Selling a Business in Arkansas
Selling a business in Arkansas means pricing it correctly, preparing the records a buyer will ask for and finding a buyer who can pay and close. Arkansas has 70,452 employer businesses and about 250,682 more with no employees. This page covers the numbers, the steps and what buyers look for.
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
Arkansas by the numbers
70,452
70,452
EMPLOYER BUSINESSES
85%
85%
SMALL EMPLOYER SHARE
250,682
250,682
BUSINESSES WITH NO EMPLOYEES
1,120,356
1,120,356
EMPLOYMENT
$60.9 billion
$60.9 billion
ANNUAL PAYROLL
30,031
30,031
BUSINESSES WITH 5 TO 49 EMPLOYEES
U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023 and Nonemployer Statistics 2024. Counts are employer establishments, meaning business locations with paid employees.
How Arkansas compares
Arkansas ranks 34th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 5.2% between 2018 and 2023.
Retail makes up 15% of employer businesses in Arkansas, compared with 12% nationwide.
30,031 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
Arkansas ranks 34th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for employer businesses.
The number of employer businesses grew 5.2% between 2018 and 2023.
Retail makes up 15% of employer businesses in Arkansas, compared with 12% nationwide.
30,031 employer businesses here have 5 to 49 employees.
How a sale works in Arkansas
A sale follows the same sequence in every market. The business is valued from its earnings, assets, size and industry. The records a buyer will ask for are prepared. The business is marketed without naming it, and buyers are asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement before they see the name or the financial statements. Each buyer is checked for money and fit, the letter of intent is negotiated, the buyer's review of the books is managed, and the sale is carried to closing.
State rules on tax clearance, bulk sale notices and the transfer of permits and licenses differ from state to state.
Rules that apply in Arkansas
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Arkansas's Department of Finance and Administration says getting a tax clearance or certificate of tax standing is a wise procedure for people planning to buy a business located in Arkansas. The Department asks for an authorization for release of tax information form from its Office of Excise Tax Administration and says there is no fee for the certificate. Source: Department of Finance and Administration tax clearance page
Permits and registrations
Arkansas's Department of Finance and Administration says the permits it issues cannot be transferred to or used by anyone other than the business they were issued to. Source: Department of Finance and Administration sales and use tax FAQs
Unemployment insurance account
Arkansas's Division of Workforce Services says that when an entire business is acquired and kept running, the tax rate and all experience, the record of taxes paid in and benefits paid out, transfer to the buyer. The Division says the buyer will also be liable for unemployment taxes the seller left unpaid. A buyer of only part of a business can ask for part of the seller's experience by filing Form DWS-ARK-201P within thirty days. Source: Division of Workforce Services Employer Handbook
These points come from official Arkansas agency pages checked on 2026-10-24. Rules change, so check the linked agency page for the current version. This is general information and not legal or tax advice.
A sale follows the same sequence in every market. The business is valued from its earnings, assets, size and industry. The records a buyer will ask for are prepared. The business is marketed without naming it, and buyers are asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement before they see the name or the financial statements. Each buyer is checked for money and fit, the letter of intent is negotiated, the buyer's review of the books is managed, and the sale is carried to closing.
State rules on tax clearance, bulk sale notices and the transfer of permits and licenses differ from state to state.
Rules that apply in Arkansas
Sales tax and the buyer's liability
Arkansas's Department of Finance and Administration says getting a tax clearance or certificate of tax standing is a wise procedure for people planning to buy a business located in Arkansas. The Department asks for an authorization for release of tax information form from its Office of Excise Tax Administration and says there is no fee for the certificate. Source: Department of Finance and Administration tax clearance page
Permits and registrations
Arkansas's Department of Finance and Administration says the permits it issues cannot be transferred to or used by anyone other than the business they were issued to. Source: Department of Finance and Administration sales and use tax FAQs
Unemployment insurance account
Arkansas's Division of Workforce Services says that when an entire business is acquired and kept running, the tax rate and all experience, the record of taxes paid in and benefits paid out, transfer to the buyer. The Division says the buyer will also be liable for unemployment taxes the seller left unpaid. A buyer of only part of a business can ask for part of the seller's experience by filing Form DWS-ARK-201P within thirty days. Source: Division of Workforce Services Employer Handbook
These points come from official Arkansas agency pages checked on 2026-10-24. Rules change, so check the linked agency page for the current version. This is general information and not legal or tax advice.
