For small business acquisition loans in France, traditional banks usually expect personal guarantees or some form of security because the business itself often doesn’t have enough strong collateral on its own that means owners (or major shareholders) often sign personally to reassure the lender. If you bring in support from Bpifrance’s guarantee schemes (like Garantie Transmission), the bank’s risk is partially covered (often 50–70 % of the loan) which can reduce (but not always eliminate) the amount of personal collateral a buyer has to put up.

In France, traditional bank loans for a business acquisition commonly require substantial personal guarantees or collateral, often including the buyer’s personal assets or business assets to secure the debt, and banks expect a significant personal equity contribution from the borrower (often ~30-50 % or more). When Bpifrance support is involved, its “Garantie Transmission” can cover around 50 % (up to 70 % with regional co-guarantees) of the bank loan, which reduces the lender’s risk and eases the need for extensive personal guarantees or real estate pledges.