Market Insights with Harry Notaras
Market Insights with Harry Notaras
I recently sat down with Harry Notaras from ABS Business Sales in Brisbane to chat about what’s happening in the current business sales market. With decades of experience helping buyers and sellers across South East Queensland, Harry is seeing some clear patterns in what’s attracting interest, and what’s proving harder to shift.
One thing Harry pointed out straight away is the surge in enquiries about managed businesses.
“There’s definitely increased interest in managed businesses,” Harry said. “But they’re a bit of a furphy. They don’t exist the way investors think they do.”
According to Harry, many buyers imagine something closer to a share portfolio, completely hands-off and self-sufficient.
“They’re looking for something like a share in a company listed on the stock exchange, not the smaller businesses I deal with,” he said.
That doesn’t mean semi-managed businesses aren’t viable. Harry explained that he has worked with investors who successfully own multiple businesses with good systems and staff in place.
“I can find a well-run business that can be owner-managed two or three days per week, but a complete hands-off investment? Go to the share market,” he added.
So what sectors are currently performing well, and which ones are holding steady or falling behind?
Industries on the Rise
Harry has seen continued strong demand in several categories:
- Hospitality – Particularly when the businesses are profitable, cafes, restaurants, and food outlets still move quickly. Buyers are keen to enter this familiar and tangible space.
- Service-Based Businesses – Operations like dry cleaners and general cleaners are performing well. As people become increasingly time-poor, businesses that offer convenience and recurring services are seeing buyer interest.
- Food Retailers – These are still in demand, even those in shopping centres. Quick, convenient food options continue to attract steady customer traffic and solid margins.
- Importers – Businesses that have been operating for years and come with established contacts, systems, and customer bases are particularly appealing to buyers looking for stability and growth potential.
Industries Holding Steady (or Not)
On the other hand, retail businesses,especially those based in shopping centres, aren’t experiencing the same level of success.
“Retailers are selling okay, but not the ones in shopping centres,” Harry explained. “Those places kill margins with management fees. Buyers are wary, and rightly so.”
While some standalone or boutique retail businesses can still perform well, high fixed costs and fluctuating foot traffic in larger centres can dampen buyer enthusiasm.
Harry’s Advice for Buyers
Before we wrapped up, Harry offered a few key points for buyers stepping into ownership for the first time.
“Be diligent with your assessment, but don’t overthink it,” he said. “Sometimes people wait too long for the ‘perfect’ business, and miss great opportunities.”
He believes the best way to build business acumen is through real-world experience.
“The best way to get business acumen is to own a business.”
And when it comes to motivation?
“You don’t need passion to succeed in business. You need focus.”
Finally, on negotiations:
“Negotiate to your terms, and be prepared to walk away. The seller may fold.”
Tags: business owner small business tips
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