Our franchise success stories

As a franchisee we have successfully sold groups of existing branded franchises to either existing franchisees or new entrants looking to gain a foothold through the purchase of an existing portfolio of successful franchises. Invariably in most cases we have created a competitive marketplace so helping secure the best possible price.

Our expertise also crosses into valuations, either of the business, property, or investment as well as lease advisory work, rent reviews and arbitration.

Successes in these areas include:

• Sale of a company trading 27 Pizza Hut Delivery franchises in the Northwest & Midlands
• Securing a new franchisee for 31 Pizza Hut Delivery sites operated by YUM!
• Sourcing new multi-site franchisees for expanding brand Sushi Shop for European franchisors AmRest
• Site finding and franchisee search for YUM! seeking new delivery stores
• Advisory and valuations of two packages of 29 various KFC sites for operators around the UK
• Valuation of “High Street” McDonalds and KFC sites for investment purchases
• Acquisition of a site on behalf of a leading franchisee for a new KFC franchise in Fleet Street London
• Sale of Subway franchises sites, both individually and as groups
• Valuation of Burger King, Costa Coffee, Domino’s Pizza, Greggs, KFC, McDonalds, Starbucks and Subway franchises for funding and sale purposes.

Talk to our franchise business specialists

With a profound understanding of the franchise businesses, a wide-reaching network of potential buyers, and comprehensive knowledge of the legal and financial aspects involved, we're well-equipped to guide you through every step of the process. Selling a franchise doesn't have to be daunting when you have us by your side.

Contact us today, and let's work together to achieve a seamless and profitable franchise resale. Your next adventure awaits, and we're here to make it a reality.