What does it really take to sell a business? How can owners prepare for one of the biggest decisions of their lives? And why does the business brokerage industry have such a mixed reputation?
These were just some of the questions explored when Cameron Young, Partner of our Edinburgh Office, joined Craig Alexander Rattray on the popular Know Your Numbers podcast.
In an honest and insightful conversation, Cameron shared his journey from growing up in a family business to successfully selling it, before stepping into the world of business brokerage to help other owners navigate their own exits.
Cameron’s story begins in Lesmahagow, where his family ran a wedding stationery business before transforming it into Cake Stuff, a leading online supplier for professional cake decorators.
“I grew up in the family business,” Cameron recalled. “Even at the dinner table, it was always part of our lives. I hated school, but I loved working in the business, helping with everything from packing orders to digital marketing.”
After studying Law and Business at university – where he surprisingly excelled, winning the prestigious Court Medal – Cameron returned to help the family scale the business further.
By 2020, Cake Stuff had become a major player in its market, and when a competitor approached them about a potential merger, Cameron found himself leading negotiations for the first time.
Like many owners, Cameron initially tried to handle the sale himself. But the process was draining and time-consuming.
“I just had this panic lightbulb moment one night – what if this is all just a distraction technique from my competitor? What if they don’t actually want to buy, and I’m losing focus on the business?”
That’s when Cameron realised he needed experienced support. His father-in-law introduced him to Business Partnership, and it was actually myself that went to visit him and his family.
“Raymond was in our boardroom the next day,” Cameron said. “Straight away we knew he was the right person to guide us. He took over negotiations, brought in the right legal and accounting team, and let us get back to running the business. That last quarter before completion ended up being our best ever.”
The sale was successfully completed, allowing Cameron to move into a transition role before eventually stepping away.
It was this experience – seeing the good, the bad, and the ugly of the business sales world – that inspired Cameron to join Business Partnership.
“The business brokerage industry has a terrible reputation in some circles,” Cameron admitted. “There are too many cowboys overvaluing businesses just to win the listing, taking big upfront fees, and then failing to deliver.”
Business Partnership takes a very different approach.
“We’re here to give realistic valuations, honest advice, and personal support. Sometimes that means telling a client they’re not ready to sell – and showing them how to get there instead of taking their money upfront. It’s about integrity and transparency.”
With 11 regional offices across the UK, Business Partnership prides itself on offering local, personal service while sharing national expertise. Cameron and the rest of our team are on a mission to raise industry standards, providing clear resources for owners considering an exit.
Towards the end of the podcast, Craig asked Cameron to share his three key tips for any business owner thinking about selling. Here’s what he said:
Craig summed it up perfectly during the show:
“What makes Business Partnership different is honesty, transparency, and realistic expectations. You’re changing how people see this industry – and that’s exactly what’s needed.”
For Cameron, joining Business Partnership felt like the perfect next step:
“I’ve been on the other side of the table. I know how stressful it can be. Now, I want to make the process clearer, fairer, and better for other owners.”
Listen to Cameron’s episode of the Know Your Numbers podcast with Craig Alexander Rattray – it can be found on all usual podcast platforms:
➡️ Spotify
➡️ Apple Podcasts
➡️ Amazon Music, PodBean & more
➡️ Just ask Alexa: “Play Know Your Numbers Podcast”
Whether you’re selling, buying, or planning for the future, Business Partnership is here to help. Contact us today to speak with your local Regional Partner and start your journey toward success.
Whether you’re selling, buying, or planning for the future, Business Partnership is here to help. Contact us today to speak with your local Regional Partner and start your journey toward success.