Accredited Esthetics School
Industry
Location
Business Broker
Situation
The owner of this long-standing esthetics school was ready to retire. She had taken the business over many years prior from her own mother, who founded the well-known and iconic company. Initially, the owner hoped her own daughter would take over the successful school and beauty supply business. However, her daughter, also a successful businesswoman, owns her own flourishing business. The owner’s daughter had known Sarah Grossman, BayState Business Broker’s Principal, for years and referred her mother to work with Sarah to sell the business when the time was right.
BayState Business Brokers’ Approach
Selling the esthetics school that her own mother had launched was a deeply personal and emotional process for the business owner. Sarah understood the importance of finding an owner who would care for the staff and the students while building on the success that two generations of women had poured their heart and soul into.
The owner was a visionary and had wisely developed the business to operate without her daily involvement. She had built a strong leadership team and empowered management, making the business especially appealing to prospective buyers.
Sarah strategically cast a wide net to attract prospective buyers for the business that included both the esthetics school and a beauty supply business. The school received Title IV funding from The Department of Education, so prospective buyers would ideally have experience in Title IV funding and also understand the requirements of transferring ownership including state licenses.
The marketing efforts resulted in a highly competitive process with many individual buyers expressing interest in the business. A letter of intent received early in the sales process helped the owner realize possible deal terms that would need to be negotiated and that could further complicate a transition to an external party.
As Sarah marketed the business, the seller indicated that a few employees might be interested in buying the business. The owner believed that selling to an employee would promote an easier transition for the staff and students and would give her peace of mind knowing that the business was in the hands of a loyal and committed leader.
A long-time leader in the business and past student and teacher at the school expressed interest in buying the business, to the delight of the owner. Sarah introduced the prospective buyer to Live Oak Bank to secure financing, which was an especially smooth process given the buyer’s in-depth understanding of the business and its financials. Deal terms were easily negotiated, and the process was fast tracked for closing.
Results
This highly personal and emotional sale for the long-time owner to a loyal and devoted employee who everyone loved was an ideal ending. The owner was able to launch retirement knowing her staff and students were in good and caring hands with a proven, dedicated leader. And with Business Broker Sarah Grossman’s guidance and expertise, she was confident she had made a wise business decision for her future and the future of the school.
What Our Clients Say
From our first meeting, Sarah brought clarity, confidence and professionalism to the process. She understood the nuances of my business and the market, crafted a compelling narrative for potential buyers and negotiated skillfully on my behalf. Throughout every step — from valuation to due diligence to closing — she was responsive, proactive and always one step ahead.
Beyond her technical skill, what truly sets Sarah apart is her integrity and genuine care for her clients. I never felt like just another transaction; I felt like I had a true partner in my corner who had my best interests at heart.
If you’re considering selling your business, I cannot recommend Sarah Grossman highly enough. She is exceptional at what she does, and anyone would be fortunate to have her as their broker.
An G. Hinds, President/CEO Emeritis
