A true clean slate would be changing the business name.
Personally I think that idea would backfire.
There is a lot going for Open-
PR advertizing. "New owner? Hmm what's new?".
The word of mouth network is already there.
Turn it around 180.
For instance, Toyota and other mfrs are in a race to see how many recalls they can advertize.
Sound crazy?
The recall itself is not very important. It's the reputation of the company to make things right 100% of the time.
When the company is deemed 'reliable', word gets around.
Contact the old customers, and offer a discount to those who've been royally screwed by previous management.
They will become your best new advertizement.