Family Business United continues to grow and we are delighted to launch our new membership brochure which highlights all of the benefits associated with membership of our innovative family business community. Download a copy below to see all the benefits that include insights, publications, events, reports and a whole lot more besides. Download the new membership brochure here:

Hill Cross Furniture is proud to announce the appointment of Georgina Louis as Project Manager to lead the company’s newly launched spa division, further strengthening their expertise in bespoke commercial furniture solutions for the wellness and hospitality industry. With over two decades of experience in spa management and operations, Georgina brings a unique client-side perspective to the Hill Cross team. She has overseen luxury wellness operations internationally, most notably at the well renowned BodyHoliday in St Lucia, as well as closer to home at Oulton Hall. Family-owned Hill Cross Furniture based in Cramble Cross, Northallerton, has worked with some of the most prestigious names in the industry, including Grantley Hall, Rockliffe Hall, Disney Cruise Line, Banya No.1 Chiswick and the refurbishment of Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa. Georgina is currently project managing Hill Cross Furniture’s contribution to the all-new spa at Aldwark Manor outside York, supplying bespoke chairs and tables for the spa’s café and restaurant area. The state-of-the-art facility has been built from the ground up and Phase 1 is set for completion in November. Georgina’s appointment marks a key milestone as Hill Cross expands its tailored offering for spa and wellness environments. Her deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by spa managers, designers, and procurement teams positions her perfectly to lead this specialist division. “In a spa environment, furniture must meet far more demanding requirements than standard hospitality pieces,” explains Georgina. “You’re dealing with high humidity, exposure to oils and treatments, and a need for both durability and luxurious comfort. Sourcing the right furniture, and the right supplier, can be incredibly challenging. That’s where Hill Cross makes a real difference.” As a former Spa Director, Georgina knows first hand the frustration of finding furniture that is not only fit for purpose but also customisable to align with a spa’s brand identity and guest experience. At Hill Cross, she is especially focused on promoting the company’s re-upholstery service. A solution that offers exceptional value for spas undergoing regular refurbishments or operating under sustainability commitments. “Re-upholstery is one of those services that spa managers often overlook, but it can extend the life of your investment, reduce waste, and keep your space looking fresh, all without compromising on quality or guest experience.” Georgina is now actively engaging with her network to introduce Hill Cross’s capabilities in the spa and wellness sector and is currently working on two high-profile spa projects. She welcomes conversations with spa managers, designers, and procurement professionals looking for reliable, creative, and long-term furniture solutions.

It was an action-packed day of double celebrations as digger maker JCB marked the company’s 80th anniversary. JCB was founded in a 12ft x 15ft lock-up garage in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire by Joseph Cyril Bamford CBE on October 23rd, 1945 – the same day as his son Anthony was born. The 80th birthday celebrations began by stepping back in time to where it all began, with Lord Bamford unveiling a blue heritage plaque on the spot where the original garage stood in the High Street, Uttoxeter. Lord Bamford’s father rented the lock-up garage - which had no electricity - for 30 shillings a week and it was there he made his first product, a farm trailer built largely from wartime scrap, which he sold for £45 at Uttoxeter market. Mr Bamford stayed at the garage for 18 months until the owner asked him to leave because she didn’t approve of Sunday working. He then moved down the road to a