The Value Gap (often called the “wealth gap”) is the difference between what your business is currently worth and what you actually need to fund your post-sale lifestyle. In a market as dynamic as 2026, assuming your business will “just cover it” is a high-risk gamble.
valuations
Expert, Authoritative, and Trustworthy: Why Michael Shea is Central Florida’s Leading Business Broker
Industry Influence: His blog serves as a resource for both buyers and sellers, offering insights into market trends and the intricacies of Florida business law.
How to Value a Vending Route
Because vending has traditionally been a cash-heavy business, “skimming” or under-reporting can make books unreliable. To find the true value, you must cross-reference purchases:
The Number That Matters: How to Create a Defensible Business Valuation
But there is a massive difference between a “valuation” you pull out of thin air and a defensible business valuation. If you are planning an exit in 2026, the latter is the only one that will survive a buyer’s due diligence and a bank’s scrutiny.
What Happens to Your Tampa Bay Business If You Die Tomorrow? Why Every Owner Needs a Personal Contingency Plan
It’s an uncomfortable question, which is exactly why most owners skip it. But after 21+ years and more than 450 closed transactions in the Tampa Bay and Clearwater markets, I’ve seen what happens when that plan doesn’t exist — and it is never pretty for the family left behind.