By Michael Shea, Transworld Business Advisors of Tampa
I was driving to Orlando Thursday when I got a call from my old trainer. He had a referral for me and we chatted and caught up. As always it drifts to business after all what else do you talk to a business broker about? A common question arose, “What is a good business to buy in this economy?” I am not sure why I quipped…same old same old. Stuff that flows with our sins….Patrick quipped “that is your next blog post!” So here it is.
When the economy tightens and consumer confidence dips, some businesses fold while others flourish. What’s surprising—and telling—is that many of the businesses that thrive during tough times align with the Seven Deadly Sins.
That’s not just a clever metaphor. It’s a reality I’ve seen firsthand in my work. These aren’t startup dreams or flashy tech plays. These are gritty, often-overlooked businesses that keep making money when the rest of the world pulls back.
Let’s break it down:
1. Lust Think: adult entertainment, dating apps, lingerie boutiques. In downturns, escapism sells. These industries play directly to emotional wants, not rational needs. And in bad times, people often chase distraction more aggressively. It’s sad but its’ true.
2. Gluttony Fast food, alcohol, comfort snacks. Gourmet dining might slow, but the drive-thru thrives. Affordable indulgences—especially food and drink—are recession-proof. People don’t stop treating themselves; they just shift to cheaper comfort. Pizza, Ice Cream, McDonalds, and the local watering hole where you pour out your troubles…they hold and thrive when the world turns dark. They give a moment of pleasure in a day of drudgery.
3. Greed Pawn shops, lottery retailers, discount brokers. Financial stress drives people to gamble, chase quick wins, or liquidate assets. The businesses built around perceived “get ahead” opportunities see more traffic when money gets tight.
4. Sloth Streaming services, food delivery, convenience apps. When people can’t afford to go out or are overwhelmed, they cocoon. Anything that makes life easier—or helps people do less—gets a boost.
5. Wrath Gun stores, security systems, revenge-based services (yes, they exist). Fear and frustration rise with economic hardship. Some channels that thrive are about control, protection, or venting anger—even if indirectly.
6. Envy Luxury resale, cosmetic enhancements, social media influence. People may not buy new, but they’ll still chase status. Secondhand designer goods or online personas offer the illusion of success, even when budgets are tight.
7. Pride Trophy purchases, custom builds, elite memberships. This one’s subtle. People still spend to feel important. It’s not about logic; it’s about ego—and that’s always marketable.
Why This Matters to Buyers and Sellers
If you’re looking to buy a business that can weather the storm, look here. These sectors often outperform when others stumble. They’re resilient not because they’re trendy, but because they’re tied to deep, consistent human behavior. Critical to business is understanding
If you’re selling a business in one of these categories, now might be your moment. Demand is rising for stable, cash-flowing businesses—and the “sin sectors” often deliver both.
At Transworld Business Advisors of Tampa, we help people find real businesses that make real money, even in uncertain times. If you want to understand what sells—and why—we should talk.
Michael Shea represents the Central Florida Transworld office. In business since 2005, he has established a reputation as a trusted business broker across Florida’s key markets- from Tampa to Orlando, Melbourne, and more. Over the past two decades, Michael and his team have closed over $1 Billion in sold business volume and presided over more than 400 transactions. His credentials include the IBBA Certified Business Intermediary®, and most recently, the prestigious Certified Exit Planning Advisor® (CEPA) credential.