How do I sell a beauty salon that offers hair, nails and skin care?

A salon with hair, nails and skin care is harder to explain than a single-service shop, and that is the point to work on before you list it. Your buyer will ask how each part runs. If you can answer department by department, a buyer has what they need to ask follow-up questions.

Describe each working arrangement

You may have employed nail technicians, an esthetician renting a room, and stylists on commission. Each arrangement transfers differently. Gather the agreements and write a plain summary of who is paid how. Your lawyer can tell you what the buyer may take on and what needs each person’s agreement. See also selling where stylists rent chairs.

Separate products and suppliers

Each department has its own products, suppliers and, sometimes, retail arrangements. List them, with account terms, and say which are in your name and which belong to the providers. A buyer wants to know what carries over without a new application.

Show revenue by department

If your books allow it, show what each department brings in and costs to run. Your accountant can help you split it fairly. A buyer who sees the pieces can judge which ones suit their plans. Our salon selling guide covers the wider preparation.

Tell each group at the right time

• Decide who learns of the sale, and when, before any rumours start
• Speak to key providers yourself, and agree on what you will say
• Make sure the buyer meets those who matter to the business
• Keep clients informed once the sale is firm