What buyers look for
Buyers look first at profit that holds up under review. Three years of tax returns and profit and loss statements that match each other carry more weight than a high number that cannot be shown.
How much of the business depends on the owner
How concentrated sales are among a few customers
The lease, its remaining term and the landlord's consent to a sale
The condition of equipment and the contracts that transfer
Buyers look first at profit that holds up under review. Three years of tax returns and profit and loss statements that match each other carry more weight than a high number that cannot be shown.
How much of the business depends on the owner
How concentrated sales are among a few customers
The lease, its remaining term and the landlord's consent to a sale
The condition of equipment and the contracts that transfer
INDUSTRIES
What sells in Arkansas
Retail, health care and social assistance, repair, personal care and other services, accommodation and food service
Every kind of business we sell in Arkansas
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Arkansas. Counts are employer businesses in the closest Census industry codes. Industries without a clean Census match are listed without a count, and a few industries share one Census category, so their counts match. A sale multiple is the price a business typically sells for as a multiple of its earnings. SDE means seller's discretionary earnings, which is the owner's pay plus the profit of the business. EBITDA means earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Construction & Engineering
6,683 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
General Contracting: 1,720 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,145 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,145 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Landscaping: 753 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 728 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Foundation & Site Prep: 671 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 396 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 319 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 107 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 45 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 42 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
5,845 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 2,382 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 2,015 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 599 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 459 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 349 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 41 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
5,519 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Primary & Family Care: 1,889 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 917 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 775 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 713 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Veterinary Medicine: 337 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 277 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 251 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 102 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 82 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
4,484 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Insurance Agencies: 1,517 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 1,150 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 1,145 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Wealth Management: 484 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 160 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 28 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
3,853 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 1,017 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 900 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 862 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Home Decor & Furniture: 444 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 212 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 210 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 208 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
2,729 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Auto Repair: 833 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 591 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 334 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 205 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 107 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 38 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 34 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
2,349 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
General Freight Trucking: 1,640 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 200 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 172 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 138 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 114 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 62 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 23 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Manufacturing
1,982 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Metal Fabrication: 456 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 384 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 215 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 156 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 82 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 69 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
1,582 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 818 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 281 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 202 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 108 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 43 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Gas Stations & Convenience
1,555 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Gas Stations: 1,386 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 169 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Truck Stops & Travel Centers. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Home Services
1,116 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Residential Cleaning: 471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 402 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 170 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 73 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.9x EBITDA.
Audio Visual (AV). Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Junk Removal. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Pool & Spa Service. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,023 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Compounding Pharmacies: 511 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 511 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 277 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 106 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Hospitality & Travel
883 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Hotels: 717 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 717 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 39 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Travel Agencies: 33 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 29 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Beauty & Personal Care
821 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Hair Salons: 453 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 201 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 201 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 201 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 131 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 36 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Education & Childcare
779 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Daycare Centers: 728 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 51 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Energy & Utilities
728 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Water & Wastewater Services: 235 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Waste Management & Recycling: 204 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 115 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 11 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
644 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 200 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 120 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 102 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 56 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Health & Fitness
581 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 324 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 257 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 257 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 257 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 257 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Senior Care & Living
515 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Non-Medical Home Care: 382 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 93 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 40 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Entertainment & Recreation
474 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Outdoor Recreation: 160 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Bars & Pubs: 136 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 136 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Golf Courses: 127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Bowling Alleys: 26 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 25 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Pet Services
252 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 187 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 187 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
Land & Agriculture
3 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 3 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.4x - 6.09x EBITDA.
