Understanding the family businesses : a case study from Brazil

Abstract

This thesis demonstrates through a case study of a 3 rd generation family business, the strengths and challenges of family businesses. It focuses on common problems facing family businesses such as family member interference, conflicts, and the absence of a succession plan. It also explores the various definitions of family business, the relevant research and data, cultural influences, and the unique benefits of family businesses. The case study is of a successful global Brazilian family business that was formed over 50 years ago by a family of immigrates that came to Brazil at the turn of the twentieth century. The family business grew from a small village market to a major international transportation, fruit production and export firm. The study highlights the importance to family firms of succession planning. It also illustrates how family businesses propel the economic growth in today's capitalist global economy, especially in emergent nations. Some of today's most powerful global firms started as family businesses and many are still under family control or family influence. Finally, this thesis offers some recommendations to next generations to help families understand how to perpetuate their businesses.