Ecommerce Business Broker.
DTC brand exits

Selling a DTC Brand

Multi-channel DTC brands are valued on profit, usually seller's discretionary earnings below roughly $10M of enterprise value and EBITDA above it. Smaller DTC brands have traded around 2.5–5x EBITDA, larger professionally run brands 7x or more, and omnichannel brands often earn a 15–25% premium over single-channel stores.

Why multi-channel brands sell for more

A brand that sells in several places is less exposed to any single platform changing its rules, fees or algorithm. Buyers notice. Published advisor data shows omnichannel brands earning roughly 15–25% more than comparable single-channel businesses.

What premium buyers look for in a DTC brand:

  • A brand people search for by name, not just products that rank.
  • Healthy contribution margin by channel, after fees, returns and ad spend.
  • Repeat customers and a growing owned audience (email, SMS, community).
  • A team or systems that keep the business running without the founder in every decision.
  • Clean, channel-level reporting that reconciles to the P&L.

How we sell DTC brands

  1. Valuation by channel. We show where profit comes from and how a buyer can grow each channel.
  2. Equity story. A clear, honest case for the brand’s next stage of growth.
  3. Targeted buyers. Strategic acquirers, consumer-brand investors, holding companies and private equity, chosen for fit.
  4. Competitive offers. A timed process so offers compete on price and terms, not just headline numbers.
  5. Diligence and transition. Quality-of-earnings preparation, transfer planning and a defined handover.

Choosing your exit structure

Larger DTC sales often include part of the price paid later: an earnout tied to results, a seller note, or retained equity. In aggregator-style deals, 60–75% of the price has typically been paid at closing, with the rest over 12–24 months. We’ll show you what each structure is really worth so you can compare offers on equal terms.

Read more about ecommerce valuation multiples, or get a confidential valuation.

Frequently asked questions

What counts as a DTC brand?

A consumer brand that owns its products and sells directly to customers, typically through its own website, often alongside Amazon, TikTok Shop, wholesale or retail.

Should I use SDE or EBITDA to value my brand?

Smaller, owner-run businesses are usually valued on SDE, which adds back the owner's salary and personal expenses. Larger brands with a management team are valued on EBITDA. The right measure depends on who will run the business after the sale.

Does retail distribution increase the value?

Often, because it diversifies revenue. But buyers check retail margins, chargebacks and payment terms carefully, so the numbers need to hold up.

Find out what your brand is worth

A confidential valuation from founders who have operated and sold ecommerce businesses. No upfront fees.

Confidential. We never share your details or your brand name without your permission.