A research on future expectations of the 2nd and 3rd generations in family businesses

Family businesses have an important place in our country as in the world. The sustainability of family businesses plays a critical role for the country's economy. However, as the generations evolve, it is seen a decrease in regards to sustainability of family businesses. In particular, the rate of transfer from the 2nd generation to the 3rd generation decreases even more. In this study, it is aimed to determine the factors affecting the sustainability of family businesses, detecting the management problems causing from the intergenerational difference the characteristics of the generations and to offer solutions. In this study qualitative research method is applied. 3 family companies were selected in this study which are working main production and service sectors located in Bucak district of Burdur province. The interview is held with total of 10 participants, 5 from the 2nd generation and 5 from the 3rd generation. The data obtained from these interviews were analyzed through the Maxqda 2018 program. According to the evidences from the analysis results, the characteristics of the 2nd generation and 3rd generation, the expectations of the generations from each other and the differences of opinion between generations play an important role in the sustainability of the enterprise. According to the results of this research, the 2nd generation likes the 3rd generation to be the most innovative. The 3rd generation, while respecting the experiences of the 2nd generation is also very uncomfortable with their being closed to discussion. One of the most obvious differences between the 2nd and 3rd generation is the problem of adapting to technology. While the 2nd generation exhibits a more traditional and conservative approach towards technology, it is seen that the 3rd generation, on the contrary, adapts to technology. Evaluation was made within the framework of the findings obtained and the Suggestion were made for business managers and the following generations.