Crop Production. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.69x EBITDA.
Livestock & Ranching. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.76x EBITDA.
Agribusiness & Infrastructure. Typical sale multiple: 5.2x - 10.3x EBITDA.
AgTech & Precision Ag. Typical sale multiple: 8.3x - 12.1x EBITDA.
Agri-Tourism & Lifestyle. Typical sale multiple: 2.51x - 4.54x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Businesses
Amazon FBA Businesses. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Online Marketplaces. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x SDE.
We sell businesses in every one of these industries in Arkansas. Counts are employer businesses in the closest Census industry codes. Industries without a clean Census match are listed without a count, and a few industries share one Census category, so their counts match. A sale multiple is the price a business typically sells for as a multiple of its earnings. SDE means seller's discretionary earnings, which is the owner's pay plus the profit of the business. EBITDA means earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Construction & Engineering
6,683 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
General Contracting: 1,720 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Plumbing: 1,145 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x SDE.
HVAC Services: 1,145 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.6x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Electrical: 757 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Landscaping: 753 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Interior Finishing: 728 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Foundation & Site Prep: 671 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Civil Engineering: 396 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 7.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Roofing & Siding: 319 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Masonry: 107 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Carpentry & Framing: 45 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Remediation & Restoration: 42 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Restaurants & Food
5,845 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Quick-Service & Fast Food: 2,382 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Full-Service Restaurants: 2,015 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Coffee Shops: 599 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Grocery Stores & Markets: 459 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Liquor, Wine & Beer Stores: 349 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Bakeries: 41 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Ghost Kitchens. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Medical Practices
5,519 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Primary & Family Care: 1,889 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE.
Dental Practices: 917 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Physical Therapy & Rehab: 775 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Mental & Behavioral Health: 713 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Veterinary Medicine: 337 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 9.0x EBITDA.
Home Health & Hospice: 277 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Vision & Eye Care: 251 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Medical Labs & Imaging: 176 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Medicine: 102 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Urgent Care Clinics: 82 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Financial & Professional Services
4,484 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Insurance Agencies: 1,517 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 6.0x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Accounting & Tax Practices: 1,150 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Brokerages: 1,145 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Wealth Management: 484 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.7x - 4.0x Recurring Revenue.
Private Lending: 160 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Mortgage Brokerages: 28 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Retail Stores
3,853 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Fashion, Apparel & Jewelry: 1,017 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Hardware, Garden & Building: 900 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE + Inventory.
Health, Beauty & Pharmacy: 862 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 4.2x EBITDA.
Home Decor & Furniture: 444 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Sporting Goods & Firearms: 212 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.4x SDE.
Hobby, Toys & Gift Shops: 210 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE + Inventory.
Electronics & Repair: 208 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Automotive & Boat
2,729 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Auto Repair: 833 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE.
Auto Parts: 591 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.2x SDE + Inventory.
Car Dealerships: 587 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2x - 8x Blue Sky + Assets.
Collision Repair: 334 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Car Washes: 205 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Towing & Repo: 107 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA + Fleet.
Boat Dealerships: 38 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Marinas: 34 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: Cap Rate or 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Logistics & Transportation
2,349 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
General Freight Trucking: 1,640 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 3.45x SDE.
Warehousing & Fulfillment: 200 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Freight Brokerage & 3PL: 172 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Last-Mile & Courier: 138 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.76x - 3.32x SDE.
Heavy Haul Transport: 114 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x SDE.
Commercial Moving: 62 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
NEMT & Passenger Transport: 23 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.1x SDE.
Port Drayage. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Manufacturing
1,982 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Metal Fabrication: 456 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.2x - 4.2x SDE.
Wood & Furniture Manufacturing: 384 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Food & Beverage Manufacturing: 335 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.1x - 4.5x SDE.
Printing & Plastics: 285 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.9x - 4.9x SDE.
