Author Description

Family businesses account for significant proportions of the GDP of most nations. In the UK for instance, it's estimated that they account for a staggering 38% of the GDP contributed by the private sector whilst US estimates range from 12% to 49%). Despite these figures, there are few books which can be described as true scholarly textbooks on this subject. Key to understanding the family business is a comprehension of three factors: the family, the business and the business or businesses in that family. The dynamic interaction of those three factors creates a learning environment where a few simple rules apply - and an understanding of people, situations and business are required. By including both theory and case study material, this text blends theory with real-life examples to provide an insight into the dynamic organism that is the family business. From the smallest unit of family business - the couple in business - to multi-national corporations, family businesses matter and the manner in which we learn about them matters too. This textbook represents a leap forward for students, researchers and practitioners involved with family businesses at all levels.