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La Plagne Businesses for Sale
If you've ever sat on a sunny terrace in Plagne Centre, glass of vin chaud in hand, and thought, “I could run a place like this,” then this one's for you. Right now, several bars and restaurants in and around La Plagne are on the market, offering a rare chance to step into Alpine life full-time.
Here's a closer look at what's available, plus some practical info on buying and running a business in France.
What’s the Difference Between a Fonds de Commerce and Murs Commerciaux?
If you're looking at ski resort businesses for sale in France, two terms will keep popping up: fonds de commerce and murs commerciaux. Understanding the difference is essential before you fall in love with a listing.
1. Fonds de Commerce = The Business Itself
When you buy a fonds de commerce, you're purchasing the trading elements of the business. This includes:
- All fixtures and equipment (kitchen gear, furniture, tills)
- The right to trade under the business name
- Licences (e.g. alcohol licence, restaurant permissions)
- Client base and reputation
- Existing lease to occupy the premises
✅ Good for lower upfront costs
❗ You'll usually pay monthly rent to a landlord
This is the most common type of business sale in French ski resorts. You're buying the ability to trade, not the bricks and mortar.
2. Murs Commerciaux = The Physical Premises
This means you are buying the actual property where the business operates. Think of it as buying the “shop” or “restaurant space” outright.
- You become the landlord (even if you run the business yourself)
- No rent to pay – you own the building
- Greater long-term asset value
- You can choose to lease it out in future
✅ Good for long-term investment
❗ Much higher purchase price
Sometimes the murs and fonds are sold together – this is ideal if you want full control and no rent. But it’s also the most expensive option.
A Quick Example:
You see a bar for sale in La Plagne for €150,000. That’s the fonds de commerce. But the murs commerciaux (the building) aren’t included – you’ll need to pay, say, €2,000/month in rent.
Another listing is €3 million – but that includes both the running business and the building. You own the whole thing.
What Should You Buy?
- Fonds de commerce only – if you’re starting out, testing the waters, or want to get up and running quickly.
- Murs + fonds together – if you’re ready for a bigger investment, want full control, and are thinking long-term.
Top Tip:
Before signing anything, speak to a notaire (French legal official) and get advice from someone who understands ski resort property. The paperwork is heavy, and the stakes are high.
Why Buy a Business in La Plagne?
If the idea of living in the French Alps has ever tugged at your sleeve, La Plagne makes a compelling case. Aside from being one of the largest ski resorts in the world, it’s also a year-round destination with a loyal following of tourists and locals alike.
Owning a business here means:
- Built-in seasonal footfall – ski season brings thousands, and summer is growing.
- A tight-knit community – being part of resort life has a rhythm and camaraderie all its own.
- Family balance – it’s an outdoor lifestyle for your kids, with solid local schools and a slower pace than UK city life.
It’s not just about work – it’s about building a lifestyle.
How to Finance a Ski Resort Business
Buying a business in France isn’t just for the super-rich. Many Brits fund their Alpine dreams using:
- Equity release from UK property (especially if you've benefited from rising house prices)
- Small business loans from French banks (you’ll need a solid business plan)
- Private financing or joint ventures, often with friends or family
Don’t forget the hidden costs:
- Notaire fees (legal)
- Due diligence and surveys
- Staff contracts and transitional support
- Potential renovations or updates
Start with your numbers, and don’t be afraid to get advice early.
Le Grizzli – €446,000
- Type: Bar-restaurant
- Fonds de commerce
- Location: Plagne Villages
- Price: €446,000 (business only)
- Listing: View on Cession PME
- Details: This well-located bar-restaurant has a cosy alpine feel, strong local trade and tourist footfall. Big terrace. Sold as a going concern with current clientele and fit-out.
Le Baryon – €140,000
- Type: Restaurant
- Fonds de commerce
- Location: La Plagne Soleil
- Price: Approx. €140,000
- Listing: View Le Baryon on ATC Immo
- Details: Cosy interior, central resort location and ready to trade. Fully equipped with restaurant licence and kitchen.
Loup Blanc – €550,000
- Type: Ski-in/ski-out restaurant/bar
- Fonds de commerce
- Location: La Plagne
- Price: €550,000 (business only – building available separately)
- Listing: View on Leggett Immobilier
- Details: Stylish, established venue with loyal following. Prime ski-side location. Full bar/restaurant setup included.
Ti & Yu: €192,000
- Type: Popular bar
- Fonds de commerce
- Location: Plagne Centre
- Price: €192,000
- Listing: Ti & Yu is listed for salw with MCS
- Details: Known for its vibe and regulars, this is a good option for those looking to run a small, lively business with character.
Vin & 1: Currently under offer
- Type: Restaurant/bar
- Fonds de commerce & business
- Location: Aime 2000
- Listing: View on MCS Immobilier
- Details: 40 covers. A well-known local favourite with great footfall. The space is well equipped and ideal for anyone looking to run a more intimate, food-led business.
La Mine: €3,000,000
- Type: Legendary venue
- Fonds de commerce & business
- Location: Plagne 1800
- Price: €3 million
- Listing: La Mine is listed with MCS
- Details: Rare opportunity to buy both the business and the real estate. La Mine is iconic in La Plagne's nightlife scene.
Le Capricorne: €500,000
- Type: Restaurant/bar
- Fonds de commerce
- Location: Bellecôte
- Price: €500,000
- Listing: Le Capricorne is listed with MCS
- Details: Mid-sized operation with good local standing and all licences in place.
Le Coccoon: €3,950,000
- Type: Chalets & hotel
- Fonds de commerce & building
- Location: Plagne 1800
- Price: €3,950,000
- Listing: Le Coccoon is listed with Oxygene Immobillier
- Details: Unique operation in La Plagne of 4 chalets grouped together into a small business.
Need Help Getting Started?
Buying a business in France comes with red tape—but you don’t have to do it alone. I always recommend these two experts:
Fi Cowx at Leggett Immobilier
Whether you're looking to buy, sell or just chat property, Fi knows La Plagne inside out. She’s especially helpful for British buyers wanting local insight and honest advice.
View Leggett Immobilier
Viv Faulkner-Andrews at Aster Management
From French admin and accountancy to business setup and staff contracts, Viv is your go-to for navigating French bureaucracy in plain English.
Aster Management
Both speak fluent French and English and are used to working with British expats.
Fancy a Look?
These listings are current as of July 2025, but ski resort businesses can move fast. If one catches your eye, it's worth contacting the agent directly or asking a bilingual contact to help with the process.
Got questions about life in La Plagne or what it’s really like running a business here? Drop me a message or sign up to the newsletter for more insider updates.
