Selling a business is a complex process, but the goal is simple: to connect the right buyer with the right seller. At Merchant Business Brokers, we have elevated this process into a precise, relationship-driven discipline.
Founded in 2016 by Ian Jones and Shane Fox, Merchant Business Brokers was established with a singular vision: to create a superior brokerage that delivers outstanding outcomes for people and businesses. We are not interested in mere transactions; we are interested in successful relationships.
Based in the Newcastle and Hunter Valley region, Merchant has grown to become the known, trusted, and leading business broking specialist. We combine over 30 years of collective experience with industry-leading technology to guide clients through business sales, franchise sales, and mergers and acquisitions.
We are proud to be a long-time member of the Australian Institute of Business Brokers (AIBB) and hold the distinction of being the first 5-star accredited business brokerage in Australia. If you are looking for a partner who offers honest, transparent advice backed by award-winning expertise, welcome to Merchant Business Brokers.
Award-Winning Leadership
The strength of Merchant lies in the depth of our experience.
Co-founder Shane Fox began his career as a Licensed Business Broker in 2003, transitioning into the industry after successfully selling his own business. This background—combining personal business ownership with corporate management roles in National Companies—means you are in very experienced hands.
Shane’s expertise has been recognized at the highest levels:
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National AIBB Award Winner: Recognized by the peak industry body.
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Business Leader of The Year: Awarded within the Newcastle region.
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Highly Recognized: Regarded as one of the most prominent brokers in the Newcastle & Hunter Valley area by industrial professionals.
Together with Ian Jones, the leadership team ensures that Merchant operates with an incredible depth of understanding regarding what business owners truly need.
The First 5-Star Accredited Brokerage
In an industry where trust is paramount, credentials matter.
Merchant Business Brokers set a new standard for the industry by becoming the first 5-star accredited business brokerage in Australia. This accreditation is not just a badge; it is a promise of quality. It reflects our commitment to best practice initiatives, ethical conduct, and superior systems.
We treat every individual seller and buyer with the greatest of respect, working tirelessly towards mutually beneficial outcomes. When you deal with Merchant, you are dealing with the benchmark of the industry.
A Philosophy of Connection
Our aim is simple – to connect buyers with sellers.
However, the method we use to achieve this is sophisticated. We believe that the best way to make a difference is to first fully understand a client's needs, goals, and expectations. We do not use a "cookie-cutter" approach. Instead, we create a customized strategic approach for every client.
We invest in people and relationships. From our clients to community groups, industry partners, and sponsors, we recognize that every client is unique. We provide:
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Honest and Transparent Advice: We tell you the truth about the market and your business value.
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Empathy: We understand the stress of selling because we have been there.
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Excellence: We manage the process to ensure vendors get the sale, but also that buyers are handled professionally and are happy with their acquisition.
Services: Strategic Growth and Divestment
Merchant Business Brokers offers a full suite of services designed to assist business owners at every stage of their journey.
Our wider team includes specialist brokers and industry professionals with expertise across a wide range of industries. We work strategically with clients to:
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Sell Businesses: Managing the complex sale process from valuation to handover.
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Buy Businesses: helping entrepreneurs find the right investment.
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Divestment: assisting companies in selling off parts of a business to streamline operations.
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Strategic Growth: Facilitating growth through targeted acquisitions and mergers.
Powered by Innovation
While we are relationship-focused, we are data-driven.
Merchant’s clients benefit from the use of industry-leading and innovative technology. We are constantly searching for best-practice ways to improve our systems. By combining cutting-edge tech with Shane’s negotiating abilities and work ethic, we provide tools and resources that deliver outcomes clients cannot obtain anywhere else.
Our vision is to always be looking to improve—as people, in our systems, and in our relationships—so that we can be better at getting the best results for you.
Experience the Merchant Difference
Selling a business is serious business. It requires a broker who understands the local landscape, possesses national accreditation, and operates with unquestioned integrity.
Whether you are in Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, or beyond, choose the specialist who is invested in your success.
Connect with the best.
Contact Merchant Business Brokers today.
