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Some Of The Sectors Where Family Firms Have Endured for Generations
While family ownership can be found in almost every sector, certain parts of the global economy have proved particularly fertile ground for multigenerational endurance.
3 days ago


Built To Last: The Enduring Story Of George Bence & Sons
In the heart of Cheltenham, tucked along Fairview Road, stands a business that has quietly outlasted empires, economic swings and the relentless march of modern retail.
Mar 31


Why Britain’s Family-Owned Breweries Have Lasted Generations
A feature detailing a number of long-standing, family-owned British breweries who continue not only to survive, but to thrive.
Mar 27


Why Family-Owned Textile Firms Have Been Woven Through Time
Firms such as AW Hainsworth, Johnston’s of Elgin and the historic Macnaughton Group demonstrate that, for certain enterprises, longevity is woven into their very fabric.
Mar 24


Family Owned Distilleries Still Going Strong
Whether producing whisky, rum, brandy or gin, family distilleries have woven themselves into the cultural, economic and social fabric of their regions
Mar 18


A Family-Owned Approach To Scaling Care
Dr Hannah MacKechnie, managing director and co-founder of Radfield Home Care, reflects on building a national care franchise from its roots in Shropshire.
Mar 5


Leeds Jukebox Manufacturer Keeps Nostalgia Alive In Today’s Digital Age
On a quiet industrial estate in east Leeds, among warehouses and ring roads, a familiar glow still flickers.
Jan 26


A Yorkshire Family Firm Painting A Future Built On Heritage
In an industry often driven by short-term contracts and shifting ownership, Bagnalls stands out as a rare constant. Founded in 1875 and still family-owned nearly 150 years later, Bagnalls is one of the UK’s most respected names in its field.
Jan 23


Family Businesses And Their Significance In South Korea
South Korea’s economic story in the latter half of the twentieth century and into the twenty-first is often told in terms of its chaebols — large family-controlled conglomerates such as Samsung, Hyundai, LG, SK, and Lotte. Yet family businesses in South Korea are much more than the chaebol giants; they permeate the entire spectrum of the economy, from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in provincial towns to globally competitive exporters, and their influence extends far bey
Oct 9, 2025


Travel Perfection From This Scottish Family Business Gem
In a world of global travel and promises of ‘first-class’ service that often fail to meet their billing, there is something quietly...
Oct 9, 2025


Stafffinders, Scotland’s Family-Run Recruitment Consultancy
Nestled in the heart of Paisley, a town just outside of Glasgow, lies one of Scotland’s most enduring names in recruitment: Stafffinders....
Oct 7, 2025


Entrepreneurial Spirit & The Detail Behind The Retail At CCS McLays
In retail, one size never fits all. Different brands need different solutions when it comes to packaging, bespoke signage, specific garment hangers, and their logo on almost everything. Before 2005, it was either make-do with generic versions or spend big on tailored ones from multiple suppliers. That was the driving force that led to Ian Hall creating CCS McLays . He had the idea of being a new kind of partner to retailers. One that puts them in the driving seat. Sourcing a
Aug 7, 2025


How Family Enterprises Can Navigate Adversity & Build Organizational Fortitude
Fire, floods, relocation, and a pandemic couldn’t sink Formans, the family-run smoked salmon supplier. Here’s how they stayed afloat. When I tell people about the fire, the flood, and the compulsory purchase, everyone says, what about the plague of locusts? Well, now we have the plague as well. - Lance Forman, Owner, H.Forman & Son and formanandfield.com Policy analysts have coined the term ‘permacrisis’ to denote an extended period of difficulty arising from a spate of unpre
Jun 2, 2025


A Stitch In Time: Hatchers Marks 250 Years On Taunton’s High Street
In an era of fleeting trends and throwaway retail, one Taunton business stands as a remarkable thread of continuity. Hatchers, the...
May 30, 2025


Reflections On Prada's Succession Plan And Lessons For Family Firms
Recent news that Prada has agreed to buy Versace in a £1.1billion deal, that brings together two of Italy’s biggest luxury fashion...
Apr 25, 2025


Stobo Castle Health Spa: A Timeless Journey from Ancestral Estate to World-Class Destination Spa
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, Stobo Castle Health Spa stands as a majestic symbol of history, luxury, and rejuvenation and is now recognised as one of the most renowned destination spas in the UK. The story of Stobo Castle’s transformation into a wellness retreat is one of vision, perseverance, and a deep respect for the history that has shaped it. Paul Andrews spoke to Stephen Winyard and his wife Mandy, the current owners of Stobo Castle and the next
Nov 8, 2024


James Donaldson Group: A Timber Legacy That’s Stood The Test Of Time
The James Donaldson Group, one of Scotland’s longest-standing family businesses, has grown from a small sawmill in Fife into a diversified group of companies that are leaders in timber distribution, manufacturing, and construction. Over its 160+ year history, the company has not only evolved with the times but has also managed to stay true to its roots—a testament to its ability to adapt while remaining grounded in family values. Paul Andrews spoke to Michael Donaldson, Chair
Oct 7, 2024


Bridgman Furniture: A Legacy Of Craftsmanship & Innovation
Bridgman Furniture, a name synonymous with luxury and quality, has carved out a distinguished place in the furniture industry over decades. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, Bridgman's journey from a modest beginning to a celebrated brand offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of fine furniture making. Paul Andrews spoke to the third generation CEO, Alex Bridgman, to find out more. The story of Bridgman Furniture begins in the early 197
Oct 3, 2024


Bringing You A Flavour Of The Philippines
At RoniB's Kitchen, they aim to bring products that feature the bold and complex flavours of the Philippines. All of their products are lovingly recreated from family recipes and for Roni, who founded the business, her own memories of home. Made with the best local and Southeast Asian ingredients, their products are all-natural and free from artificial flavourings, colourings and preservatives. Paul Andrews spoke to Roni to find out more. The business was founded in 2017 sta
Sep 29, 2024


Thorburn Group: A Legacy of Entrepreneurship In The Borders Of Scotland
Nestled in the picturesque Borders of Scotland, Thorburn Group has established itself as a prominent name in the construction and civil engineering sectors, delivering quality steel frame buildings and fabrication services to agricultural, industrial, and commercial industries. Paul Andrews spoke to Euan Thorburn to find out more. Thorburn Group has a rich history spanning several decades, the company has not only contributed to the development of the region but has also demo
Sep 28, 2024

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