How to Finance Your Business Purchase in the UK

Buying a business in the UK can be challenging and complex, especially when financing the purchase. There are many different ways to finance a business purchase, each with advantages and disadvantages. This article will explore the most common financing methods for a business purchase and provide tips on choosing the right financing option for your needs.

1. Business Loans

Business loans are a common way to finance a business purchase in the UK. A business loan is specifically designed for businesses and can be used to purchase a new business or expand an existing one. You can obtain business finance from various sources, including:

• banks; 
• credit unions; and 
• online lenders.

When applying for a business acquisition loan, it is essential to have a solid business plan in place. You should also be able to show that the business is profitable and has valuable assets. Lenders will want to see that you have a clear plan for using the loan funds and how to repay the loan. The financier is looking to charge of the business assets, and you may also need to provide personal guarantees and security over personal assets to secure the loan.

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2. Seller Financing  

Seller financing is another common way to finance a business purchase. With seller financing, the seller of the existing business provides the buyer with a loan to finance the purchase price. This can be an attractive option for buyers who cannot obtain traditional financing or who want to avoid the strict requirements of a bank loan; however, it can sometimes be at higher interest rates compared to traditional financiers.

Seller financing typically involves a portion of the purchase price being paid at the completion of the transaction and the remainder being the subject of the loan, with regular principal and interest repayments over time. Generally, depending on the size of the transaction and the relationship of the parties, the loan might be secured against the business assets and/or require personal guarantees.

3. Angel Investors 

Angel investors fund start-up companies in exchange for equity in the business. This can be a good option for business owners looking for more flexible business financing options than traditional bank loans.

To attract angel investors, it is essential to have a solid business plan and a clear strategy for utilising the funding and improving cash flow. You should also prepare to negotiate:

• a specific portion of the equity in your company in exchange for the investment; and 
• the terms of the company’s articles of association and shareholders agreement. 

These documents should outline how you will run the company and the rights and obligations of shareholders, including as that relates to voting on key decisions. 

4. Venture Capital

Venture capital (VC) to similar to angel investing, but it typically involves more significant sums of money and more established investor firms. VC firms are professional investors who fund UK businesses with the potential for high growth and substantial returns. 

The proportion of the equity in your company given to the venture capital firm will likely be higher than an angel investor, and negotiations on the terms of the articles of association and shareholders agreement more involved.

Key Takeaways

Financing a business purchase in the UK can be complex and challenging, but many different financing options are available to entrepreneurs. Whether you choose to obtain a business loan, use an angel investor, or pursue alternative financing options, it is vital to have a solid business plan and consider each option’s advantages and disadvantages. With the right financing strategy, you can make your dream of owning a business a reality and achieve long-term success in the UK market.

If you need legal assistance financing a business purchase in the UK, our experienced business sale lawyers can assist as part of our LegalVision membership. For a low monthly fee, you will have unlimited access to lawyers to answer your questions and draft and review your documents. Call us today on 0808 196 8584 or visit our membership page.