Construction Materials Manufacturing: 215 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical & Chemical Manufacturing: 156 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 8.0x EBITDA.
Electronics & Tech Manufacturing: 82 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.5x EBITDA.
Textile & Apparel Manufacturing: 69 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.8x SDE.
Wholesale & Distribution
1,582 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Industrial & Construction Supply: 818 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Food & Beverage Distribution: 281 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Electronics, IT & Office Equipment Distribution: 202 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Chemicals, Plastics & Raw Materials Distribution: 108 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Medical, Dental & Pharmaceutical Distribution: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Packaging, Paper & JanSan Distribution: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Consumer Goods & Apparel Distribution: 43 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE + Inventory.
Gas Stations & Convenience
1,555 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Gas Stations: 1,386 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Convenience Stores: 169 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 3.5x SDE + Inventory.
Truck Stops & Travel Centers. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Home Services
1,116 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Residential Cleaning: 471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.6x SDE.
Commercial Cleaning: 471 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.47x - 4.11x EBITDA.
Property Management: 402 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x SDE.
Pest Control: 170 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.34x - 2.90x SDE.
Security Systems: 73 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.9x EBITDA.
Audio Visual (AV). Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Junk Removal. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.0x SDE.
Pool & Spa Service. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.0x EBITDA.
Pharmacies & Medical Supply
1,023 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Compounding Pharmacies: 511 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x EBITDA.
Specialty Pharmacies: 511 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Home Infusion: 277 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 6.5x EBITDA.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME): 129 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Medical Supply Retail: 106 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Hospitality & Travel
883 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Hotels: 717 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.6x - 5.1x EBITDA.
Motels: 717 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.1x - 2.5x SDE.
Transportation Services: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.1x SDE.
Campgrounds & RV Parks: 39 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Travel Agencies: 33 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.3x - 3.2x SDE.
Bed & Breakfasts / Inns: 29 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Beauty & Personal Care
821 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Hair Salons: 453 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.25x - 2.34x SDE.
Day Spas: 201 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 2.8x SDE.
Tattoo Shops: 201 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Massage Parlors: 201 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE.
Nail Salons: 131 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.4x - 1.88x SDE.
Barber Shops: 36 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.25x SDE.
Medical Spas. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Education & Childcare
779 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Daycare Centers: 728 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.39x - 3.35x SDE.
Tutoring Centers: 51 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Preschools. Typical sale multiple: 3.12x - 4.0x SDE.
Energy & Utilities
728 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Water & Wastewater Services: 235 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA.
Waste Management & Recycling: 204 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Propane & Fuel Distribution: 163 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Assets.
Oil & Gas Services: 115 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA + Equipment.
Solar & Renewable Energy: 11 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Technology & Media
644 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Digital Marketing Agencies: 200 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.5x SDE.
Creative Agencies: 166 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.8x - 3.0x SDE.
Media, Film & Studio Production: 120 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.2x - 3.5x SDE.
Real Estate Media: 102 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.8x SDE.
Software Companies (SaaS): 56 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 5.5x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Brands. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Health & Fitness
581 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Wellness & Recovery Centers: 324 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 5.5x - 9.7x EBITDA.
Gyms & Health Clubs: 257 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.44x - 2.93x SDE.
Yoga Studios: 257 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.07x - 2.50x SDE.
Pilates Studios: 257 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.10x - 3.00x SDE.
Personal Training Studios: 257 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.00x - 2.80x SDE.
Senior Care & Living
515 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Non-Medical Home Care: 382 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x SDE.
Assisted Living Facilities: 93 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Senior Living Communities: 40 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 4.0x - 7.0x EBITDA + Real Estate.
Adult Day Services. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE.
Entertainment & Recreation
474 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Outdoor Recreation: 160 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Bars & Pubs: 136 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 4.0x SDE.
Clubs & Lounges: 136 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 6.0x EBITDA.
Golf Courses: 127 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 8.0x - 11.0x EBITDA.
