What is Confidential Business Review (CBR)?

The Short Answer

A document that gives potential buyers detailed information about a business for sale, while keeping the business identity private.

Confidential Business Review (CBR) explained simply

A Confidential Business Review (CBR) is like a detailed prospectus for a business that's for sale. It gives potential buyers a deep dive into the company's financials, operations, and market position. The key is that it does this without revealing the business's name or exact location upfront. This protects the seller's privacy and prevents competitors or employees from knowing the business is on the market too early. Buyers typically receive a CBR after they've signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), which legally binds them to keep the information secret.

Real-World Example

The Coffee Shop CBR

Imagine a coffee shop owner wants to sell. Their CBR would include:

  • Financials: Three years of profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow.
  • Operations: Details on staffing, equipment, and daily processes.
  • Marketing: How they attract customers and their online presence.
  • Lease Information: Terms of their current lease agreement.

All this information is presented without saying "Joe's Coffee Shop at 123 Main Street" until a buyer is serious and has signed an NDA.

Why this matters

The CBR is crucial because it helps serious buyers understand the business without revealing sensitive information too early. It saves time for both sellers and buyers by providing a comprehensive overview that helps buyers decide if they want to move forward. For sellers, it controls the flow of information and maintains confidentiality.

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Joel HernándezTechnology

Make sure your CBR is well-organized and easy to read. A clear and concise CBR makes a strong first impression on potential buyers.

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