Where patience takes root: 125 years of building a family business at Frank P Matthews
key takeaways.
- Succession planning is most effective when it begins early. At Frank P Matthews, a tree nursery in its fourth generation of family ownership, a 19-year transition allowed leadership and responsibility to develop gradually across generations
- In family businesses, alignment between generations is rarely accidental. Here, shared decision-making reflects years of working together, clear responsibilities, and mutual trust
- Patient capital allocation strengthens resilience. In this case, acquisitions and investment decisions focussed on long-term capability rather than rapid expansion
- Sustainability and stewardship underpin longevity. From peat-free growing to land care, operational decisions at Frank P Matthews protect both the business and future generations.
From succession to sustainability, the story of Frank P Matthews reflects how long-term thinking helps family businesses build resilience across generations.
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Questions every family-owned business should consider
Succession & Governance
- Do we have a clearly defined and documented succession plan?
- Are roles and responsibilities across family and management clearly understood?
- Do we have a governance framework, such as a family charter, in place?
Ownership & Exit
- How is ownership structured, and is it formally documented?
- How are family members compensated, and is this perceived as fair?
- What happens if a family member wishes to exit the business?
Wealth & Planning
- To what extent is personal wealth separate from business assets?
- Have we planned adequately for inheritance taxes and intergenerational transfer?
External Support
- Do we have trusted external advisors to support difficult conversations?
- Are we actively preparing the next generation for future responsibility?
Planting for the long term
important information
This is a marketing communication issued by Bank Lombard Odier & Co Ltd (hereinafter “Lombard Odier”).
It is not intended for distribution, publication, or use in any jurisdiction where such distribution, publication, or use would be unlawful, nor is it aimed at any person or entity to whom it would be unlawful to address such a marketing communication.
