Buying a Small Business in Melbourne? 7 Businesses to Check Out!
Buying a Small Business in Melbourne? 7 Businesses to Check Out!
Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, is one of Australia’s most dynamic and diverse cities, known for its rich cultural scene, iconic coffee culture, and vibrant arts and entertainment sectors. It consistently ranks among the most livable cities in the world, thanks to its high-quality healthcare, education, public transport, and safety standards. Melbourne's reputation as Australia’s sporting hub, hosting events like the Australian Open and the Melbourne Cup, draws millions of visitors annually.
Whether you're new to business ownership or expanding your portfolio, Melbourne offers plenty of opportunities due to its thriving retail, hospitality, and service sectors. Here's an overview of the small business climate and why buying a business in Melbourne could be your perfect move.
Why Melbourne?
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities globally, thanks to its strong economy, cultural diversity, and business-friendly policies. The City of Melbourne actively supports local businesses through initiatives such as grants, mentorship programs, and development hubs. The council’s efforts to foster business recovery post-COVID-19 has pplayed a pivotal role in sustaining Melbourne’s economy. Their programs include business concierge services and digital transformation support, ensuring new business owners have resources at their disposal.
To learn more about how the city supports businesses, check out the City of Melbourne’s scaling support initiatives and their guide to doing business.
Business Trends in Melbourne
Melbourne has a large market for retail, food services, and professional services, which are in constant demand. In particular, sectors such as hospitality (cafes, restaurants) and personal services (beauty salons, gyms) continue to attract buyers due to high foot traffic and customer loyalty.
The latest data from Bsale suggests that the business for sale market in Melbourne is currently growing, with significant buyer interest across multiple industries. As of 2024, many small businesses have listed for sale, with competitive pricing, reflecting both a stable market and growth opportunities. Retail businesses and food-service businesses remain among the most sought after categories for buyers in Melbourne.
For detailed insights into Melbourne's business for sale trends, you can explore the market data on Bsale’s insights page.
Benefits of Buying an Existing Business
- Reduced Risk: An existing business has an established customer base and proven cash flow, which reduces uncertainty.
- Faster Setup: The groundwork—like hiring employees and securing permits—has already been completed, making it easier for new owners to hit the ground running.
- Access to Established Networks: Many sellers provide transitional support, ensuring smooth operations post-acquisition.
Businesses For Sale in Melbourne
Body Fit Training Studio – Western Melbourne
This BFT studio, located 23km west of Melbourne’s CBD, offers a well-established fitness business with a loyal membership base and a perfect 5-star online rating. Operating successfully since 2021, the gym features a spacious 670m² layout, favorable lease terms, and sublease opportunities, providing flexibility for new ownership. With a PEBITDA of $273,000 for FY2024 and full support from the BFT franchise, it’s an ideal opportunity for a hands-on owner to grow an already profitable business.
Cafe / Coffee Shop – Keilor East
This cozy cafe in Keilor East boasts a prime location next to a primary school and residential areas, generating weekly sales of $6,000 with 11-12 kilos of coffee sold. It operates five days a week (7:30 AM to 3:30 PM) with the flexibility to extend trading to seven days and offers seating for 40 patrons indoors and outdoors. With low rent at $267 per week, a secure 11-year lease, and growth potential through menu expansion and increased trading hours, this business is ideal for first-time owners or couples, priced at $138,000 plus stock.
Restaurant / Cafe / Bar – Nepean Highway
This newly established restaurant and bar opportunity, spread across two shopfronts near the beach, is strategically positioned to attract both locals and tourists. With brand-new, modern furnishings, a kitchen and bar equipped with appliances under a four-year warranty, and seating for 50 inside and 16 outside, the business is ready to launch. Featuring bifold doors opening onto the bustling Nepean Highway, it awaits final liquor license approval, making it a must-see opportunity for those seeking to capitalise on its prime location and turnkey setup.
Hair and Beauty Clinic – Elsternwick
This well-established hair and beauty clinic in Elsternwick boasts over 12 years of operation, earning a loyal client base with its premium services, including hairdressing, skin therapy, IPL/laser treatments, and spa therapies. With a modern fit-out valued at over $350,000 and no equipment financing obligations, the business offers ample space for expansion, including seven rentable rooms. Currently generating $2,500-$3,000 per week with room to grow, the clinic offers a low-risk opportunity as subcontractor rents cover most expenses, making it ideal for a motivated buyer to step in and scale operations.
Pizza Shop – Prime Location
This established pizza business, generating over $9,000 weekly, offers a prime location with some of the cheapest rent in the food industry. With short operating hours (5 PM – 9/10 PM) and partnerships with Menulog, Uber, and DoorDash, it’s easy to manage and perfect for first-time owners or couples. The business features in-house deliveries, a long lease of 8+ years, and consistent profits, providing excellent potential for further growth under new ownership.
Garage Door Dealership – Braeside
This independent garage door dealership in Braeside specializes in the installation, service, and sales of residential garage doors and openers, with a long-standing family history dating back to 1962. Operating from a 900m² premises with a fully functional showroom, the business averages $52,500 in weekly sales and reflects strong profitability, with further due diligence encouraged. With a new lease opportunity, low competition as an unaffiliated dealer, and the current owner offering training during handover, this is an excellent opportunity for buyers looking to invest in a well-established business with room for growth.
Family-Owned Deli – Inner North Melbourne
This long-established family-owned deli in Melbourne’s inner north offers premium meats, cheeses, and grocery items, along with dine-in options and fresh take-home meals. With impressive weekly takings of $28,000, the deli benefits from high foot traffic due to its prime location and inviting atmosphere. Catering services for events and corporate functions provide an additional revenue stream, making this business an excellent opportunity for new owners to continue and expand a profitable operation.
If you're interested in viewing more businesses for sale, visit Bsale’s dedicated section for businesses for sale in Melbourne.
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About the author
Catherine Mangana
Customer Support
Catherine enjoys generating articles that highlight some of the opportunities that are now available for purchase on Bsale. She hails from a family of ...