stable block at Crakemarsh, a few miles north of the town. Unveiling the plaque at Hollydene House, Uttoxeter, Lord Bamford said: “My earliest memory of the business is of me playing in my father’s workshop. Other than my time at school and my apprenticeship in France with another company, I’ve been around ever since." “We have developed the business and products along the way enormously. Probably one of the greatest pleasures for me has been in developing products with our formidable team of highly qualified engineers." “As we celebrate JCB’s 80th birthday, it’s wonderful to be back at the spot where it all began and to mark the location with a special blue plaque. I’m delighted that in a small way we can highlight where it all began and reflect on the continuing importance of our home county of Staffordshire.” At the ceremony, Uttoxeter Deputy Mayor Councillor Aaron Mansfield, added: “It is a source of great pride that Uttoxeter was the birthplace of one of the country’s most successful manufacturing companies and we are delighted to officially mark the spot where the business began as it celebrates its 80th anniversary.” Later, Lord Bamford arrived back at the World HQ in Rocester, he was greeted by more than 3,500 employees lining the Lakeside Works’ pathways to pay tribute and to celebrate his and JCB’s birthdays. A spectacular cavalcade procession marked milestones and showcased machines he has introduced since becoming Chairman in 1975. The cavalcade starred the first Loadall from 1977, the classic 3CX and the world speed record-breaking JCBGT backhoe, the revolutionary 1991 Fastrac tractor and its 2019 World’s Fastest Tractor protégé, the multi-award winning 19C-1E electric mini excavator, followed by the industry-leading Pothole Pro and game-changing hydrogen backhoe and hydrogen Loadall. The procession also featured eight former students of the JCB Academy who have forged successful careers with the company. It was Lord Bamford’s vision to found the school which opened in 2010 with the vision of producing the engineers and business leaders of the future. In partnership with high-profile companies such as Rolls-Royce, Toyota and Hex Group, it has gone on to educate more than 3,500 students from across Staffordshire and Derbyshire, with every single student either entering employment or further or higher education. The gathered crowds were also treated to the unveiling of a special JCB 3CX ‘Backhoe in a Box’ - a spectacular life-size 3CX Sitemaster backhoe packaged in the same way as manufacturer Britains package the 1:32 scale models of the JCB machine. It will be displayed beside the JCB lake until January, for members of the public to see. After the cavalcade, JCB Chief Executive Officer Graeme Macdonald paid tribute to Lord Bamford. He said: “When he became Chairman in 1975, this was JCB’s only factory. JCB has 22 plants around the world and more than 19,000 employees. As we have expanded globally over the past 50 years, he has remained steadfast in his support for British manufacturing and committed to investing in JCB’s UK plants." “In fact, nine British plants have opened in Staffordshire, Derbyshire, and Wrexham during his tenure. JCB has been backing Britain since 1945—and with renewed energy under his leadership! Today we thank him for that leadership.” Addressing the crowds of employees, Lord Bamford said: “My father would have been proud of JCB at 80. We have great products and great people making a difference in the world. We continue to hold true to his values of ‘jamais content’ (never content) and ‘always looking for a better way.’ While my father retired at the age of 59, I – along with JCB - shall be 80 tomorrow and I’m still here.” The day concluded with a formal party for Lord Bamford at the World HQ, with more than 100 invited guests, including dozens of retired people with whom Lord Bamford has worked through the decades. Meanwhile, all 19,000 JCB employees in its 22 plants across the globe are looking forward to an extra day’s holiday on Friday, October 24th in recognition of their contributions to the company’s success in its 80th anniversary year.

