Two brothers sharing ownership in a fourth-generation concrete business had a bitter falling out over an unlikely issue: a sailboat. The older sibling accused the younger of dipping into the till to support his racing habit. The younger brother struck back by issuing an ultimatum: buy out my share of the company, or sell me yours. An ugly fight ensued, affecting the business, the family, the employees, and the customers.
Why Fights Erupt in Family Businesses
Lack of boundaries and formal structure create potential for nasty (and lasting) disagreements.
July 09, 2013