5 Best Business Brokers in Winnipeg That Locals Recommend When Stakes Are High
My uncle’s been running his mom-and-pop shop for years, but when he was ready to sell, he had no idea where to start. I told him the best move is to hire a business broker so he doesn’t get shortchanged in the process.
These pros will evaluate his business, find serious buyers, and make sure the deal is fair and smooth. All he has to do is sit back, relax, and ask, “Where do I sign?”
To help him out, I came up with a short list, which, hopefully, might help you, too!
How much do business brokers charge in Winnipeg?
In Winnipeg, business brokers charge a commission ranging from 8% to 12% of the final sale price, depending on the size and complexity of the business.
Some may also ask for a small upfront fee to cover marketing or valuation costs.
1. OConnor Business Brokers
Address: 2855 Pembina Hwy #35
Phone: +1 204-474-2389
Business hours: Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
For over 15 years, OConnor Business Brokers has been a trusted brokerage firm. They even snagged the Consumer Choice Award 13 years in a row as Manitoba’s top business brokerage, so you know you’re in good hands.
They know how to attract serious buyers, from local construction firms and transport companies to B2C retail businesses. Plus, they pre-qualify all buyers, so sellers aren’t wasting time with anyone who’s just browsing or not financially ready to commit.
We love that their valuation reports are detailed, and their marketing materials make listings look appealing to investors.
As for negotiations, they position each business in the best light possible.
Note that they only cater to small and medium-sized businesses. If you’re looking to sell or acquire a large corporation, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Highly knowledgeable and very professional
“Had a great experience dealing with Brad from OConner Business Brokers in the sale of my business. He is highly knowledgeable and was very professional in the process of the sale of my business. Highly recommended if you want to sell your business fast! Fast communication and always able to answer my questions. Great job and thanks again!”
– Kelly Slon, Google Review
Great experience selling my business
“Great experience selling my business. Despite a pandemic that has very much complicated our situation, Brad from OConnor Brokers has kept up and even found several purchasers for our business. Turned out, we closed the deal within two months!! Great job, great communication, great success. We’ll see you again. Sincerely, Greg.”
– Gregoire Stevenard, Google Review
2. Beal Business Brokers & Advisors
Address: 675 Pembina Hwy
Phone: +1 204-478-7266
Business hours: Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 5 PM
Beal Business Brokers & Advisors was founded by Steven Beal, who spent 15 years in corporate financial management with the Royal Bank of Canada.
We’re impressed with the variety of businesses they’ve worked with. Everything from coffee shops and fitness centers to trucking companies, insurance firms, and manufacturing outfits.
To start, they offer a valuation service, helping owners understand what their business is actually worth and what drives that value.
Beyond brokering, they also guide entrepreneurs in growing their businesses. They share proven strategies, step-by-step advice, and insights that come straight from experience.
If you’re new to the process, their on-demand webinars are a huge bonus. These break down the buying and selling process into easy, digestible lessons.
A downside, however, is their higher consultation fees compared to smaller brokerages, due to their full-service approach.
Most knowledgeable person I have ever met
“The most knowledgeable person I have ever met in this industry. Beal Consultants offers something that is a step above everyone else. They can provide a very realistic view of any business. There is personal accountability in this company, and the highest level of integrity.”
– Scott Toderash, Google Review
Vast knowledge of business in terms of selling and buying
“Well-experienced in Business. He has a vast knowledge of business in terms of selling and buying either a franchise or a non-franchise. He is an expert in Business Rules and regulations. I am really impressed with his business ideas and way of delivery.”
– Kazi Faruk, Google Review
3. Ostir Business Brokers Ltd.
Address: 704-444 St Mary Ave
Phone: +1 204-504-9844
Business hours: Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
With over 25 years of experience, Ostir Business Brokers certainly knows how to broker businesses in Manitoba. Case in point—they handled over 400 transactions worth $500 million combined.
Well-known examples include their success in acquiring Spicers Canada, as well as the sale of Bornhorst Mechanical to Bee Clean Building Maintenance. We believe these prove their know-how in executing deals.
They primarily cater to small and mid-market businesses with revenues between $1 million and $50 million. Meaning, this might not be the firm for large companies.
