How do I find a donut shop for sale?

Donut shops sell in a few different ways, and the label on the listing does not always say donut. A shop may appear as a bakery, a coffee shop or a food production business. Searching only one word will miss part of the market. Decide what you want first, then search each channel with a few different terms.

Where donut shops are listed

Start with general business-for-sale sites and broker listings. Try donut, doughnut, bakery, coffee shop and food service. Save the searches so you hear about new listings quickly. Some brokers specialize in food businesses and know shops before they are public, so introduce yourself and describe your budget and the kind of shop you want.

Franchise systems and owner-direct sales

If you prefer a known brand, ask the franchisor which locations are for resale. Some systems keep a list, and the franchise agreement may require approval of the buyer. If you prefer an independent shop, talk to flour and supply vendors, who often know which owners want out. Then approach owners directly and ask whether they would talk, without any pressure.

Bakeries with wholesale accounts

A business listed as a bakery may produce donuts for grocery stores, cafes or catering customers. That is a different business from a walk-in shop, with different customers and risks. If wholesale is part of what you want, say so to the broker. If it is not, you can skip those listings and save time.

Screening what you find

Read each listing for location, lease status, whether the owner works in the shop and why the owner is selling. Screen out anything that does not match your plan before you sign a confidentiality agreement. For the shop you shortlist, use the donut shop checklist to plan your questions.