When family businesses go international: management sets the path

摘要

Small- and medium-sized family firms (FSMEs) are many in number and are central in the dynamics of the world's economy. Their distinctive characteristic is firm ownership being centred on the family. In this context, the owner-manager carries great weight in defining strategic decisions, particularly the decision on internationalization. Although family firms are becoming central in global markets, internationalization is a complex strategic decision for businesses. However, it seems increasingly necessary because of continuous market globalization.