Knowledge
Report: Exits in the UK 2025 – Selling Up, Not Out
Exit activity surged in 2021 as the market rebounded from pandemic-era uncertainty as low interest rates and government stimulus measures created favourable conditions. But what does the current landscape for exits look like? Read our report to understand the recent trends and analysis of business exits.
An analysis of IPO and M&A trends, plus new innovations
This report is a collaboration between Charles Stanley and Beauhurst, the UK’s leading provider of data on private companies.
- You'll get a thorough analysis of the trends affecting IPOs and M&A activity, along with a summary of recent innovations that could bring new liquidity to the private company market.
- As detailed in this report, there are more options than ever before for entrepreneurs and owners looking to take some money off the table or diversify their holdings without completely exiting a business.
- As detailed in this report, there are more options than ever before for entrepreneurs and owners looking to take some money off the table or diversify their holdings without completely exiting a business.
Watch Now: Selling Up—Not Out
Missed Selling Up—Not Out: How and When to Exit Your Business? Catch the full recording of this Times Breakfast Briefing, held in partnership with Charles Stanley.
Chaired by Lucy Tobin, the panel features insights from:
- William Turvill, Chief Business Correspondent, The Sunday Times
- Richard Harpin, Entrepreneur and The Times contributor
- Joanna Jensen, Entrepreneur, Angel Investor & Author
- Mia Kahrimanovic, Chartered Financial Planner, Charles Stanley
Gain practical and emotional guidance on exiting your business — and turning the next chapter into your biggest opportunity yet.
Download the report
Key findings
The H1 figures from 2025 suggest a return to pre-pandemic norms, though against a challenging backdrop.
8,000+
high-growth companies have exited, with acquisitions accounting for the majority since 2015.
4-
the number of companies that went public in 2023, compared to 65 in 2021.
51.6%
between 2015 and Q1 2025, most exits by high-growth companies occurred at the established stage of evolution.
More insights
Read our latest commentary, in-depth guidance and stories to stay informed on key investment topics. Sign up to receive regular email updates with our latest financial insights.
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