Yorkshire heritage brand and renowned British manufacturer of premium leisure cloth, Hainsworth Cue Sports Fabrics, has welcomed former 1997 world snooker champion and BBC broadcast commentator Ken Doherty as its first-ever ambassador. The Irish snooker icon will step into a 12-month ambassador role, with his appointment marking a strategic partnership forged to help grow brand awareness and reinforce Hainsworth’s dedication to quality, precision, and the heritage of cue sports. The alliance will see him representing the brand at major events, supporting product innovation, and promoting Hainsworth Cue Sports Fabrics commitment to players of all levels. A celebrated figure in the world of professional snooker, Ken Doherty's career spans over three decades, marked by his World Championship title, six winning ranking event titles, a 12-year run ranking inside the top eight, and building a respected presence as a commentator and ambassador of the sport. To this day, Doherty is still the only professional player to win the treble, which includes the World Juniors, the World Amateur, and the World Professional Championships. Doherty explains: “I’m a traditionalist. I love the history and heritage of the game. Hainsworth Cue Sports Fabrics shares those same values. It’s a company built on tradition and quality, so it’s a great fit for me." “You can see the detail, hard work and technicality that goes into making the cloth, and it’s improved immensely over the years. That’s the great thing about what’s happening in cue sports around the world – everybody has really upped their game." “Hainsworth produces three different types of cloth, but the quality across the board is superb. The speed is fantastic. Professionals love a fast cloth because it allows you to manoeuvre the cue ball without forcing the shot. It’s one of the fastest cloths I’ve ever played on.” Hainsworth has been a trusted name in cue sports fabrics for generations, supplying championship-grade, premium woollen fabrics to some of the most prestigious tournaments, venues, and manufacturers worldwide. The British textile manufacturer weaves its high-quality snooker and pool table cloths at AW Hainsworth’s 243-year-old woollen mill in Stanningley, West Yorkshire, combining tradition with innovation to deliver world-class playing surfaces. The manufacturer creates and supplies a range of graded pool and snooker fabrics to international customers, including professional players, world-leading tournaments and independent fitters. Amanda McLaren, Managing Director of AW Hainsworth said: “Ken Doherty is a true champion and legend of the sport. His integrity and love for the game perfectly align with our values. We are thrilled to welcome him to the AW Hainsworth family and look forward to working together to elevate the game even further.” Photo : Andy Laycock, Phil Atherton, Ken Doherty and Nigel Birch in Hainsworth Mill

Millions of workers across the UK could see their pensions increase by up to 60% as new regulations for Collective Defined Contribution (CDC) schemes are set to be laid. Unlike Defined Contribution (DC) schemes, CDCs pool pension schemes into a collective fund giving workers regular pension payments for life, more security and higher average retirement incomes throughout retirement when compared to individual pension pots. The new regulations will allow the expansion of CDCs to more employers and will address a growing demand among workers to receive a more secure retirement income. Research shows almost three-quarters of people with DC schemes want a guaranteed income from their pension despite 50% of pots currently being taken out as a lump sum. As well as boosting the retirement living standards of today’s workers, pooling funds enables schemes to make bigger investments in assets such as UK businesses and infrastructure projects. This will help boost the economy – as seen in countries such as Canada and Denmark who already have CDCs – and support the Government’s Plan for Change to drive economic growth and improve retirement outcomes for millions of savers. Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said: "Too often people approaching retirement are left navigating complex choices and shoulder risks they shouldn’t have to face alone." "Collective pensions offer savers a new option that in many cases will be a better deal, one where risks are shared, returns are smoothed and retirement incomes are stronger and paid for life". "By expanding CDC to more employers and consulting on retirement CDC, we are helping build a fairer pensions system that gives people confidence their hard-earned savings will last and they can enjoy their retirement." Ahead of the regulations being laid tomorrow, Minister for Pensions, Torsten Bell, will be delivering a speech to hundreds of key employers across the UK later today setting out the benefits of CDC schemes and the next steps to implementing them. The move builds on the progress made by the UK’s first CDC scheme, the Royal Mail Collective Pension Plan which has over 100,000 members and reflects growing demand for pensions that deliver a lifelong income. Director of the CDC Forum David Pitt-Watson said: "This is a major step forward for pension provision in Britain. If employers who sponsor pensions follow through, it will mean private sector workers, as well as those in the public sector, have an effective pension which will last them until the day they die." The Government is also today launching a consultation