Selling a Business in Aiken — What You Need to Know
Aiken's business sale market has a genuinely distinctive character shaped by two powerful economic forces. The Savannah River Site — the US Department of Energy's largest nuclear complex — employs 11,000+ workers and contractors in Aiken and Barnwell counties, creating a professional, government-contract economy with above-average household incomes and consistent spending power. Businesses with SRS contractor relationships or federal government contracts command significant premiums.
Aiken's equestrian heritage — the city hosts multiple major polo, steeplechase, and dressage events — creates a specialized economy of horse farms, equine veterinary services, tack shops, and hospitality businesses that attract buyers from the national equestrian industry. This is an acquisition category with no parallel in most Southeast markets.
Aiken's proximity to Augusta, Georgia (20 miles) connects it to Augusta's healthcare, Masters Tournament, and Fort Eisenhower economy. Augusta University Medical Center's influence extends into Aiken County, creating healthcare demand beyond what the local market alone would support. Individual buyers from SRS, Augusta University, and the equestrian community represent a uniquely educated and well-compensated buyer pool.
Most Active Business Categories in Aiken
Government & Defense Services
Businesses with Savannah River Site contractor relationships — technical staffing, environmental services, engineering support, safety consulting — command significant premiums from strategic acquirers familiar with DOE contracting. SRS contract revenue is among the most defensible in any Southeast market.
Healthcare & Medical Practices
Medical practices, dental groups, and specialty services serving Aiken County's professional population benefit from both local demand and Augusta University Medical Center's regional influence. Above-average household incomes from SRS employment support premium healthcare utilization.
Home Services & Equestrian Economy
Medical practices, dental groups, and specialty services serving Aiken County's professional population benefit from both local demand and Augusta University Medical Center's regional influence. Above-average household incomes from SRS employment support premium healthcare utilization.
Thinking About Selling Your Aiken Business?
A confidential, no-obligation valuation. Understand what your business could sell for in today's market before you commit to anything.
Schedule Your Free ValuationYou Keep More of What You've Built
Most business brokers in Aiken charge 10% to 12%. On a million-dollar sale, that's $100K to $120K out of your pocket before you see a dime. John Salony charges 6% — which means on that same sale, you keep an extra $40K to $60K.
That's possible because of two things most brokers don't have: an AI-powered approach to CIM preparation and data gathering, and a 20-year network of serious buyers across the Southeast — including Aiken — who are ready to move when the right opportunity comes along.
And John only gets paid when you do. No upfront fees. No retainers. If the deal doesn't close, you owe nothing.
Who Buys Businesses in Aiken?
Understanding your buyer pool directly impacts how your business is positioned, priced, and marketed. Aiken's economy attracts DOE contractor strategic acquirers, individual buyers from SRS professional community, equestrian industry buyers, Augusta-area healthcare platforms.
Private Equity Groups
PE firms acquiring businesses as platform investments or add-ons to existing portfolio companies. They typically pay the highest multiples and bring institutional resources.
- ✓ Highest multiples (3.5×–5.0×+)
- ✓ May offer equity rollover
- ✓ Often want owner to stay 1–2 years
- ✓ Focused on EBITDA $500K+
Strategic Acquirers
Larger companies in your industry looking to expand geographically, add capabilities, or acquire customers. They understand your business and can often close faster.
- ✓ Strong multiples (3.0×–4.5×)
- ✓ Fastest due diligence
- ✓ Value customer base & territory
- ✓ May absorb into existing brand
Individual Buyers
Qualified individuals — often corporate executives or experienced operators — using SBA financing to acquire and run their own business.
- ✓ Solid multiples (2.5×–3.5×)
- ✓ SBA 7(a) financing typical
- ✓ Want transition support
- ✓ Looking for stability & cash flow
Who John Salony Works With in Aiken
John works best with business owners who are serious about getting a transaction done — not just exploring. If any of the below describes you, a confidential conversation makes sense.
A free, confidential valuation estimate based on your actual financials and the current Aiken buyer market. No cost, no pressure.
Get My Free ValuationWhy Aiken Business Owners Work With John Salony
ABI Certified + MBA
Certified Business Intermediary with an MBA and 20+ years of experience in business sales and M&A advisory across the Southeast.
6% — Not 10–12%
The most competitive fee structure in the market. On a $1M sale you keep $40K–$60K more than you would with a traditional broker.
Complete Confidentiality
Blind listings, NDA before any details are shared, and careful buyer screening. Your employees and customers won't know until you're ready.
Dual CRE + Business Expertise
If you own the real estate too, John handles both. No need for two advisors, two timelines, or two sets of fees.
