For an international buyer, a French SARL (limited liability company) offers clear, structured rules, simpler governance, and stronger protections for minority shareholders, which feels reassuring if you want predictability and less drama in day-to-day decisions. Its downside is less flexibility in profit distribution and corporate arrangements. An SAS (simplified joint-stock company) gives maximum flexibility in governance, profit-sharing, and bringing in investors, which can feel exciting if you want to tailor the structure but that freedom also means fewer built-in protections, so mistakes or disputes can be stressful. Essentially, SARL is comfort and predictability; SAS is freedom and customization, but with a bit more emotional risk.

A SARL offers simplicity and strong statutory protection, making it reassuring for smaller, closely held acquisitions, but it is more rigid in governance and profit distribution. An SAS provides far greater flexibility in management, shareholder rights, and exit planning, which international buyers often prefer. However, SAS structures involve more complex drafting and slightly higher legal costs.