on ‘Retirement CDC’ which would allow people who have saved into a DC scheme to transfer their pension pot into a CDC scheme at retirement. The aim of this is to see more people receive a regular income for life that aims to keep up with rising prices without having to worry about managing their retirement money themselves or working out how long their savings need to last. Single employer CDC regulations were a landmark moment in the UK pensions market. The Government is taking decisive action on calls from industry to expand CDC to more employers with the view that millions of more workers will be able to access the many benefits CDCs offer. On top of this, creating retirement CDCs would be an additional innovation allowing more people to enjoy the perks of CDC. This builds on reform already underway to create better pensions for tomorrow’s generation. This includes the Pension Schemes Bill, which could boost a workers’ pension by £29,000, and the revival of the Pensions Commission to ensure tomorrow’s pensioners are not poorer than today’s. Zoe Alexander, Executive Director of Policy and Advocacy, Pensions UK, said: "Multi-employer CDC schemes have the potential to boost retirement savings by sharing risks between savers. Success depends on striking the right balance between strong protections for members, simplicity and fairness of scheme design. We agree with Government that innovation in CDC carries huge promise for savers and are pleased that this Government is supporting the development of both multi-employer and at-retirement CDCs." Nausicaa Delfas, CEO, The Pensions Regulator, said: "We are all working towards turning a savings system into a pensions system which provides a sustainable income through later life. Innovative solutions like retirement-only CDC schemes could play a part in this, and I’d encourage people to get involved with the upcoming consultation to ensure their ideas are heard." Pretty Sagoo, Managing Director of Defined Benefit Solutions, Just Group, said: "At a time when pensions policy is enjoying long-overdue attention, the government’s exploration of ways to further improve retirement income is welcome. Most DC savers expect their pension to provide the income needed to help them achieve financial security in retirement. Retirement CDC could be a valuable answer to that challenge for some schemes and scheme members, in addition to other solutions that are already available or are coming to this market." Jane Kielty, UK CEO, Aon, said: "We are very pleased to host Torsten Bell MP, at Aon’s London offices for the CDC Forum launch. Aon is a long-standing promoter of CDC’s development in the UK – dating back to 2013 – and we have been actively involved in shaping the whole‑life multi‑employer CDC regulations to be announced today. We believe that these regulations will open the floodgates for all employers - and therefore over 25 million workers in the UK - to have the opportunity to use their defined contributions to build up a pension during their working lives." Chintan Gandhi, Partner and Head of Collective DC, Aon, said: "These regulations are a huge step for UK CDC. They will open up the market to multi-employer whole-life CDC schemes, including those provided by master trusts, enabling them to meet the needs of all employers and the self-employed – regardless of the size of their workforce or their contribution budgets. In offering employees whole-life CDC, employers’ and employees’ defined contributions can be pooled, together with investment and longevity risks being shared across the entire scheme membership." "Crucially, whole-life CDC provides employees with an income for life in retirement that is expected to keep pace with the cost of living, and without individual employees needing to make complex decisions. It’s also exciting to see the emergence of a vision for retirement CDC which paves the way for all retirees - regardless of how they’ve built up their pension saving - to access the benefits of CDC when they retire." Andy O’Regan, Chief Client Strategy Officer, TPT Retirement Solutions, said: "The publication of multi-employer Collective Defined Contributions (CDC) regulations marks a major leap forward for the UK pensions industry. For the first time, employers of all sizes will be able to access the benefits of Collective DC provision, paving the way for better outcomes for members and greater scale in this new model. The new rules will allow more workers to receive incomes for life in retirement, avoiding the need to make difficult decisions, while employers will maintain the cost certainty they have with DC provision." "Earlier this year, we announced our intention to launch a multi-employer CDC scheme – just days after Pensions Minister Torsten Bell set out the timeline for this new legislation. Currently, the UK has just one single employer CDC scheme, so we’re proud to be leading the next wave of pension innovation in the UK. We are also pleased to see that government has today published its plans on retirement CDC for consultation." "Unlike the whole-life model, CDC in decumulation does not pool investment risk in accumulation, but it does take advantage of longevity pooling in a similar way, to provide a lifelong income in retirement. As such, this model could be of particular interest to DC schemes which will be required to offer members a ‘guided retirement default’ in future years. We will continue to engage with government to help shape the regime for this model."

