Most business owners think that their business is unique. There are obviously many different attributes that can make a business stand out from others. However, there are some key factors that make a business both unique and, at the same time, make it more valuable in the marketplace and more desirable by prospective purchasers. Just as importantly, these unique factors also need to be generally transferable to a new owner. Here are some key ones:
Intangible Assets
One example of an intangible asset could be a long-term lease for a great location that is transferable to a new owner. Other examples include a mailing list of current and past customers, a popular franchise relationship, a well-known product line such as Hallmark, or a well-established mailing program designed to attract new customers or clients. Trademarks and copyrights are some other examples of intangible assets.
Difficulty of Replication
For example, in most jurisdictions, liquor licenses are doled out by population or on some other limited basis. One can not just decide to rent some space and open a liquor store. Franchises often limit the number of units in a geographical area. Selling certain brand collectibles is a license not granted to just any store.
Proprietary Products, Services or Technology
A business owner may have developed, or have had developed, software unique to their business which is a key to its success. Or the proprietary item could be something as simple as a secret recipe for a food item, sauce or other food product unique to a restaurant.
Reputation
There is the pharmacy that is known all over town for delivering prescriptions or other medical needs. And there is the hardware store that will still sharpen knives or fix screens. Then there are the local businesses that have “just what you need” or that special something that makes them known all over town. While these characteristics make these businesses unique, it is up to a new owner to continue them.
When looking at businesses to buy, buyers should look beyond the numbers for the unique qualities that separate a particular business from the pack.