Market Insights
Selling your business during Covid-19?
Tony Vaughan · Originally published 26 May 2020 · Reviewed and updated September 2026 · 2 min read
Editor's note — reviewed September 2026
Historical article. This was written during the coronavirus pandemic and is kept as a record of how sale processes were handled at the time. It does not describe current market conditions.
If you are one of a number of business owners who are currently selling your business during the COVID-19 pandemic, you might be feeling a great deal of uncertainty…
However, while there is no disputing that the current lockdown measures have had a significant impact on the business sales market. There still presents opportunities for sellers if you look beyond the storm…
There are still serious buyers
Business owners should be aware that serious and well-funded business acquirers have not gone away, they are just being extra cautious. They will continue to focus on and target acquisitions with strong business fundamentals. Although, yes, it is true that funding may be more difficult for some, there is plenty who will still be active and looking to buy a business.
There is a light at the end of the tunnel
Many of our current and ex-clients have been in business for 20, 30 or even 40 years. They have seen their businesses through a number of unpredictable events, for example the financial crisis of 2008. Despite this they have survived, adapted and sold. That means it is important for business owners to understand that these events do end, buyers still buy and there is light at the end of the tunnel.
You have an opportunity to change the tide
COVID-19 has created an opportunity for business owners to prove themselves during this challenging time, a business that performs well relative to others may receive a premium on the market at the point of sale. If you can demonstrate that your business has remained resilient and versatile during one of the biggest worldwide crises, this is particularly attractive to buyers and will give you the upper hand when negotiating on price.
You are not alone
If you are selling your business through a professional broker, business sale expert or deal maker you are at an advantage. You have the added protection of an expert who has already dealt with or prepared for unpredictable circumstances affecting your sale and will have procedures in place to adapt the marketing of your business.
This article is general information about selling a business in the UK. It is not legal, tax or financial advice, and you should take advice on your own circumstances before acting.
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