The Rise of “Hands-Off” Businesses

by Vanessa Lovie 17th of June, 2025

One thing we’ve noticed at Bsale lately is increased interest around "hands-off businesses". You know the type, automated laundromats, vending machine routes, streamlined wholesalers, and businesses that run under management.

They’re not the classic "roll up your sleeves and work 60 hours a week" kind of ventures. These are businesses built on systems, automation, and teams that can run the day-to-day without the owner constantly involved.

Are they the most profitable business? Not necessarily. But they do give the owners time and a lifestyle balance and the ability to run multiple revenue streams and not be tied to just one business? Yes.

And it’s got us asking; Is this the new way Australians want to work? Especially post-COVID, it seems like more buyers particularly millennials and Gen Xers are questioning the old-school hustle. Do they want to own a business… or own a lifestyle? We recently did an article on the wave of Baby boomers who are selling, and it got us thinking, what is this next generation of buyers looking for?

Is Automation, ChatGPT and TikTok Driving Demand?

We now live in an era where its easy to get information. ChatGPT can answer any questions you have, people are making hundreds of thousands as influencers, people expect things to be streamlined, automated and somewhat "easy". Business owners dont necessarily want hard labour and 80 hour work weeks.

So do these businesses exist and can you buy them? Of course you can.

Take laundromats as an example. We're not talking dry cleaners, were talking self-operating laundromats.

Ten years ago, they were seen as pretty old-school. But now? The automated, cashless models are hot property. They’re clean, efficient, and don’t need staff hovering all day. Add remote access, mobile tracking, and low overheads it’s not hard to see why buyers love them. Especially if they are in a prime location, they can turn a good profit, with minimal input from the owner.

Take these for example:

1. Profitable Self-Service Laundromat – Perth, WA

Price: $550,000
Highlights: This fully automated laundromat operates 24/7, requiring minimal owner oversight. Equipped with modern, cashless payment systems and high-efficiency machines, it offers a steady income stream with low operational costs.

View Listing

2 . Automated Laundromat – Shellharbour, NSW

Price: $550,000
Highlights: Located in a prime area, this self-service laundromat features state-of-the-art equipment and cashless payment options. Its streamlined operations allow for minimal owner involvement while maintaining strong profitability.

View Listing

Same goes for vending machine routes. Work 2-3 days a week, check your app for restocking, and enjoy steady passive income. These are the kinds of listings getting traction quickly on Bsale. It’s not just about income buyers are drawn to the freedom these models offer.

Is Under Management More Popular Than Ever?

We're also seeing increased interest in businesses that are under management. Whether it’s a bottle shop, cafe, or wholesale operation, having a manager in place is now a major selling point. Buyers still want profitability, but they also want flexibility and having a team that can run the show without them being hands-on every day is incredibly attractive.

It raises the question whetherthe image of the traditional “hands-on” business owner being replaced by a new kind of CEO? One who works remotely, scales through delegation, and values systems just as much as sales.

So What Does This Mean for Sellers?

If you’re thinking of selling your business in the next 6–12 months, it might be worth asking if... you could make the business more hands-off?

Investing in documented processes, building up your staff, and streamlining operations could significantly boost the appeal (and value) of your business. Buyers are increasingly looking for that sweet spot: solid returns, minimal headaches. We have a whole article on how to systemise to sell.

So can we see a shift?

There’s definitely a shift happening in how people view business ownership. It’s no longer just about revenue it's about how that revenue is earned. Time, flexibility, and lifestyle are becoming part of the value equation. And as we head into the second half of 2025, we expect demand for “hands-off” businesses to keep rising.

Tags: business owner small business tips