01 July 2008, 13:13 PM
  • Worried about who's going to take over your business when you retire? A new TV show called Keep it in the Family aims to highlight the need to continue the legacy

The Family business, once the staple of British industry, is disappearing. Each year around 30,000 close their doors for the last time simply because they can’t find a suitable successor.

Two thirds UK industry is made up of family businesses, with fewer than 13% of these surviving beyond their second generation. However, a generation ago the story was quite different, with 70% of businesses staying in the family. In fact, back then, family firms were thriving and the heir apparent would jump at the chance of a decent income and job security, not to mention the sense of pride in continuing the legacy. Nowadays the lure of moving away from home, spreading your wings and making a life for yourself is the norm for most young people. 

Brand new BBC Two show Keep it in the Family (produced by TwoFour Broadcast) is looking for family-run businesses facing the dilemma of who will take over the reins. Do you have a business that has been in the family for generations? Have blood, sweat and tears been shed to build your business but now the next generation are reluctant to carry on the tradition and the responsibility it brings?

If you would be willing to give your child a brief apprenticeship then step into temporary retirement, leaving them at the helm for two weeks; this could be the perfect opportunity for you and your offspring to take a fresh look at the future of the family firm. 

To find out how to apply call the Keep it in the Family Team on 01752 727 400, or email keepitinthefamily@twofour.co.uk