A new nationwide survey conducted by Family Business United, in partnership with family-run favourite The Victor Pizza Company, has revealed the UK’s ultimate pizza choice, and it’s official: the classic Pepperoni Pizza has claimed the crown. The survey set out to uncover the nation’s most-loved pizza toppings, and Pepperoni came out sizzling on top, taking nearly a third of all votes. The UK’s Top 10 Favourite Pizzas Pepperoni – 30% Margherita – 12% Meat Feast – 10% Hot & Spicy – 7% Mushroom – 6% La Reine – 6% Hawaiian – 5% Chicken – 5% Capricciosa – 3% BBQ – 2% Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United, said: “This collaboration with The Victor Pizza Company was a delicious way to engage the public while celebrating the importance of family businesses in everyday life." "Pizza is a comfort food staple for so many, and it’s fascinating to see how strong the nation’s preferences are, with Pepperoni clearly standing out as a fan favourite." "The age-old pineapple debate also lives on, with 5% of respondents naming the Hawaiian as their top choice. Love it or hate it, pineapple still has a seat at the UK’s pizza table, and it continues to spark conversation, just as good food should.” A second-generation family business with over 50 years of history, The Victor Pizza Company is known for its authentic Italian roots, Glasgow heart, and no-nonsense approach to great food. Anne-Marie Cairney, CEO of The Victor Pizza Company, said: “We’ve been making pizza for over half a century, long enough to know that when it comes to toppings, everyone’s got an opinion! Pepperoni doesn’t surprise me at number one, but we were chuffed to see such a mix across the board, from spicy fans to the brave souls still flying the flag for pineapple." "At Victor Pizza, we’ve always said there’s a pizza for everyone, whether you’re a Margherita loyalist or you pile on the lot. It’s brilliant to see that passion still alive and well across the UK. These little insights remind us why we do what we do: good food, made with care, for people who love it.” This fun campaign not only showcased the UK’s pizza preferences but also highlighted the creativity and community spirit of the country’s family businesses. Paul Andrews added: “Family firms are at the heart of the UK food sector, and this survey is a great reminder of their relevance and reach. Whether it’s a slice of tradition or a taste of innovation, family businesses continue to feed the nation, literally and figuratively.”

F.Hinds, the family owned and run jewellers established in 1856, opened their second store in Scotland, at The Centre Livingston in September, along with another store in the South East, at the Friars Square Shopping Centre in Aylesbury, which opened last week. The openings mark another milestone in the company’s ongoing expansion and commitment to bringing quality, value and expert service to customers across the country. The jeweller, which already boasts 119 stores across the country, is set to see the arrival of more new stores plus upgrades to bigger and better locations before the year’s end. In Aylesbury, F.Hinds is a familiar sight for locals with long memories, having had a store in the town from 1969 to 1992, only being forced to close when it was demolished as part of the redevelopment which created Friars Square. At the Cotswolds Designer Outlet in Tewkesbury, Chapelle, the outlet expert in jewellery and designer timepieces, officially opened its doors this summer. The Cotswolds Designer Outlet officially opened after much anticipation in July and is the newest hotspot for a luxurious and varied shopping experience. Its beautiful backdrop makes for the perfect location for Chapelle to expand its stores, marking its 13th location. With a history of being family owned, Chapelle has been a part of the sixth-generation family jeweller F.Hinds since 2019. Paul Hinds, Managing Director at F.Hinds & Chapelle commented, “Opening these new stores is testament to the continued growth of the business and marks a strong year so far. Our continued expansion into Scotland with the store opening in Livingston, along with the return to Aylesbury demonstrates our commitment to always move F.Hinds forward and establish our brand in communities up and down the country." Paul continues, “Having Chapelle trading at The Cotswolds Designer Outlet is a further example of our ethos to embrace development and be forward-thinking with our expansion.” The opening of these three stores marks a successful 2025 so far for the business, however government changes to Business Property Relief have made the future more uncertain for the retailer. These changes are likely to reduce further growth plans and while stores in Bradford, Newbury and Burton have recently been confirmed, how 2026 shapes up remains to be seen. Paul concludes: “We are navigating a changing economic landscape and while there are clearly challenges, we will always seek to look forward and continue expanding our portfolio.”

