You know that one of the classic criteria to look for in a business to buy is that it provide a non-discretionary service. You want to offer a service that your clients really need, not merely want. Well, today's episode sheds light on how owning such a business can actually look. Matt Bauer & Chris Hartman bought a weighing business. American Scale Company sells, distributes, and services scales for industrial applications. Clients need to be able to weigh things for their businesses to work. Which means that Matt & Chris get calls when the scales need service — and during storm season that happens often, and often in the off-hours. End result: the business is 24/7. A grind. Matt & Chris are veterans, high pain tolerances. But 5 years of running a scale business weighed on even them. Matt Bauer in the fieldHappily, they successfully doubled the business during their tenure, professionalized it, digitized it, and there was a willing buyer. So this story takes you through the full cycle of 2 self-funded searchers who bought a gritty business, grew it, then exited to a strategic. But I think you'll agree that the biggest takeaway is the need to really understand what running your target business will look like, will feel like. Are you buying a lifestyle business? Or a "bad lifestyle" business? Enjoy this interview with Matt Bauer and Chris Hartman, former owners of American Scale Company.

redacted