Which construction businesses sell best?
Introduction
The market for business takeovers in the construction sector is experiencing particular dynamics. Between a wave of retirements and a shortage of qualified labour, certain trades attract significantly more buyers than others.
Not all construction sectors present the same interest for an acquirer. Profitability, demand stability, the level of qualification required and development prospects vary greatly depending on the speciality. A plumbing business does not offer the same opportunities as a general masonry company.
For entrepreneurs considering a takeover in construction, understanding which trades sell best helps to guide their search and identify solid opportunities. The most sought-after craft businesses share common characteristics: loyal clientele, stable margins, structural demand and reasonable barriers to entry.
This article identifies the construction trades that generate the most interest on the transmission market and explains what makes them attractive to buyers.
📌 Summary (TL;DR)
Energy renovation, plumbing and heating, general electrical, carpentry and masonry businesses are amongst the most sought-after in the construction sector. Their attractiveness rests on stable demand, predictable margins, recurring clientele and clear development prospects.
These trades benefit from a favourable combination: structural need, verifiable profitability and moderate barriers to entry. To identify these opportunities, consult the companies for sale on Leez.
📚 Table of contents
Energy renovation businesses
Businesses specialising in energy renovation (insulation, heat pumps, solar panels) are amongst the most sought-after in the construction sector. Switzerland's energy transition generates sustained demand, reinforced by cantonal and federal subsidies.
These businesses benefit from often well-filled order books and attractive margins. Buyers appreciate the medium-term visibility and positioning in a growing market. Evaluating the margins of a renovation business remains essential before any takeover.
Plumbing and heating: a safe bet
Plumbing and heating remains a stable and profitable sector. Recurring maintenance contracts ensure predictable income, whilst loyal clientele guarantees a constant volume of activity. Needs for renovation and emergency repairs do not weaken.
The attractiveness also rests on the diversity of mandates: residential, commercial, industrial. Professional qualifications (CFC, federal certificates) constitute a major asset for takeover. Analysing the key points of a plumbing business helps to secure the acquisition.
General electrical businesses
General electrical businesses attract buyers thanks to the diversity of their mandates: residential, commercial, industrial. The sector is evolving towards home automation, electromobility and photovoltaic installations, offering development prospects.
The takeover nevertheless requires verifying specific qualifications (OIBT authorisations, CFC) and regulatory compliance. Established businesses with a qualified team and solid relationships with project managers represent prized opportunities in the construction sector.
Carpentry and cabinet-making
Carpentry and cabinet-making businesses benefit from the sustained market for renovation and high-end construction. Bespoke mandates generate attractive margins, particularly in French-speaking Switzerland where demand for quality finishes remains strong.
The attractiveness rests on the existing order book and established relationships with architects and project managers. Buyers seek businesses with clear positioning, a well-equipped workshop and a qualified team capable of ensuring continuity.
General masonry businesses
General masonry attracts buyers thanks to the volume of available sites and the diversity of mandates: new build, renovation, extension. Decent margins and constant demand make it a stable sector of craftsmanship.
Equipment in place (machinery, vehicles) and the qualified team constitute determining criteria. Businesses with solid relationships with project managers and an established local reputation sell more easily. Geographical positioning also plays a key role in attractiveness.
What makes these businesses attractive
Several common criteria explain the attractiveness of these construction businesses: established clientele, visible order book, qualified team in place, proven profitability and strategic geographical positioning.
Buyers seek operational structures that allow a smooth transition. The most sought-after craft businesses share these characteristics. Sectors facing labour shortages offer additional opportunities.
How to find these opportunities
To identify these construction businesses, consult the companies for sale on Leez in the construction sector. The buyer subscription (250 CHF/year) gives access to detailed listings and allows direct contact with sellers.
Create a buyer profile to receive new opportunities matching your criteria. The Leez network of experts can support you in technical and financial analysis before takeover. A structured approach facilitates the identification of the best opportunities.
Construction businesses that sell best share common characteristics: stable or growing demand, sought-after technical skills, and an established clientele. Energy renovation, plumbing and heating, and electrical work dominate the market thanks to the structural needs of the Swiss property stock. Carpentry and masonry remain safe bets for buyers seeking a locally anchored trade.
The attractiveness of these businesses rests on their order book, the quality of their teams, and their ability to adapt to new standards. Acquirers favour well-managed structures with demonstrated profitability and clear development potential.
If you are looking to take over a construction business or if you wish to sell yours, consult the opportunities available on Leez. You can also estimate the value of your business free of charge to prepare your transmission in the best conditions.
