No money or incorrect strategy?

Imagine you are the proud owner of Velo AG, a bicycle shop that has been operating successfully in your village for 20 years. One day, Hans, the owner of the only competing bike shop in the village, stands in front of you. He radiates a mixture of pride and melancholy as he reveals to you that he wants to take his well-earned retirement. But he doesn't want to simply give up his life's work and liquidate it - he wants it to live on and flourish.

He offers to buy his business and quotes you a price of CHF 100,000. You are surprised by this proposal. Hans emphasises that he has confidence in your abilities and is convinced that you can continue to run the business successfully. You feel flattered, but also overwhelmed by the enormous sum.

As you think about possible solutions, you realise that you don't have enough equity to accept Hans' offer. Bank loans would be an option, but the high interest rates would put a strain on your financial situation.

In the midst of this challenge, you begin to consider various options. You think about how you could raise the capital you need and consider potential lenders. But no solution seems ideal to you.

It is only when you think about the relationship with your long-time supplier that an innovative idea occurs to you. You realise that your supplier could not only be a business partner, but also an important ally who could help you in this difficult situation.

With a plan in hand, you approach your supplier and present them with your vision. You suggest selling him an exclusive licence to supply your shop and how buying the bike shop would not only benefit you, but HIM too. By increasing your business, his sales would also double.

After a few discussions, the supplier agrees and offers you financial support. With this help, you can make a down payment to Hans and agree an instalment payment for the rest. As a result, Hans not only receives the required CHF 100,000, but also an additional CHF 10,000 as a thank you. The new business will easily generate this itself over time.

Finally, the day comes when you proudly open the new bike shop. Hans looks happy as his life's work lives on in good hands, and the community celebrates the expansion of their bicycle range.

Through your commitment, creativity and partnerships, you have not only strengthened your company, but also deepened the bonds in your community. It's a story about how collaboration and a rather unconventional strategy can make dreams come true.