The decision to sell your business is one of the most important decisions of your lifetime. Turning your operation into cash is a complex matter involving a number of variables, many of them unique to your business and to the auto service industry. Additionally, you may be facing an uncertain economy, unbridled competition and sophisticated buyers.

Have you ever wondered what Wall Street thinks about your business? Did you know that Wall Street even cares? Several times a year, I consult with investment analysts to help them understand what is happening in the independent repair sector. The funny thing is that I’m sure I learn far more from them than they learn from me.

With a buying power of more than $200 billion per year, it’s important to understand the thought process of millennials, their purchasing habits and what exactly drives them to buy. This generation comprises roughly a quarter of the U.S. population, and they have become an intricate part of our economy. Now more than ever, it’s important to know how to properly market to, and engage with, this audience.

At some point, most small-business owners will visit a bank or other lending institution to borrow money. Understanding what your bank wants, and how to properly approach a loan officer, can mean the difference between getting the money for your shop expansion plans or having to scrape through finding cash from other sources.
