Running a family business in the UK often means more than just making ends meet—it’s about tradition, pride, and passing on something meaningful. From the bustling streets of London to the rolling hills of Yorkshire, many family firms have stood the test of time, weathering wars, recessions, and—let’s be honest—more than a few awkward Sunday lunches.

But here’s what makes these businesses truly remarkable: they’ve managed to stay relevant across centuries. While high street chains come and go, and tech startups flame out after a few years, these family enterprises have found ways to honor their past while embracing their future. They’ve navigated everything from the Industrial Revolution to the digital age, from family feuds to global pandemics.

We took a closer look at five long-standing, multi-generation family businesses from around the UK, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. If you’re part of a family business yourself, you might find their stories familiar—and inspiring. More importantly, you might discover that the challenges you’re facing today have been faced by countless family businesses before you.

The Unique Challenges of UK Family Businesses

Before we dive into these success stories, it’s worth acknowledging what makes family businesses in the UK particularly challenging. There’s the British tendency to “keep calm and carry on”—which can be great for weathering storms, but terrible for addressing underlying issues. There’s the class system, which can create complicated dynamics when family members have different educational backgrounds or social expectations. And there’s the famous British reserve, which means important conversations often get pushed aside in favor of talking about the weather.

Add to that the practical challenges: inheritance tax that can force families to sell businesses they’ve spent generations building, planning permission processes that can stymie expansion, and employment laws that make it tricky to fire your own cousin (even when they really deserve it).

Yet despite all these hurdles, family businesses remain the backbone of the UK economy. They employ millions of people, contribute billions to the GDP, and create the kind of workplace culture that makes people want to stay for decades. There’s something special about working somewhere that treats you like family—even when the actual family members are having a row in the boardroom.

1. Fortnum & Mason (Established 1707) – Tradition Is Your Superpower

Let’s start with perhaps the most famous name on our list. Fortnum & Mason began in 1707 when William Fortnum, a royal footman, partnered with his landlord Hugh Mason to sell leftover candles from Queen Anne’s court. What started as a side hustle in a tiny shop has become a global symbol of British luxury and refinement.

Today, it’s a world-renowned name, still steeped in tradition—and still innovating, from luxury hampers to modern sustainability efforts. Walk into their flagship store in Piccadilly, and you’ll see the same elegant displays that have been drawing customers for centuries, alongside cutting-edge digital experiences and modern interpretations of classic products.

While no longer owned solely by the founding family, its culture, heritage, and commitment to craftsmanship have been fiercely preserved by the extended business “family” who’ve worked there for generations. Some employees are third or fourth-generation Fortnum’s staff, carrying on traditions that their grandparents established.

What they got right: Fortnum & Mason understood early on that their story was their strength. They didn’t try to compete on price or convenience—they competed on heritage, quality, and the unique experience of shopping somewhere with genuine history. Their famous hampers became legendary not just because they contained good food, but because they represented a piece of British culture.

They also mastered the art of evolution without revolution. When they expanded internationally, they didn’t water down their British identity—they amplified it. When they embraced e-commerce, they didn’t abandon their physical stores—they used technology to enhance the traditional shopping experience.

The challenges they faced: Like many long-established businesses, Fortnum & Mason had to navigate periods when their traditional customer base was shrinking. Post-war Britain was less interested in luxury goods, and the social changes of the 1960s and 70s made their formal, aristocratic image seem outdated.

They also faced the challenge of maintaining quality while scaling up. As demand grew, it would have been easy to cut corners or outsource production, but they understood that their reputation depended on maintaining the standards that had made them famous in the first place.

Lesson: Your story matters. Tradition isn’t just about dusty old records—it’s a competitive edge. In a world of generic brands and mass production, authenticity stands out. Lean into what makes your family’s history unique, but don’t let tradition become a prison. The best family businesses use their heritage as a foundation for innovation, not an excuse to avoid change.

2. Wilkin & Sons Ltd (Since 1885) – Rooted in Place, Grown with Purpose

If you’ve ever had a proper cream tea, you’ve probably seen Tiptree jam on the table. Wilkin & Sons has been making preserves in the Essex village of Tiptree for over 135 years, still growing fruit on the same farm where the business began.

