Von Mag. Johannes Thaller, Assoz. Univ.-Prof. Dr. Stefan Mayr und Univ.-Prof. Dr. Birgit Feldbauer-Durstmüller.

Abstract:

Due to their specific characteristics, family firms (FFs) are considered to be especially vulnerable to crises and are associated with particularities in dealing with crises. However, a crisis situation does not necessarily lead to business failure, but often also serves as an opportunity for new growth after a successful reorganization. Nonetheless, as our literature review shows, a comprehensive and processual consideration of crises in FFs remains lacking. Thus, we follow systems theory in conducting a qualitative-empirical study on causes of crises, reorganization measures, and the outcome of crises in FFs. Drawing on a multiple case study of 14 Austrian FFs, our findings indicate distinctive characteristics in dealing with crises. The family as well as the owners have a decisive influence on the course of the crisis, which can have both positive and negative implications. In conclusion, we derive occasion-related recommendations for dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Der Beitrag ist im Juni 2021 in der Zeitschrift Betriebswirtschafltiche Forschung und Praxis (BFuP) erschienen.