Can I sell a café that I run myself?

Yes, an owner-operated café may appeal to a buyer who intends to work in the business. They need a clear picture of your role, working hours, earnings and the handover required. The asking price and the proposed arrangements still need to make sense for that buyer.

Does turnover decide what my café is worth?

No. Buyers also examine costs, earnings, rent, equipment and the business they can take over. Two cafés with similar turnover can have very different economics. Your original investment is useful background, but does not determine the sale price.

Can I sell a leasehold café?

A leasehold café can be sold, subject to the actual lease and transaction arrangements. Your solicitor should establish what consents and conditions apply. Landlord involvement and the remaining lease terms are worth examining early.

Do I need to prepare before speaking to you?

You do not need a finished sales pack for an initial discussion. A brief description of the café, your aims and the financial and lease information available is a useful starting point. We explain what further work may be needed before marketing.

How long will it take to sell?

There is no fixed timetable. The asking price, buyer interest, information quality, finance, landlord involvement and legal process can all affect timing. Early buyer interest is encouraging, but it is not a completion date.

Can the sale be kept confidential?

We agree how the opportunity will be presented and how information will be released. Confidentiality arrangements help manage disclosure, but no adviser can promise that every person will remain unaware of a sale. If staff or customer awareness is a particular concern, discuss it with us at the outset.

What fees will I pay?

Fees depend on the agreed work and transaction. We set out any initial fee, success or completion fee and other agreed costs before instruction. There are no monthly charges.

Sell your café with practical, personal support

Selling a café means finding a buyer who understands the business you have built and can take it forward. Your trading figures matter, but so do the lease, equipment, team, customer base and the work you do each day.

ETSC is a UK-based boutique business broker and M&A advisory firm helping owners value and sell their businesses. For café and coffee-shop owners, that means preparing for a sale, assessing a realistic asking price and managing buyer enquiries and negotiations.

You work directly with Zach Dogar, with personal advice, a clear scope of work and fees agreed before instruction.

Zach is a fully qualified business valuer (IMAA, ACCA, IIBV), Fellow of the Institute of Consultants and Value Builder certified advisor, with 30 years of experience as a business broker.

Discuss selling your café

Sell your café with practical, personal support

What makes your café attractive to a buyer?

Agreeing a realistic asking price

How we help you sell

Understanding the sale

Preparing and approaching buyers

Reaching completion

A boutique service with individually agreed fees

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Thinking about selling your café?