What makes Wilkin & Sons remarkable isn’t just their longevity—it’s their commitment to doing things the right way, even when the easy way beckons. They still grow their own fruit, still make their preserves in small batches, and still employ people from the local community. In an industry dominated by mass production and artificial flavors, they’ve remained stubbornly artisanal.

Even today, the business remains deeply local—with global reach. They’ve stuck to quality and authenticity while embracing new markets abroad. You can find Tiptree jam in luxury hotels in Tokyo, gourmet shops in New York, and countless homes across the UK where quality still matters.

What they got right: Wilkin & Sons understood that being local doesn’t mean being small. They’ve grown internationally while keeping their roots firmly planted in Essex soil. They’ve also mastered the art of premium positioning—their products cost more than mass-market alternatives, but customers willingly pay the premium because they know they’re getting something special.

They’ve also been smart about diversification. While jam remains their core product, they’ve expanded into other preserves, fruit growing, and even tourism. Their farm shop and tea room have become destinations in their own right, allowing customers to experience the brand in person and understand the story behind the products.

The challenges they faced: As supermarkets grew more powerful, Wilkin & Sons had to fight for shelf space against cheaper alternatives. They could have compromised on quality to compete on price, but instead they focused on building direct relationships with customers and finding retailers who valued quality over margins.

They’ve also had to navigate the complexities of modern farming while maintaining traditional methods. Environmental regulations, labor costs, and climate change have all posed challenges, but they’ve found ways to adapt without compromising their core values.

Lesson: Being proudly local doesn’t mean thinking small. Stay true to your roots, but don’t be afraid to grow past the garden gate. Your local identity can be your biggest asset in a global marketplace—but only if you’re willing to share it with the world. The key is growing your reach without losing your soul.

3. Berry Bros. & Rudd (Since 1698) – Keep the Core, Evolve the Rest

Britain’s oldest wine and spirits merchant, Berry Bros. & Rudd started out as a grocer in St. James’s, London, in 1698. Since then, the business has remained in family hands for over 300 years—serving everyone from Lord Byron to the Royal Family, and somehow managing to stay relevant through three centuries of changing tastes and turbulent history.

What’s remarkable about Berry Bros. & Rudd isn’t just their age—it’s how they’ve managed to evolve while staying true to their essential character. They’ve moved with the times: embracing e-commerce, offering virtual tastings, and expanding their wine school. But their heart—knowledge, integrity, and great wine—has never changed.

Walk into their flagship shop on St. James’s Street, and you’ll see the same narrow rooms and creaking floors that have been there for centuries. But look closer, and you’ll notice modern touches: iPads for browsing their extensive wine database, temperature-controlled storage, and sophisticated logistics that can deliver wine anywhere in the world.

What they got right: Berry Bros. & Rudd understood early on that their expertise was their greatest asset. While anyone can sell wine, not everyone can guide customers to the perfect bottle for their taste and budget. They’ve invested heavily in education—both for their staff and their customers—creating a culture where knowledge is valued and shared.

They’ve also been brilliant at balancing tradition with innovation. When they launched their online store, they didn’t try to compete with discount retailers on price. Instead, they offered the same personal service online that customers received in their physical stores. Their virtual tastings during the pandemic weren’t just about selling wine—they were about maintaining the relationships that have always been at the heart of their business.

The challenges they faced: The wine trade has become increasingly competitive, with everyone from supermarkets to online retailers trying to grab market share. Berry Bros. & Rudd could have tried to compete on price, but they understood that would destroy everything that made them special.

They’ve also had to navigate changing drinking habits. As wine consumption patterns shifted, they could have panicked and tried to chase every trend. Instead, they focused on what they do best: helping people discover wines they’ll love, whether that’s a £15 bottle for a Tuesday night dinner or a £1,500 bottle for a special celebration.

Lesson: Don’t fear change. Just make sure you know which part of your business should never change. The most successful family businesses are like the best wine—they improve with age, but they never lose their essential character. Innovation should enhance your core strengths, not replace them.

