National Family Business Day, celebrated annually on the third Thursday in September, is dedicated to recognising the invaluable contributions of family-run enterprises to the country’s economy and communities. These businesses, often passed down through generations, embody the values of heritage, resilience, and innovation – values we at K&S McKenzie hold dear.
Family businesses form the bedrock of the UK’s economy. They account for a staggering 88% of all private sector firms, employing over 12 million people and contributing billions of pounds to the national GDP. These businesses span a diverse range of industries, from small local shops and restaurants to large multinational corporations, showcasing the breadth and depth of family entrepreneurship.
One of the hallmarks of family businesses is their ability to adapt and thrive through economic cycles, technological advancements, and societal changes. This resilience is often attributed to their long-term vision, strong values, and deep community ties.
Founded by Paul Andrews, CEO of Family Business United (FBU), National Family Business Day is an opportunity to celebrate the success stories of family businesses across the UK. Speaking on the importance of the day, Paul said:
“National Family Business Day is a vital opportunity to shine a light on the remarkable contributions of UK family firms. These businesses are the backbone of our economy and our communities, and their dedication and hard work deserve recognition.
We celebrate the resilience and innovation of family businesses, and we are committed to supporting them in navigating their unique challenges. This day is a testament to their enduring legacy and an affirmation of their crucial role in our society and it is a fantastic day to celebrate their impact on the national economy too.
We champion and celebrate the family business sector each and every day but the creation of a national day that shines a spotlight on the sector for all to see really does amplify the family business voice across the nation. Family firms really do put the GREAT into Great Britain.”
On National Family Business Day, communities across the UK come together to celebrate the achievements of family businesses.
Stuart McKenzie, Director for K&S McKenzie Ltd. adds:
“We proudly take part in National Family Business Day every year to help shine a light on the value family firms add to the communities in which they operate.
We are proud to be a third-generation family firm that has been in business for over 50 years. Our service offering may have grown over the years but the values that my parents instilled in my brother and I still remain the same and have been passed onto my son as he learns the ropes of the day-to-day running of the business. As a family, and as a team, we continue to look to the future, investing in the next generation and the future of our family business.”
As the UK continues to navigate the complexities of the modern economic landscape, family businesses remain a pillar of stability and innovation. National Family Business Day is not just a day of celebration, but also a call to action to support and nurture these enterprises, ensuring they continue to thrive for generations to come.
Find out more about National Family Business Day and the work Family Business United do to champion family businesses here.
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