The Sussex Business Market in 2026
The business transfer market in Sussex has shown remarkable resilience over recent years. Despite broader economic uncertainties, demand from buyers remains strong, particularly for well-established businesses with secure leases and demonstrable profitability. Brighton and Hove continues to attract entrepreneurs drawn by the city's vibrant culture, diverse economy and strong consumer spending.
Based on our experience at Watkins Commercial and the enquiries we receive daily, here are the five business sectors we believe offer the best opportunities for buyers in Sussex in 2026.
1. Cafes and Coffee Shops
Brighton's cafe culture shows no signs of slowing down. The city's residents and visitors have an insatiable appetite for quality coffee, brunch and casual dining. Independent cafes continue to thrive alongside the chains, particularly those offering a distinctive atmosphere, locally sourced ingredients or specialist dietary options.
Why now? Consumer spending on eating out has recovered strongly, and the continued growth of remote working means weekday trade in neighbourhood cafes remains buoyant. Well-located cafes with a loyal following typically sell quickly when they come to market.
What to look for: A lease with at least 10 years remaining, a strong Google and TripAdvisor rating, evidence of consistent turnover, and a premises with adequate extraction and planning consent for hot food preparation.
Typical price range: £40,000 to £150,000 depending on size, location and turnover.
2. Takeaways and Fast Food
The takeaway sector continues to benefit from the growth of delivery platforms such as Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats. A well-run takeaway in a strong location can generate impressive turnover relative to its size, and the operating model is straightforward for owner-operators.
Why now? Delivery-based ordering has become a permanent part of consumer behaviour, not a temporary trend. Takeaways that have embraced online ordering and delivery platforms alongside traditional walk-in trade are seeing strong growth.
What to look for: A3/A5 planning consent, good extraction systems, proximity to residential areas with limited direct competition, and strong online ratings. Check the commission rates charged by delivery platforms, as these can significantly impact margins.
Typical price range: £30,000 to £120,000.
3. Hair and Beauty Salons
The hair and beauty sector remains one of the most active in the business transfer market. These businesses benefit from regular, repeat custom and are relatively recession-resistant. Brighton and Hove's image-conscious population provides a strong and loyal client base.
Why now? The sector has fully recovered from pandemic-related disruption, and demand for specialist treatments, particularly in skincare and aesthetics, continues to grow. Salons with a strong social media presence and online booking capability are especially attractive to buyers.
What to look for: A well-maintained, modern fit-out; a reliable team of employed stylists or therapists (as opposed to chair renters, who may leave); a strong booking system; and a lease that permits the full range of beauty treatments.
Typical price range: £25,000 to £100,000.
4. Convenience Retail and Newsagents
While the retail sector has faced well-documented challenges, convenience stores and newsagents continue to perform well, particularly those offering a broad product range including off-licence, lottery, PayPoint and parcel services. The shift towards "little and often" shopping has benefited smaller, neighbourhood stores.
Why now? Major symbol groups such as Nisa, Londis and Premier offer competitive buying terms and marketing support that help independent retailers compete effectively. The addition of services like parcel collection and bill payment drives regular footfall.
What to look for: A strong neighbourhood location away from supermarket competition, an off-licence, lottery terminal and PayPoint, consistent turnover evidenced through EPOS data, and a premises large enough to stock a viable range.
Typical price range: £50,000 to £200,000.
5. Hotels, Guest Houses and B&Bs
Brighton remains one of the UK's top leisure destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year for conferences, festivals, stag and hen weekends, and general tourism. The hospitality sector in the city continues to perform strongly, with occupancy rates well above the national average.
Why now? The staycation trend, while moderating from its pandemic peak, has established a higher baseline of domestic tourism. Brighton's year-round calendar of events, from the Brighton Festival to Pride, provides consistent demand. Properties with sea views or a central location command premium room rates.
What to look for: A premises in good condition with modern en-suite bathrooms, a strong presence on Booking.com, Expedia and Google, evidence of consistent occupancy rates, and appropriate fire safety and licensing documentation. Consider whether the property is freehold or leasehold, as freehold hotels and guest houses command significantly higher prices but offer greater long-term value.
Typical price range: £150,000 to £750,000 for leasehold; significantly more for freehold.
Next Steps
If any of these sectors interest you, we encourage you to register with Watkins Commercial. We regularly handle businesses in all five categories across Brighton, Hove and the wider Sussex area. Many of our best opportunities are sold confidentially and never publicly advertised, so registering with us ensures you hear about suitable businesses as soon as they become available. Call 01273 709090 or email agency@watkinscom.co.uk to start your search.