4. Johnstons of Elgin (Since 1797) – Craftsmanship Never Goes Out of Style

Based in the Scottish town of Elgin, Johnstons of Elgin has been producing some of the world’s finest wool and cashmere for over two centuries. What makes them extraordinary isn’t just their longevity—it’s their commitment to controlling every aspect of production, from raw fiber to finished garment, under one roof. This level of vertical integration is almost unheard of in today’s fashion industry.

Still family-owned, they’ve managed to thrive in a world of fast fashion and global supply chains by doing exactly the opposite of what everyone else is doing. While competitors chase the latest trends and cut costs by outsourcing production, Johnstons has doubled down on quality, craftsmanship, and Scottish heritage.

Their commitment to quality and tradition has helped them stay relevant in a fast-fashion world, working with luxury brands while keeping their name proudly independent. They supply cashmere to some of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses, but they’ve never lost sight of their own brand and values.

What they got right: Johnstons understood that in a world of mass production, true craftsmanship becomes more valuable, not less. They’ve invested in their people, their processes, and their reputation for quality. When luxury brands need the finest cashmere, they come to Johnstons—not because they’re the cheapest, but because they’re the best.

They’ve also been smart about sustainability before it became fashionable. Their approach to manufacturing—using renewable energy, minimizing waste, and maintaining long-term relationships with suppliers—has positioned them well for a world that increasingly values environmental responsibility.

The challenges they faced: The fashion industry’s shift toward fast fashion could have been devastating for a company like Johnstons. When customers started expecting new styles every few weeks and bargain prices, it would have been easy to assume that quality and craftsmanship were no longer valued.

They’ve also had to compete with much larger companies that could offer lower prices through economies of scale. Rather than trying to match those prices, they focused on segments of the market where quality mattered more than cost.

Lesson: Excellence is a long game. If you do something well, protect it, invest in it, and let the world catch up. In a world of shortcuts and quick fixes, businesses that commit to excellence become increasingly rare—and valuable. Don’t be tempted to compromise your standards to chase short-term profits.

5. Shepherd Neame (Since 1698) – Respect the Next Generation’s Voice

Britain’s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame, is still run by descendants of the original founders. Based in Faversham, Kent, it’s known for classic ales like Spitfire and Bishops Finger—but also for embracing craft beer trends, modern pub refurbishments, and green energy initiatives.

What makes Shepherd Neame special isn’t just their brewing heritage—it’s how they’ve managed to stay relevant across three centuries by giving each generation the freedom to innovate while respecting the wisdom of those who came before. The family has made room for younger generations to bring new ideas, while older ones offer guidance—not a grip.

What they got right: Shepherd Neame understood that each generation brings something different to the table. The older generation brings experience, wisdom, and a deep understanding of what has worked in the past. The younger generation brings fresh ideas, new perspectives, and an instinct for what customers want now.

They’ve also been brilliant at balancing tradition with innovation in their products. While they still brew classic ales using traditional methods, they’ve also embraced the craft beer revolution, creating new products that appeal to younger drinkers without alienating their traditional customer base.

The challenges they faced: The British pub industry has been under pressure for decades, with changing drinking habits, rising costs, and competition from other forms of entertainment. Many family brewers have been forced to sell to larger companies or close altogether.

Shepherd Neame has also had to navigate the delicate balance between family members with different visions for the company. In many family businesses, these differences can lead to conflict and paralysis. But they’ve found ways to channel these differences into productive innovation.

The biggest lesson from their approach: They’ve learned that succession isn’t just about passing on control—it’s about passing on responsibility. Each generation has a duty to leave the business stronger than they found it, which means being willing to change and adapt while preserving the core values that have made the business successful.

Lesson: The next generation isn’t there to copy you—they’re there to build on what you started. Listen, trust, and give them space to lead. The most successful family businesses are those where each generation adds their own chapter to the story, rather than simply repeating what came before.

The Common Threads: What These Businesses Share

Looking across these five very different businesses, several common themes emerge:

They all understand their “why.” Each of these companies has a clear sense of purpose that goes beyond making money. Whether it’s preserving British heritage, creating exceptional products, or serving their communities, they’re driven by something deeper than profit.