Manchester-based paint manufacturer HMG Paints has officially opened their new department known as the “Len Hutton Centre”, a modern facility dedicated to water-based production. The opening of this department will increase water-based production capabilities at HMG, with the department being named after former HMG Production Director, Len Hutton. This substantial capital investment, which coincides with the business celebrating its 95th anniversary, is projected to increase capacity by an estimated 50,000 litres per month and allows the business to meet growing demand for its range of water-based products, as customers and the industry shift towards low-VOC, environmentally friendly and sustainable coatings. The new department, operated by six highly trained staff members, is equipped with 12 high-efficiency mixers and a dedicated washout facility and showcases HMG Paints' commitment to investment and innovation, whilst also celebrating the core family-first approach at the company. The Len Hutton Centre will serve as a hub for developing and manufacturing innovative, water-based coatings for a range of markets. "This is a huge honour, having a department named after myself makes me feel my name will truly live forever at HMG” said Len, whose legacy the new department honours." “I consider it a great privilege to know that my department will be the future of waterborne production for the company, and it is great to have myself named amongst other greats at the business who have similarly had departments named after them throughout the years." Len began his career in production at HMG in March 1974, before moving on to establish and transform the Colour Laboratory, revolutionising how HMG match and produce their colours and eventually became Production Director before retiring from the business in 2021. When the new department was established, it was an easy decision for the Directors to honour Len, who was an integral part of the company's growth, as well as his commitment to quality for over 40 years. The new department was officially unveiled on September 17th, with staff, past and present, spanning multiple generations of the business all gathering to witness the grand reveal. Speaking at the unveiling of the new department, John Falder, HMG Chairman remarked: “It’s great to have a department named after one of the true greats of HMG, Len and I started as kids together and across our 45 years of working together, Len became the foundation of our colour laboratory, tints and all the systems that followed." "As a business, we were one of four hundred industrial paint manufacturers around at the time Len joined the business, and its thanks to him as well as many others that we are where we are today.”

Hampshire-based Maddie Saunders, a Marketing Specialist at local car dealer group Hendy, is celebrating a sporting triumph, having secured a silver medal in the World Individual Women’s race at the 2025 Cycle Speedway World Championships. This success ends an impressive series of wins in which Maddie also became a World Women’s Federation Cup Champion, a World Women’s Nations Cup Champion, and a World Women’s Best Pairs Champion during her time at the World Championships. Hendy supported Maddie’s endeavour by providing her with a Mazda CX-60 for the duration of the World championship, helping transport her cycle speedway bike, mountain bike and luggage in comfort to multiple races around East Anglia. The Cycle Speedway World Championships comprises a series of international heats where world-class riders compete across multiple categories. The oval track is up to 90 metres long, and four riders race shoulder to shoulder in a four-lap sprint. Maddie, who rides for Southampton Cycle Speedway, is now focusing her training efforts on being selected to represent Team GB on home soil at the European Championships next August, and hopes to also secure a place in her fourth World Championship. Reflecting on the event, Maddie said: “Competing on home soil was such an incredible experience for me and to be selected to ride in front of a British crowd was a real testament to all the hard work I’ve put in. Winning silver at the World Championships made it even more special.” Mark Busby, Director of Commercial Operations at Hendy Group: “The whole Hendy Group was behind Maddie once again as she entered her third World Championships. Great teams are built by great individuals, and Maddie’s dedication to her sport is fantastic to see. We’re proud to call her a Hendy colleague and pleased to play a small part in her medal-winning endeavours.” To find out more about career opportunities at Hendy, visit here .

