Hello folks,
I have been reading some old threads on this scenario but was hoping to pick some brains , and ask for some up to date advice regarding the selling of a business.
I am keen to know if other owners have packaged up and sold an Arb outfit, and really to get a handle on how realistic the idea is, or not - as the case may be....
My situation - The business has been running in the East of England for 6 years, there are 4 members of staff on books, and a subbie climber and bookeeper / admin person. 4 x Vehicles, 8 " chipper, AVANT loader, tipping trailer, 2 x Red diesel bowsers, Telehandler JCB 531 - 70, 3 x 40 ft shipping containers, 1 x 20 ft container, 1 x workshop, 22t log splitter, GRCS, rigging kits, climbing kits, 3 top handled saws, 4 ground saws assorted sizes, 3 climbing kits, 2 sets hedgecutters, 1 polesaw, backpack blower, handheld blower.
Logs and chip regularly sold for biomass.
Large customer base, but no contracts in place of any kind, numerous facebook and google 5 star reviews, professional website, and all advertising bases covered locally.
At time of writing, circa 18.5k worth of work booked into diary, diary remains busy year round with at least 3 - 4 weeks in at all times.
Turnover is looking to be in excess of 200 k this year. Last year profits before tax were approx 90k. 20k in business bank account at all times.
I have spent years and blood, sweat and tears building the business, but have reached a point at which I no longer want the pressure and would like to capitalise on the hard work invested. I feel that the business has some worth to somebody, but wonder quite how to go about extricating myself from the business model. At worst, I could dismantle and sell in component parts, which would generate some coin, BUT it would be a shame to see the company fizzle out. In an ideal world, I would sell the business as a going concern to an interested party - it strikes me that another tree surgeon looking to walk into a well oiled and fully running set up would be the way to go.
If any one has advice, or has been in a similar position and could share their experience, I would be appreciative.
Thanks in advance.....