Assessing the impact of succession planning on the sustainability of family enterprises: A case study in South African family businesses
Acta Commercii
| Field | Value | |
| Title | Assessing the impact of succession planning on the sustainability of family enterprises: A case study in South African family businesses | |
| Creator | Adekomaya, Victoria O. Schachtebeck, Chris | |
| Description | Orientation: Succession planning is essential for the continuity and sustainability of family businesses, particularly in South Africa where such firms contribute significantly to economic activity and employment.Research purpose: This study investigates how effective succession planning influences leadership continuity, organisational resilience, and intergenerational sustainability in South African family-owned businesses.Motivation for the study: Many family businesses lack formal succession systems, leading to leadership instability, internal conflict, and business decline. Addressing this gap is crucial for long-term survival and economic contribution.Research approach/design and method: A qualitative multiple case study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with owners, managers, and supervisors from diverse family firms. Data were analysed through thematic analysis supported by NVivo.Main findings: Four themes shaped successful succession: early leadership development, inclusive governance, adaptability and innovation, and clear ownership and legal frameworks. Firms lacking structured plans experienced reactive transitions and operational strain.Practical/managerial implications: Family businesses should embed succession planning into strategic management, formalise governance structures, invest in leadership pipelines, encourage inclusive communication, and utilise external advisors during transitions.Contribution/value-add: The study offers context-specific insights into succession practices in South Africa and provides actionable strategies to strengthen continuity, resilience, and socio-economic impact in family enterprises. | |
| Publisher | AOSIS | |
| Date | 2025-12-19 | |
| Identifier | 10.4102/ac.v25i1.1464 | |
| Source | Acta Commercii; Vol 25, No 1 (2025); 11 pages 1684-1999 2413-1903 | |
| Language | eng | |
| Relation |
The following web links (URLs) may trigger a file download or direct you to an alternative webpage to gain access to a publication file format of the published article:
https://actacommercii.co.za/index.php/acta/article/view/1464/2859
https://actacommercii.co.za/index.php/acta/article/view/1464/2860
https://actacommercii.co.za/index.php/acta/article/view/1464/2861
https://actacommercii.co.za/index.php/acta/article/view/1464/2863
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