The release of Deloitte Private’s Family Business Insights Series: Defining the Family Business Landscape, 2025 reveals how family-owned businesses are evolving to fuel long-term growth. Based on a survey of 1,587 family businesses across 36 countries and in-depth interviews with 30 senior executives, the research explores how family businesses are navigating a complex market landscape through innovation, strategic expansion, and leadership transformation. Key Findings: Among all businesses globally with US$100 million+ in revenue, family businesses account for 22%. Within this cohort, the number of family businesses worldwide is projected to grow by 22% between 2020 and 2030. These family businesses’ annual revenue is expected to rise 84% over this period, outpacing the expected 59% growth in non-family businesses. With the ‘great wealth transfer’ in play, a family business ownership shake-up is underway with 26% of family businesses targeting outside investment/private equity, 19% looking to increase non-family management’s ownership, 12% looking to go public, and 3% selling the business. Investment in technology, including AI, was ranked the top family business growth strategy, with 40% increasing their investment. “The launch of the Family Business Insights Series provides a comprehensive view of family businesses worldwide to better understand their robust growth and how they are evolving their strategies to navigate a rapidly changing world,” says Wolfe Tone, Deloitte Private leader, Deloitte Global. “Family businesses are a driving force of the economy—and Deloitte Global’s research shows they are scaling innovation, expanding across borders, and rethinking ownership to stay ahead of accelerating change.” Family Businesses Globally Are Growing In Size And Influence, Despite Headwinds Family businesses with revenue of at least US$100 million now make up over one in five businesses worldwide (22%). That number—currently 18,087—is expected to climb to 19,744 by 2030, up from 16,194 in 2020, marking a 22% increase over the decade. Their economic contribution is rising as well, with total family business revenue projected to climb 84% from approximately US$16 trillion in 2020 to US$29 trillion in 2030—surpassing the 59% expected growth among non-family businesses. Today, family business revenue stands at US$21 trillion. This momentum is unfolding despite a backdrop of ongoing economic uncertainty, which family businesses ranked as their top external risk, with 68% noting that it is causing a delay in key business investments and growth initiatives, and 70% reporting they believe the imposition of expansive tariffs will negatively hurt the economy/their business. Moreover, family businesses also ranked cyber threats, geopolitical tension, and rising production costs as top risks, underscoring the complex landscape they are currently navigating. Technology And Strategic Diversification Drive Growth And Resilience To drive growth and reinforce resilience, family businesses are turning to technology and diversification. Investing in technology—including AI—to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and scale-up business initiatives ranked family businesses’ number one growth strategy (40% of respondents). Another 36% are focusing on diversifying their revenue streams by launching new products and services. While family businesses typically make the bulk of their revenue in their domestic market, many are diversifying by expanding their businesses internationally. Europe ranks as family businesses’ top preferred destination, with more than half (51%) planning to expand in Europe over the next 24 months. North America (48%) and Asia Pacific (40%) follow as the next most popular regions for near-term growth, underscoring a globally diversified approach to expansion. “Globalisation, favourable economic conditions, and rapid technological innovation have propelled family businesses into an era of strong, sustained growth,” says Dr. Rebecca Gooch, Deloitte Private Global Head of Insights, Deloitte Global “However, this growth is unfolding against a backdrop of increasing complexity and volatility, driven by rising economic and geopolitical uncertainty, cyber threats, surging input costs, and talent shortages. As a result, risk management and strategic planning are taking centre stage, prompting family businesses to double down on professionalization, diversify their operations, and accelerate technology adoption.” The Great Wealth Transfer Shifts Family Business Ownership Looking to the next 3-5 years, 26% of family businesses plan to bring in outside investors/private equity, 19% expect to increase ownership among non-family management, 12% plan to go public, and 3% aim to sell their business. While many factors can influence ownership decisions, one key area that family business leaders cited during interviews was the great wealth transfer. With nearly three-quarters of family businesses surveyed in their first (27%) or second (45%) generation of family leadership, the global generational transition is expected to shape the future of many family businesses. “As we look to the future, many family businesses are honouring their legacy while preparing for what’s next,” says Adrian Batty, Deloitte Private Global Family Enterprise leader, Deloitte Global. “By investing in innovation, entering new markets, and prioritising next-generation leadership, family businesses are strengthening succession plans and addressing long-standing talent gaps—key to securing continuity and long-term performance.” Download the full report here: About Defining the Family Business Landscape, 2025 Deloitte Private’s global Defining the Family Business Landscape report is the inaugural study in the Deloitte Private Family Business Insights Series. To inform this research, Deloitte Private surveyed 1,587 family-owned businesses worldwide between March and June 2025, capturing perspectives from companies averaging US$2.8 billion in annual revenue. The report also includes in-depth interviews with 30 senior executives from prominent family businesses, offering qualitative insights into the strategies and practices that drive long-term success. In addition to the survey data, a separate piece of analysis was conducted to produce the family business market sizing data. This data examines the growth of the family business arena between 2020 and 2030, comparing family businesses (including those both public and private) to all businesses (including family and non-family businesses that are both public and private). All the businesses have revenue of at least US$100 million and, for the family businesses, only those where a single family has the controlling vote, sits within the executive leadership/board, and owns a 51%+ stake if it is a private, or a 25%+ stake if it is a public, business is included.

