Family businesses in 2025: Between tradition and turbulence

Written by: Pieter van den Berg

December is a time of looking back. Annual reviews follow, athletes of theyear are chosen and entrepreneurial awards are presented. December is alsothe time when entrepreneurs look back. As the world heads toward Christmas, family businesses reflect on a year full of challenges and opportunities. 2025was no ordinary year: supplies were erratic, political uncertainty pressuredstrategic choices and new rules of the game made business more complex thanever. Who could have predicted in advance that import duties and geopolitical
tensions would have such a direct impact on day-to-day operations?

It is precisely in this turbulence that the strength of the family business is demonstrated. The involvementof family and employees, the ability to change gear quickly and the longterm vision form the foundation. But business is more than numbers and
strategy. It is also emotion. Selling a business, succession within thefamily, or letting go of a life’s work: these are steps beyondspreadsheets and contracts. The question “What do you do next?” is at least as
important as “What does it deliver?”

This year Sophista celebrated its 25th anniversary. A milestone that underscoreshow important good guidance is in acquisitions and successions. In a fastchanging world, personal attention makes all the difference. Themes such assustainability and employee engagement are no longer optional, butdetermining success in sales. How is sustainability embedded in youroperations? And how do you make employees feel seen and valued
?

As the Christmas tree beckons and the world takes a break, it’s time to
count blessings. Reflect on the past year, celebrate successes and learnfrom challenges. Because one thing is certain: in a world of uncertainty, the
family business remains a beacon of continuity and meaning.

As an entrepreneur, do you dare to dwell on what really matters? What are you leaving behind for the
next generation? Food for thought. I wish you happy holidays!

This article appeared in the winter edition of INTO business Haarlemmermeer Schiphol.