In the UK, there are over 1.4 million businesses with employees. Of those, more than 1.1 million are micro-businesses(1–9 employees), and only a small fraction grow into larger firms.
But here’s the hard truth:
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Over 90% of businesses are not saleable.
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More than 80% of owners will never sell, even when they want to.
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Less than 5% achieve their expected valuation when they do sell.
For construction companies, this challenge is even sharper. With around 364,000 construction businesses in the UK, many run by Baby Boomer owners nearing retirement, the sector faces a massive transition in the next decade. The question is: will these businesses sell — or simply shut down?
Why Most Construction Companies Can’t Be Sold
The causes boil down to three core areas:
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Preparation – Many construction firms lack documented systems, financial clarity, or forward planning.
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Perception – If the business relies too heavily on the owner, or lacks a strong brand and pipeline, buyers will walk away.
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Process – Without streamlined operations, documented procedures, and a capable team, buyers see risk rather than value.
Why This Matters Now
A recent LinkedIn study estimates 612,000 UK businesses are owned by Baby Boomers, most of whom will look to retire within the next 10 years. In construction, where owner-operators dominate, this represents both a huge threat (value lost if firms close) and a huge opportunity (for those who plan ahead).
For business owners in construction, this means:
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Either prepare your company to be attractive to buyers…
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Or risk years of effort disappearing without a financial return.
Exit Planning = Good Business Strategy
Exit planning isn’t just about selling — it’s about building a stronger, more profitable business today. Think of it as scaling up:
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Business Plan – How will the company grow sustainably without the owner at the centre?
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Financial Plan – Are margins, cashflow, and records in order?
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Personal Plan – What does life after business ownership look like for you?
When these three legs of the stool are balanced, you’re positioned for a successful exit.
Final Word
Most construction businesses can’t be sold. But yours doesn’t have to be one of them. With the right preparation, perception, and processes, your company can become one of the few that not only sells — but sells for the value you deserve.
If you’re a construction business owner thinking about the next 5–10 years, now is the time to act. Exit planning is just good business strategy.
If you want to scale and sell your business one day, book a discovery call here, or visit us here to see what we do.
