How do I find a convenience store for sale?

Not every store for sale is listed publicly. A good search uses several channels at once and a short list of questions, so you can drop poor fits quickly and spend your time on the few that match what you want to run.

Search under every name

The same store may be called a convenience store, a variety store, a corner store or a “dépanneur”. Try each term on listing sites, and search the city and the neighbouring towns as well. Save the search and turn on alerts, so a new listing reaches you the day it appears.

Ask the people who visit every week

Wholesaler reps, snack and drink route drivers and lottery or tobacco suppliers visit many stores and may hear which owners are thinking of selling. Tell them what you want, politely and without pressure. A broker who handles retail businesses can also add you to a buyer list, and some listings are shared only with those buyers first.

Screen before you call

A short list of questions saves time. Read the listing for what the owner leaves out as well as what it says. If something important is missing, ask for it politely before you invest more effort in that store.

• How many hours does the store open, and who works them now?
• Which services run through the counter, such as lottery, ATM or bill payment?
• How long is left on the lease, and is the landlord open to a transfer?
• Is the store independent or tied to a banner with its own approval process?
• Why is the owner selling?

Keep a simple tracking sheet

Record each store you look at, what you asked and what you were told. After a few weeks the pattern shows which areas and store types suit you. If one stands out, the convenience store buying guide covers the next steps, and who should help you buy a convenience store.