Selling a Business in Savannah — What You Need to Know
Savannah's business sale market is shaped by two powerful forces operating simultaneously. The Port of Savannah — the third-busiest container port in the United States — anchors a massive logistics, warehousing, and distribution ecosystem that generates consistent strategic acquisition demand. Amazon, Kia, and dozens of major manufacturers and distributors have located inland distribution operations in the Savannah metro specifically for port access, creating industrial services and logistics acquisition targets that attract buyers from across the country.
Savannah's $3B+ tourism economy — built on the National Historic Landmark District, Forsyth Park, and one of the most photographed streetscapes in America — creates a hospitality and food-and-beverage acquisition market with genuine national buyer interest. Buyers from New York, Chicago, and other expensive markets specifically target Savannah for established restaurants, event venues, and hospitality businesses because the combination of strong cash flow, national brand recognition, and exceptional quality of life is rarely available at Savannah's pricing.
Memorial Health University Medical Center and St. Joseph's/Candler Health System anchor Savannah's healthcare market, generating demand for medical practices, dental groups, and specialty services. Georgia Southern University's Savannah campus and SCAD's large student population create year-round consumer demand that stabilizes seasonal tourism revenue patterns for business buyers evaluating the market.
Most Active Business Categories in Savannah
Logistics & Distribution
The Port of Savannah's national prominence creates one of the Southeast's strongest logistics business acquisition markets. Freight forwarders, customs brokers, drayage companies, warehousing operations, and last-mile delivery businesses attract strategic buyers and PE logistics platforms that specifically target port-adjacent markets for acquisition opportunities.
Hospitality, Restaurant & Tourism
Savannah's national destination brand creates premium acquisition demand for restaurants, event venues, boutique hospitality, and tourism-facing service businesses. Buyers pay Savannah premiums that reflect the city's brand scarcity — well-positioned businesses in the Historic District or on River Street attract out-of-market buyers willing to pay above-market multiples for irreplaceable locations.
Healthcare & Medical Practices
Savannah's national destination brand creates premium acquisition demand for restaurants, event venues, boutique hospitality, and tourism-facing service businesses. Buyers pay Savannah premiums that reflect the city's brand scarcity — well-positioned businesses in the Historic District or on River Street attract out-of-market buyers willing to pay above-market multiples for irreplaceable locations.
Thinking About Selling Your Savannah 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 Savannah 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 Savannah — 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 Savannah?
Understanding your buyer pool directly impacts how your business is positioned, priced, and marketed. Savannah's economy attracts logistics strategic acquirers, lifestyle and hospitality industry buyers, PE platforms targeting Southeast port markets, individual buyers relocating to Savannah.
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 Savannah
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 Savannah buyer market. No cost, no pressure.
Get My Free ValuationWhy Savannah 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.
