Selling a business is a decisive step in the life of an entrepreneur. Over 50,000 business transfers in France were recorded by Bpifrance in 2023.1
The transfer of a business is much more than a simple financial transaction; it represents the culmination of years of work and the beginning of a new phase of life. Yet, a successful business succession requires rigorous preparation, an adapted wealth strategy and thoughtful asset allocation.
Many entrepreneurs are unsure about the issues involved in such a sale. What is the applicable taxation scheme? How does an entrepreneur find a buyer/successor? Where should they start when planning the sale? How should they invest the proceeds from the sale to fit their plans and lifestyle? In fact, more than 40% of managers say they have no knowledge of the business transfer process, according to a study by the CCI France network.2
Our dedicated guide to business succession presents the essential steps you need to take to sell your business with complete peace of mind. We cover the key points of the business transfer process, best practices for optimising the valuation of your company and strategies for managing assets after the sale.
Successfully transferring a business is not just about finding a buyer and negotiating a price. It is a complex process that requires careful planning well in advance. Meticulous preparation not only helps optimise the company’s valuation but also structures the transition in a smooth and secure manner.
Before even engaging in discussions with potential buyers, it is essential to assess the financial and organisational state of the company, identify any potential weaknesses and implement corrective measures. Transparency of accounts, structuring of contracts and establishment of clear governance are all elements that reinforce the credibility and attractiveness of a company for sale.
Too many entrepreneurs wait until the last minute to address these aspects, at the risk of seeing the transaction fail or selling at a price lower than the true value of the company. By planning early enough, you can maximise your company’s transfer potential and ensure the transaction fully meets your set objectives.
The sale of your business marks a turning point in your life as an entrepreneur, and this transition needs to be accompanied by strategic thinking about the management of your estate. While the sale allows for the release of capital, it also comes with crucial issues regarding taxation, overall wealth structuring and long-term capital preservation.
See also: Challenges facing entrepreneurs in France in 2025
At Lombard Odier, we develop a real ‘personal business plan’ to help you organise your financial future and ensure the proceeds from your sale are well aligned with your life goals. This method involves identifying your priorities, be they investments in new entrepreneurial projects, securing your lifestyle or transferring your wealth to the next generation.
Too often, entrepreneurs realise after the fact that they could have significantly optimised their situation if they had made the right decisions before the sale
Edouard de Saint-Pierre – General Director, Lombard Odier France
Once your company is sold, the management of the funds resulting from the transaction becomes a key issue. In contrast to the entrepreneurial life, where most of the business owner’s capital was tied up in a single asset (i.e. the business), the seller now needs to adopt a more balanced and diversified approach.
Developing a thoughtful investment strategy is essential to protect this capital while making it grow. It is not just about seeking returns but also ensuring an asset allocation in line with your investment horizon, risk profile and life plans. Some people may choose to invest in real estate, private equity or financial markets, while others will want to get involved in philanthropic initiatives or support new companies as angel investors. Whatever path you choose, the important thing is to structure your allocation in a coherent manner and to surround yourself with experts capable of supporting these strategic decisions.
This is a marketing communication issued by Bank Lombard Odier & Co Ltd (hereinafter “Lombard Odier”).
It is not intended for distribution, publication, or use in any jurisdiction where such distribution, publication, or use would be unlawful, nor is it aimed at any person or entity to whom it would be unlawful to address such a marketing communication.
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