Every business owner reaches a point where they have to ask the big question: Do I sell? Or do I pass this company down to the next generation? It is a decision loaded with legacy, financial impact and personal reflection.
I have been there. Sgt. Clean Car Wash started as a vision, built with grit, long hours, and a commitment to something bigger than myself. But as we scaled — fast — I found myself at a crossroads. My kids are young and we are at a different stage of life. While many dream of handing the keys to their children, that was not the right move for me at the time. The business was experiencing explosive growth and private equity was the right vehicle to fuel that next level.
So, how do you decide? Here are the key considerations every business owner should weigh:
1. The next generation — are they ready? Passing a business down sounds great in theory, but it only works if the next generation is interested, capable and ready to take the reins. Many business owners assume their children will follow in their footsteps, but the reality is they may have different passions. And forcing someone into leadership, just for the sake of legacy, can be a recipe for resentment or failure.
2. Growth vs. stability. Are you in rapid growth mode? Or is your business in a steady, mature phase? In my case, Sgt. Clean was scaling quickly. I needed capital, expertise and a structure that allowed us to expand without burning out. Private equity provided that. If your business is in a stage where stability is the goal, and your family is ready to run it, keeping it in-house could make sense.
3. Financial security vs. long-term wealth. Selling can provide financial security — an opportunity to cash in on years of hard work and de-risk your future. On the other hand, holding onto the business could lead to long-term wealth generation, but that comes with ongoing responsibilities and risk. What is your appetite for continued risk? What does your financial future look like if you sell versus if you stay in?
4. Legacy — what does it mean to you? For some, legacy means keeping the family name on the building. For others, it means making the best decision for the people inside the business, ensuring it thrives for years to come. Partnering with private equity allowed me to do both — continue growing the company while securing the future for my team.
5. The emotional factor. Let’s be honest — this is not just a financial decision; it is an emotional one. Your business is personal. It is the late nights, the sacrifices, the wins and the lessons. Stepping away, whether through a sale or succession, is never easy. But the best decision is the one that aligns with your life stage, goals and what truly matters to you.
At the end of the day, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you sell or keep it in the family, the key is making a strategic, intentional choice — one that sets up the business, your team and your future for success. ●
Brian Krusz is Chief Growth & Development Officer at Sgt. Clean Car Wash
