Succession and retirement
Family business succession
Family business succession is how ownership and leadership pass from one generation to the next, or to someone outside the family. The main options are handing it to a willing family member, selling to a key employee, or selling all or part to an outside operator. The right one depends on who wants it and what each person needs.
Have the honest conversation first
Ask who actually wants to run the business, not who is expected to. Ask what the owners need to retire. Ask how siblings who are not involved will be treated fairly. Most succession problems start when these questions are skipped.
Options that keep it in the family's hands
A full transfer is not the only way.
Gradual transfer
Ownership moves over several years while the next generation takes on more of the work.
Partial sale to an operator
An outside partner takes a minority or majority stake and the back office, while family stays involved.
Full sale with family roles
The business is sold, and family members who want to keep working there stay on.
Where we fit
We invest minority, majority or partnership stakes in community and sport businesses, and we buy and hold. That can give a family liquidity now without losing what they built.
Questions owners ask
What is family business succession?
The process of passing ownership and leadership of a family business to the next generation or to someone outside the family.
How do I treat children who do not work in the business fairly?
Often through other assets, life insurance or a buyout. Talk to an estate lawyer and an accountant.
Can we sell part of the family business and keep running it?
Yes. A minority or partnership stake lets the family keep a role while bringing in capital and help.
What if the next generation is not ready yet?
A staged plan or an outside partner can carry the business until they are, or give the family a clean exit if they decide not to.
Book a confidential conversation
The first conversation costs nothing and stays between us. You set the timeline.
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