Is 2026 the Year to Buy or Sell a Business

Are you looking to grow your business through acquisition? Perhaps you're approaching retirement and planning to sell. Or maybe you're simply evaluating what the next stage of your business should look like. With interest rates shifting, demographics changing, and markets continuing to evolve, 2026 may present new opportunities for business transitions across the region. Understanding the different dynamics at play can help you decide whether or not it's the right time to make a move.

A generational shift in business ownership

Across the United States, a significant number of small businesses are owned by Baby Boomers who are nearing retirement¹. In Ohio, studies show that more than half of businesses are owned by individuals age 55 or older², meaning many companies will likely face ownership decisions in the coming years. This trend affects industries that shape much of Mid-Ohio's economy, including manufacturing and fabrication shops, construction and skilled trades companies, professional service firms, and independent retail and local service businesses.

For our local communities, these transitions matter. Small businesses represent 99.6% of all businesses in Ohio and employ nearly 44% of the workforce, making them a central part of the state's economic stability³.

Whether a business closes, transfers to a new owner, or grows through acquisition can have a real impact on jobs, local supply chains, and regional economies.

Market conditions shaping decisions in 2026

A variety of issues affect whether the time is right to buy or sell a business. Owners typically weigh financial conditions, business performance, and personal goals at the same time. Some key considerations include interest rates, business valuations, cash flow trends, workforce availability, and personal or succession timelines.

While no one can perfectly predict market conditions, understanding how these factors interact can help owners evaluate whether the timing feels right. For many owners, the first step is simply reviewing financial statements, looking at the strength of the leadership team, and thinking through long-term succession goals.

While these trends play out at a national level, ownership transitions often look very different from one community to the next.

What transitions can look like locally

Across Mid-Ohio, ownership transitions take many forms.

For example, a family-owned manufacturing shop in Delaware County may transition to a second generation of leadership or sell to a regional competitor. A local HVAC or construction company may sell to a younger entrepreneur looking for an established customer base. Professional practices such as accounting firms or dental offices may gradually transfer ownership to younger partners. In some cases, longtime employees purchase the company.

What acquisitions can look like locally

Some companies choose acquisition as a strategic path to growth. A contractor might acquire a specialty trade firm. A manufacturer may purchase a supplier to help expand production. These opportunities become more common as older owners retire and younger entrepreneurs look for established companies to build upon.

Smart transitions can strengthen businesses and communities

Many of the companies that shape Mid-Ohio communities have been built over decades of hard work and commitment. When those businesses transition successfully, they often continue supporting local employment, investing in regional supply chains, and contributing to the broader economy.

Whether a business stays within a family, transitions to employees, or is acquired by another company, thoughtful planning helps ensure the business remains strong.

If you are beginning to think about buying, selling, or preparing your business for a future transition, having the right financial plan in place can help make the process smoother. Our team at FCNB works with businesses across Mid-Ohio to think through financing, cash flow planning, and long-term strategy as companies evolve.

1) https://www.housingwire.com/articles/baby-boomer-retirement-small-business-transfers/
2) https://bdblaw.com/the-clock-is-ticking-why-many-business-owners-need-to-start-succession-planning-yesterday/
3) https://greatercle.com/blog/gcp-news/small-business-week-celebrating-ohio-s-entrepreneurs/