Developing a Contingency Plan for Exit Delays

Exiting a business is rarely a straight line. While many owners expect a smooth path to completion, delays can and do happen. At ExitPlanning.co.uk, we believe one of the most undervalued parts of exit preparation is planning for when things don’t go to plan.

Why Exit Delays Occur

Even with a strong business and motivated buyer, unexpected issues can emerge:

• Extended due diligence timelines

• Financing challenges on the buyer’s side

• Legal or compliance complications

• Market volatility or changes in buyer strategy

• Illness or personal disruption on either side

Exit delays can stretch weeks into months, and in some cases, deals can fall through entirely. The better prepared you are, the more resilient your exit will be.

What Is a Contingency Plan?

A contingency plan is a proactive strategy that prepares you to manage delays without jeopardising your business or long-term goals. It ensures continuity, protects value, and helps you stay in control under uncertainty.

Elements of an Effective Exit Delay Contingency Plan

1. Financial Buffer

   Maintain working capital and cash flow flexibility in case the sale takes longer than expected. Avoid large discretionary spending until completion.

   
   

2. Management Delegation

   Ensure key staff are briefed and capable of managing operations if your attention shifts or the process takes longer than planned.

   
   

3. Client and Supplier Communication

   Keep communication lines open but discreet. Avoid revealing sale intentions too early to avoid destabilisation.

   
   

4. Tax and Legal Readiness

   Keep documentation, contracts, and compliance up to date. This avoids rework and ensures readiness if due diligence restarts.

   
   

5. Emotional Resilience

   Selling your business can be emotionally demanding. Prepare for the possibility that completion may be delayed and remain focused on long-term objectives.

   
   

6. Plan B Exit Options

   Have a fallback strategy. Whether that’s engaging alternative buyers, delaying your retirement, or revisiting internal succession, a flexible mindset helps.

   
   

How ExitPlanning.co.uk Can Help

We work with business owners across the UK to build robust, realistic exit strategies. Our approach includes stress-testing your plan and helping you prepare for multiple scenarios.

Having a contingency plan doesn’t mean expecting failure—it means taking ownership of your exit journey, no matter what happens along the way.

Prepare for Every Outcome

If you’re thinking about your exit, don’t just plan for the best-case scenario. Build resilience into your timeline and strategy. Start today at with a confidential consultation.