Family Business United, the leading organisation championing family-owned enterprises, is proud to announce the return of Scottish Family Business Day, set to take place on February 5, 2026. This dedicated day is a celebration of the vital role family businesses play in driving Scotland’s economy. From creating jobs and fostering innovation to strengthening communities, family firms are at the heart of economic life—and this day provides a platform to showcase their remarkable impact. Paul Andrews, CEO of Family Business United, expressed his enthusiasm about organising the day once again: “Family businesses are the backbone of our economy, and Scottish Family Business Day is a brilliant opportunity to highlight their achievements. These businesses represent resilience, innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to their communities. We are proud to champion their success.” Scottish Family Business Day will be marked by a range of online activities, including social media campaigns, profile-raising opportunities, and shared insights from businesses and advisers alike. The day brings together family firms of all sizes—from small local businesses to long-established multi-generational companies—as well as the professionals who support them. Family Business United invites all Scottish family businesses, along with the advisers who work closely with them, to take part in this celebration. By coming together, the community can amplify its collective voice, showcasing the strength, resilience, and contribution of family-owned enterprises across the country. Paul adds: “This day is about recognising the incredible economic and social value family businesses bring to Scotland—the jobs they sustain, the income they generate, and the communities they help flourish." "Every family business has a unique story. We’re encouraging them to share images, stories, and insights into who they are and what they do. By doing so, we can amplify their voices and demonstrate the real impact they have.” “Each year, the celebration grows, with increasing engagement and activity across social media. We’re looking forward to another fantastic #ScottishFamilyBizDay that shines a spotlight on this vital sector and all it does to support Scotland.” Family Business United has created a campaign pack for family businesses and their advisers to get involved with Scottish Family Business Day. You can order your social media marketing pack to join the campaign here

Turner has appointed Jason Cohen as Investment Director, strengthening its team as the business looks to partner with ambitious management teams in industrial and business service markets. Turner is fourth generation family business which has been building private companies for more than 100 years. Its portfolio of businesses’ turnover is in excess of £90 million with a combined balance sheet value of over £150 million. Jason joined the team in October and will focus on sourcing and securing new deals. He joins Turner from PwC Corporate Finance in Glasgow, where he has advised on a wide range of corporate and private equity transactions. Craig Campbell, CEO of Turner, said: “Jason’s appointment is another important milestone for Turner as we continue our evolution, building on our heritage in engineering and industrial services. Jason’s energy and expertise will bring real value to our ambition to partner with new teams to build their companies as we focus on driving business growth and long-term success across our portfolio.” Jason said: “Turner’s values, legacy and operational experience built over more than a century is truly exceptional and unique. I look forward to playing an important role with the business at this significant point in its evolution and helping to deliver on our strategic vision.” Jason’s arrival follows the appointment of Mark Abbey as Turner’s Operating Partner earlier this year. Jason will work closely with the Turner team to explore new platform deals in industrial and business services markets. A particular area of focus in coming months will be on safety and water industry service businesses. Jason was formerly Associate Director at PwC in its Corporate Finance team having been at the firm almost seven years. He regularly worked on multi-million-pound deals on both sides, as well as brief seats in PwC’s transaction services and equity fundraising teams. In July, Turner sold its aviation business, Turner Aviation, to Precision Aviation Group, a global provider of aerospace maintenance, repair and overhaul services. The move contributed significantly to Turner’s liquid resources, with substantial funds available for investment in its existing companies and new transactions.