The latest BizBuySell Insight Report shows an active but shifting small business marketplace. In the third quarter of 2025, business acquisitions rose 8% year-over-year, with 2,599 closed deals totaling more than $2.13 billion in value. Owners appear increasingly motivated to sell now rather than wait, driven by concerns about inflation, tariffs, and uncertainty heading into 2026.
Prices Decline as Financials Tighten
Despite rising transaction volume, median sale prices dipped 2% and business financials weakened. Higher operating costs — particularly related to inflation and tariffs — led to thinner margins across many industries. Still, deals moved faster than they have in years, spending a median of 149 days on the market, signaling strong buyer urgency.
Who’s Buying? Corporate Refugees Lead the Charge
A slowing job market continues to push professionals toward entrepreneurship.
40% of buyers are corporate refugees
Most are between ages 40 and 59
77% feel confident they can buy at a fair price today
Buyers remain highly motivated, encouraged by increasing opportunities and the likelihood of lower borrowing costs as interest rates ease into 2026.
AI Adoption Boosts Efficiency
More than half of business owners now use AI — primarily for marketing, analytics, and customer service. Most report improved performance, with many refining operations and reducing costs as the technology becomes more accessible.
Sector Breakdown: Services & Retail Climb, Manufacturing Slows
Essential industries continue to attract the most buyer interest:
Service acquisitions up 11%
Retail acquisitions up 14%
Restaurants also saw steady activity, while manufacturing posted notable declines due to ongoing trade and supply chain challenges.
Outlook: A Market Balancing Risk and Opportunity
The small business market remains resilient despite economic uncertainty. Sellers are adjusting pricing expectations, buyers are staying active, and interest rate reductions could further support deal flow. Overall, 2025 shows a market driven less by perfect conditions and more by readiness — financial, operational, and personal.
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