Before you buy a manufacturing business, you must make several important decisions, including the desired location, whether to buy an independent facility or a corporate franchise and how much capital you have for the deal. You may also want to research how many similar businesses are nearby. Getting started will be far easier if you are not too close to a major competitor.

For those who wish to sell a manufacturing business, help can be found online. Utilize websites that allow business owners to post information about their company that is for sale.

When you have decided to purchase a manufacturing business, be ready to put in a lot of time, money and effort. You should be certain the business opportunity you are interested in is right for you. There are several things you should consider before you get started, such as:

1. All the expenses you will have to deal with, including purchasing fees, marketing costs, royalties and inventory;

2. Whether a franchised manufacturing business for sale has a name or brand that will be known and respected;

3. The number of employees you will need to hire and train;

4. If a manufacturing business broker would be beneficial to you.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Work with franchisors that offer manufacturing business sales

Purchasing an established franchise provides many benefits over starting up a new manufacturing business. An existing chain will come with a well-known name and brand, a tested business plan that has been proven in the business world and continuing support from the franchisor. The company that created the franchise has laid the ground work for the business and you can benefit from their time, work and experience.

I recommend: Manufacture signs for businesses with a franchise from SIGNARAMA. Put together and sell chairs from Eureka Woodworks.

Receive assistance from a lawyer who has experience with manufacturing business sales

Business lawyers have the knowledge to walk you through the details of any contract you are asked to sign, let you know all of the rights a buyer has in a business transaction and explain the various legal obligations you will have after you have completed the purchase.

I recommend: Receive business law advice from Crossan Ferguson Olanski and franchise law help from Michael J. Katz, Esq.

Purchase a manufacturing business that is independently owned

There are websites you can use to find manufacturing businesses for sale in every state. Search through them to discover the type of business you are interested in owning anywhere throughout the U.S.

I recommend: See examples of business for sale on BizQuest and VR Business Brokers.

Sell a manufacturing business

At some point a manufacturing business owner may decided the time is right to sell their operation. They can get assistance from websites that specialize in helping small business owners find someone who is interested in their establishment. The sites work as a manufacturing business brokerage and connect buyers and sellers so they can wheel and deal.

I recommend: Sell your company on GlobalBX or BizBen.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check with the Better Business Bureau for important details and data regarding the manufacturing business for sale that you wish to buy.
• •  Find out whether manufacturing franchises are regulated by your state government.
• •  Hire a certified public accountant to investigate the financial history of any business you are considering, go over the expenses that would be involved and help you understand the annual earning potential.
• •  Consider hiring a manufacturing business broker to assist you in locating and buying the company you are most interested in.