STEP FOUR: Managing a Mature Business You have grown the business and you are known in the marketplace and the community. You have loyal customers and a significant high volume of repeat business. There are still challenges to meet and decisions to make. Listed below are some characteristics of businesses in the mature phase. Innovation Sustaining Growth Declining Sales Management Succession Exit strategy Merger and Acquisitions Listed below are some links to help you if you are in this stage of development. Business Opportunities Business Advocacy Groups Financing Technology Transfer Other Resources