Bowling Alleys: 26 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.0x EBITDA.
Arcades & FECs: 25 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.1x - 3.6x SDE.
Event Venues. Typical sale multiple: 2.8x - 3.5x Earnings.
Banquet Halls. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 4.5x Earnings.
Escape Rooms. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 3.5x SDE.
Pet Services
252 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Pet Grooming & Spas: 187 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.0x - 3.0x SDE.
Boarding, Daycare & Training: 187 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 4.5x EBITDA.
Pet Retail & Specialty Supplies: 65 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Inventory.
Mobile & In-Home Pet Care. Typical sale multiple: 1.5x - 2.5x SDE + Fleet.
Land & Agriculture
3 related employer businesses in Arkansas.
Agricultural Labor Contracting: 3 employer businesses here. Typical sale multiple: 2.4x - 6.09x EBITDA.
Crop Production. Typical sale multiple: 4.5x - 6.69x EBITDA.
Livestock & Ranching. Typical sale multiple: 3.0x - 5.76x EBITDA.
Agribusiness & Infrastructure. Typical sale multiple: 5.2x - 10.3x EBITDA.
AgTech & Precision Ag. Typical sale multiple: 8.3x - 12.1x EBITDA.
Agri-Tourism & Lifestyle. Typical sale multiple: 2.51x - 4.54x SDE.
E-commerce & Online Businesses
Amazon FBA Businesses. Typical sale multiple: 2.5x - 4.0x SDE + Inventory.
Online Marketplaces. Typical sale multiple: 3.5x - 6.0x SDE.
Metro areas in this state
Counties
Working with owners in Arkansas
Business Advisors of America works with owners who are selling a business in Arkansas. Contact us to talk about a sale.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions owners in Arkansas ask
How long does it take to sell a business in Arkansas?
The time depends on the price, the quality of the records and the number of qualified buyers. Many sales take six months or longer from the start of the process to closing.
How is a business valued in Arkansas?
Valuation starts with the earnings the business produces for an owner, then adjusts for assets, size, industry and the terms a buyer is likely to accept. The result is a range, and the asking price is set inside it.
Is the sale confidential?
Buyers are asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement before they see the name of the business or its financial statements.
What should I prepare before listing?
Three years of tax returns and profit and loss statements, a current balance sheet, the lease, a list of equipment and a summary of key contracts.
What is the difference between SDE and EBITDA?
SDE means seller's discretionary earnings, which is the owner's pay plus the profit of the business. EBITDA means earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and it is used for larger businesses that run without the owner.
FROM OUR BLOG
Guides for owners in Arkansas
October 3, 2025
Business Owners
Add-Backs: What Counts, What Does Not, and What Buyers Push Back On
Every add-back you can prove raises your sale price by two to three times its amount. Every add-back you cannot prove costs you credibility on all the others.
Read article
October 3, 2025
Business Owners
Add-Backs: What Counts, What Does Not, and What Buyers Push Back On
Every add-back you can prove raises your sale price by two to three times its amount. Every add-back you cannot prove costs you credibility on all the others.
Read article
March 5, 2026
Business Owners
Buyer Qualification: How We Screen Out the Buyers Who Cannot Close
Most inquiries on a business listing come from people who cannot close. Here is how they get screened out before they see your name or your financials.
Read article
March 5, 2026
Business Owners
Buyer Qualification: How We Screen Out the Buyers Who Cannot Close
Most inquiries on a business listing come from people who cannot close. Here is how they get screened out before they see your name or your financials.
Read article
February 9, 2026
Business Owners
The Confidential Information Memorandum: What Goes In It and Why
The CIM is the document a buyer reads before they decide to spend time on your business. Here is what it has to contain and the mistakes that cost sellers offers.
Read article
February 9, 2026
Business Owners
The Confidential Information Memorandum: What Goes In It and Why
The CIM is the document a buyer reads before they decide to spend time on your business. Here is what it has to contain and the mistakes that cost sellers offers.
Read article