Skip to content
Family-Owned Business Overview
- Family businesses comprise over 90% of businesses in the US.
- The world’s oldest family business, a hotel in Japan, has operated for over 45 generations.
- Some noted family businesses worldwide are in various industries like hotels and restaurants.
- In a family business, at least two family members own a majority stake and are involved in operations and management.
- Leadership often passes between generations.
- Family businesses drive economic growth but can struggle when expanding beyond family employees.
- A benefit is stability since leadership relies on birth order rather than office politics.
- Trust also comes more easily.
- However, decisions may serve family needs rather than business needs.
- Also, unqualified family members might be promoted.
- If you do start a family business, ensure everyone agrees upfront on vision and structure.
Nepotism in Business
- Nepotism refers to favoring friends and family in business decisions.