The sustainability of family businesses: evidence from three UK case studies

Abstract

This paper analyses some of the key issues faced by family businesses (FBs) in the UK. Perhaps because most family businesses are Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs), in the UK it is rare to draw any distinction between the problems faced by FBs and SMEs, yet FB have some unique characteristics and problems.. The paper examines certain key issues for the development (and perhaps the very existence), of the FBs. These areas are motivation (to found the business), development/diversification, sustainability (it is this family succession that most distinguishes an FOB from other businesses), and the role and importance of technology in all aspects of the business. These issues are discussed, with reference to the available literature and are highlighted by evidence from three case studies, each of which is taken from a different business sector in the UK.