How do I sell my bread or delivery route?

Selling a route is different from selling a shop, because the person who decides who may run it is not you. The supplier granted the route, and it may have a say in who takes it over; check your agreement. Begin there. A sale that goes forward without that conversation can fall apart late, after you and the buyer have both spent time and money.

Talk to the supplier early

Ask the supplier how it handles a sale. Does it have an approval process, and what does it look for in a buyer? Does it keep a list of people waiting for a route? Some suppliers help find a buyer. Knowing the steps helps you set a timeline.

Gather the records buyers will ask for

• Settlement statements from the supplier over a long stretch.
• The distribution agreement and any amendments.
• The current store list and your delivery schedule.
• The truck’s title or lease, service records and any loan.
• Your tax filings for the route.

Match the statements to your tax filings and bank deposits before a buyer does. Fix or explain any gap in advance. Our page on how to sell an ATM route shows how a similar route sale is organized.

Be clear about what is included

List what the buyer gets: your rights under the agreement if the supplier consents, the truck, equipment and stock. Say what you are keeping. Do not describe the stores or the brand as yours to sell if they belong to the supplier. Plain wording helps the buyer, and it reduces disputes after closing.

Plan the handover

Offer ride-alongs so the buyer sees every stop, meets the store managers and learns the paperwork. Decide how long you will stay available after closing. Ask your lawyer to put the handover into the agreement.