Published: February 20, 2026 at 11:00 am
For many founders, the question of exit starts quietly. It might be prompted by a conversation with an adviser, a sense that the business has reached its natural next stage, or a growing awareness that the end of the tax year is approaching.
What often surprises business owners is that selling to a third party is not the only way to step back or take value out of a company. In reality, there are several routes to exit, and some of the most effective do not require an external buyer at all.
The key is understanding your options early and choosing a path that fits your business, your people and your personal goals, rather than rushing towards the most obvious outcome.