The Higher League
Sell Your Business

Playbook

What happens to your staff and culture when you sell

How to protect the people who built your business, and when to tell them.

Ask every buyer the same question

What happens to my team? Ask it early and ask for the answer in writing. A buyer who plans to merge roles or move the business should tell you before you agree terms.

Employees usually transfer with the business

In a share sale the company stays the employer, so contracts carry on. In an asset sale, UK TUPE rules generally protect employees' terms. Your solicitor can confirm how this applies to you.

Telling your team

Most owners tell key managers shortly before completion and the wider team on or just after the day. Tell them together, explain what stays the same, and introduce the new owner in person.

Culture is the small things

Pay dates, holiday traditions, how decisions get made, who people can go to. Write these down and share them with the buyer so they can keep them.

General guidance only, not legal, tax or financial advice.

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