Usually, yes. Most franchise agreements let you sell the business as a going concern, but the franchisor must approve the buyer. Check the agreement's transfer terms before you buy, not just when you sell.
What to expect
- Approval of the buyer: the franchisor usually vets them like a new franchisee.
- A first refusal right: in some agreements, the franchisor can buy the business itself on the same terms.
- A transfer fee, often to cover the franchisor's vetting and training.
- The remaining term: the buyer may take over only the time left on your agreement. See Does the franchisor have to approve my franchise purchase?.
What your franchise could be worth
Franchise resales are often valued on a multiple of adjusted profit. See How are franchise resales valued?.
Your loans when you sell
Your loans don't pass to the buyer automatically. Business loans and asset finance are usually repaid from the sale proceeds. A Start Up Loan is your personal debt, so it stays yours until you repay it.
Your buyer will need finance too
Most buyers borrow. A business with clear accounts is easier for them to fund. See Can I get finance to buy an existing franchise?.
Last reviewed: 8 October 2026