They invest in relationships. All of these businesses have built strong relationships—with customers, suppliers, employees, and their communities. These relationships have sustained them through difficult times and provided opportunities for growth.

They’re patient. None of these businesses chases quick fixes or short-term gains. They take the long view, making decisions based on what’s best for the business over decades, not quarters.

They embrace their identity. Rather than trying to be everything to everyone, these businesses have embraced what makes them unique and built their strategies around their strengths.

They balance tradition with innovation. All of them have found ways to honor their heritage while adapting to changing times. They understand that tradition without innovation leads to irrelevance, but innovation without tradition leads to loss of identity.

The Lessons for Today’s Family Businesses

So what can modern family businesses learn from these centuries-old success stories?

Start with your story. Every family business has a unique story, but not every family business knows how to tell it. Your story isn’t just about where you came from—it’s about where you’re going and why it matters.

Invest in quality. In a world of mass production and race-to-the-bottom pricing, quality becomes a differentiator. If you’re going to compete on quality, commit to it fully. Half-measures won’t work.

Build for the long term. Family businesses have an advantage over public companies—they don’t have to worry about quarterly earnings reports. Use this advantage to make decisions based on what’s best for the business over the long term.

Embrace your local roots. In an increasingly global world, having strong local roots can be a competitive advantage. Don’t try to be everywhere at once—be the best at what you do where you are.

Prepare the next generation. Succession isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s a process that takes years of preparation, communication, and trust-building. Start early, be patient, and remember that every generation has something valuable to contribute.

Stay true to your values. Your values aren’t just words on a wall—they’re the foundation of everything you do. When faced with difficult decisions, let your values guide you.

The Challenges Ahead

Of course, running a family business in the 21st century brings new challenges that these historic companies are still learning to navigate:

Digital transformation: Moving from traditional ways of doing business to digital platforms while maintaining personal relationships and quality standards.

Sustainability expectations: Customers, employees, and regulators increasingly expect businesses to be environmentally and socially responsible.

Talent competition: Attracting and retaining good people when they have more options than ever before.

Global competition: Competing with companies from around the world that might have lower costs or different regulatory environments.

Generational differences: Managing businesses where different generations have different values, communication styles, and expectations.

Regulatory complexity: Navigating an increasingly complex web of regulations, tax laws, and compliance requirements.

But here’s the thing about family businesses—they’ve been dealing with change and uncertainty for generations. The specific challenges might be different, but the fundamental skills needed to navigate them—adaptability, resilience, and a long-term perspective—are the same ones that have always made family businesses successful.

Final Thoughts

UK family businesses are built not just on spreadsheets and stocks—but on stories, values, and a whole lot of tea and compromise. These real-life firms show that success across generations doesn’t come from sticking rigidly to the past—but from knowing what to carry forward, and what to leave behind.

The businesses we’ve looked at aren’t successful because they’re old—they’re old because they’ve been successful at adapting while staying true to their core purpose. They’ve understood that in a world of constant change, the businesses that survive are those that can evolve while maintaining their identity.

They’ve also understood something that many modern businesses forget: that business is ultimately about people. Customers aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet—they’re individuals with needs, preferences, and emotions. Employees aren’t just resources to be optimized—they’re people with families, dreams, and talents. Suppliers aren’t just cost centers—they’re partners in creating something valuable.

So if your business is a little chaotic, a little personal, and deeply meaningful—you’re in good company. The best family businesses have always been a bit messy, because they’re human enterprises run by humans for humans. The trick is channeling that humanity into something that creates value for everyone involved.

And if your boardroom also doubles as your kitchen table… welcome to the club. Some of the most important business decisions in history have been made over a cup of tea in someone’s kitchen. There’s something to be said for doing business in a place where everyone feels comfortable enough to speak their mind—even if it does make the meetings a bit longer and occasionally requires someone to do the washing up.

The future of family business in the UK is bright, but it won’t be easy. The businesses that thrive will be those that learn from the past while embracing the future, that honor their traditions while writing new chapters, and that remember that the best businesses are built not just on what they do, but on why they do it.