If you’re selling a business, they offer a confidential, no-obligation evaluation so you can see their approach before committing. Once you’re on board, they’ll create professional marketing materials and use their large database and network to attract buyers.
For buyers, the team will help you build an acquisition plan, research target industries, prepare offers, and manage all the way through to closing. All things considered, we think this is a no-hassle way to secure a business.
Most competent business broker in Winnipeg
“Working with Ostir Business Brokers was certainly the best decision we
made while selling our business. Their professionalism and level-headedness
approach through the entire transaction simplified matters so that we
could keep our focus on what was most important. With over 30 years of
experience, Ostir Business Brokers is the most competent and professional
business broker in Winnipeg.”
– Kathy and Jason – Warehouse Supply Inc., Online Review
Genuine interest in ensuring the best outcome
“Choosing Ostir Business Brokers was a ‘game-changer’ for the sale of my
business. Their team displayed exceptional competence, handling every
aspect of the sale with utmost professionalism. What stood out most was
their genuine interest in ensuring the best outcome for me, paired with a
trustworthiness that made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Their
personable approach made them more than just a broker; they were true
partners in the transition.”
– Peter Posillipo – Finish First Auto Body, Online Review
4. Eagle Franchising and Business Services
Address: SmartCentres Kenaston Common, 1600 Kenaston Blvd
Phone: +1 204-228-6780
Business hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 4:30 PM
Eagle Franchising and Business Services was founded by Andy Kazina in 1997. What started as a small brokerage has grown into a diversified business services company that focuses on business brokerage and franchise support.
They’ve worked with known companies like Christie’s Bridal and Boutique, Corydon Avenue Restaurant, Alycia’s Deli, and Juice Zone.
They don’t just help you sell a franchise either; they guide you through the entire process. Their system is pretty comprehensive—it includes franchise documentation, corporate marketing, and access to their corporate listings.
What’s cool is that they can also provide partial financing for qualified candidates—a big win for anyone trying to get started.
Since they have a heavy focus on franchise businesses, those looking for high-level mergers and acquisition support might need to go with another firm.
Assists companies that wish to expand
“Eagle Franchising and Business Services is a marketing/ consulting firm assisting companies that wish to expand through a franchise model. Other services provided include business consulting, tax preparation for individuals and small businesses, and business development.”
– Andy Kazina, Online Write-Up
Personalized solutions that lead to informed decisions
“With a focus on strategic planning and market analysis, Eagle Franchising and Business Services offers personalized solutions to help clients navigate the complexities of the franchising industry and make informed decisions for their entrepreneurial ventures.”
– MaqQuest, Online Write-Up
5. Catchfire Mergers and Acquisitions
Address: 330 St. Mary Avenue, Suite 300
Phone: +1 204-918-4747
Business hours: Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 6 PM
With over 50 years of combined transaction and strategic advisory experience, Catchfire Mergers and Acquisitions’ team has handled more than 100 mergers and acquisitions. In fact, they’ve managed $1 million to $50 million deals, with a 90% success rate.
They offer a Ready-To-Sell Assessment to give business owners a clear market-based view of their company’s value, highlighting ways to boost its saleability.
We like their full involvement throughout the process, from introducing you to pre-qualified prospects and negotiating your letter of intent to managing due diligence.
Unlike other firms, they have their own proprietary Due Diligence Diagnostic, Catchfire 3D. This system is like a health check for businesses, helping buyers uncover strengths and weaknesses before committing.
Just note that fees for such specialized expertise could be higher than average.
Made the deal possible despite a challenging environment
“Catchfire was engaged by the seller for a company we acquired. Catchfire is unique in that its principals have been entrepreneurs and operators themselves. This experience, combined with their deep Merger & Acquisition expertise, made the deal possible despite a challenging macro-economic environment.”
– Bryan Chew, CEO, Onyx Fire Protection, Online Review
Professionalism, tenacity, and commitment were impressive
“It was a pleasure to work with Catchfire through the sale of (my client’s business). Your professionalism, tenacity, and commitment from beginning to end were impressive, and I look forward to working with you again.”
– J.D., Lawyer, Online Review