Stable Business - Low Paychecksmart_display

Published: May 6, 2026
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Looks safe… but what are you actually earning?

Stable Business - Low Paycheck

This UPS store franchise was sent in by a follower — and at first glance, it looks like a safe, established business.

It’s been operating for over 25 years, in a high-income area, with an experienced team and franchise support.

But stability alone doesn’t make a good deal.


Deal Snapshot

Asking Price$375,000
Cash Flow$98,000
Profit Margin16.3%
Revenue$600,000
Cash Flow Multiple3.83x

After Financing

Here’s what you actually take home:

Annual Debt Service$56,376
DSCR1.74
Net Cash Flow$41,624

So after all expenses and loan payments, you’re left with about $42K per year.

That’s the entire issue.

You’re buying a business… to pay yourself $42K.


Where It Breaks

It’s not just the take-home income.

  • 16% margins, well below the ~26% industry average
  • 3.8x multiple, above typical pricing for this space
  • Low remaining cash flow after debt

So you're paying a premium… for a below-average performer.


Risk Profile

And the industry itself isn’t as safe as it looks.

  • Industry default rate: 8.2%
  • All-business average: 3.6%
  • Labor + retail exposure: high

That’s more than double the national average.

So you’re not just earning less — you’re taking more risk to do it.


The Reality

This is not a passive investment.

Even with staff in place, retail franchises like this usually require owner involvement — scheduling, oversight, and customer service.

So in reality:

You’re buying a full-time job… that pays $42K.


BizHub Verdict

This deal scores a 4.3 / 10.

It’s stable, established, and supported by a franchise system.

But the numbers don’t justify the investment.

Low cash flow, weak margins, and above-average risk make this hard to justify — even at a lower price.

Want to avoid deals like this? Run your numbers →

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