7 Powerful Lessons from Britain’s Oldest Family Businesses

7 Powerful Lessons from Britain's Oldest Family Businesses

By Colloco Marketing – Modern Marketing Made for the Business You've Built

Some business strategies are hashed out in boardrooms, while others are handed down through personal stories and firm handshakes.

At Colloco, we proudly work with companies where legacy is not just a buzzword — it’s the foundation. These businesses, often run by second, third, or even fourth-generation owners, carry more than just a product. They embody a mindset and a distinct set of values. They exude a quiet confidence that endures beyond fleeting trends.

In a world fixated on what comes next, we believe in the power of enduring principles.

Here are seven exceptional British family businesses. Their longevity is built on wisdom that’s not merely passed down, but actively lived.

1. “Quality remembered long after price is forgotten.” – Shepherd Neame

Britain’s oldest brewer has thrived for nearly 400 years without chasing trends.

When the craft beer movement surged, consultants urged Shepherd Neame to cut corners and modernise. Instead, the company doubled down on tradition. They draw water from their own well, source Kentish hops, and brew in small batches using techniques refined over centuries.

Jonathan Neame, the fifth-generation CEO, articulates this best: “Every generation faces the temptation to compromise quality for short-term gain. Every generation ultimately realizes that quality is our most sustainable competitive advantage.”

Family Lesson: Shortcuts fade. Quality endures.

2. “Do a few things — but do them better than anyone.” – James Purdey & Sons

Since 1814, this iconic British gunmaker has focused on one mission: crafting the world's finest sporting firearms.

When Richard Purdey took over the helm in the 1990s, he resisted the pressure to expand into a lifestyle brand. Instead, he stayed true to his great-grandfather’s wise words: "Do a few things, but do them better than anyone."

Creating each Purdey shotgun takes over 800 hours — entirely by hand in their London workshop. The outcome is a two-year waiting list and an unmatched reputation.

Family Lesson: True luxury isn’t breadth; it’s depth.

3. “Adapt to survive — but never sacrifice who you are.” – R. Twining and Company

Since 1706, Twinings has navigated centuries of change — from empire to espresso culture — while remaining true to its roots.

During the influx of cheaper teas in the 1980s, many brands opted to cut quality. Twinings chose a different path. They introduced single-estate blends and enhanced sourcing, educating customers about what makes their tea exceptional.

Stephen Twining, the tenth generation to lead, states: “We modernised around our values, never at the expense of them.”

Family Lesson: Adaptation is a strategy. Identity is an anchor.

4. “Master your craft before mastering your growth.” – C. Hoare & Co.

Founded in 1672, C. Hoare & Co. stands as the UK’s oldest privately owned bank. It continues to be run by the Hoare family after more than 12 generations. While most banks pursued rapid growth, the Hoares embraced a different philosophy: deliberate, disciplined stewardship.

Their focus remains on a single branch in Fleet Street, where clients are known by name, not by account number. With no sales targets, they prioritize long-lasting relationships and prudent decisions. Alexander Hoare elucidates their philosophy: “We believe in growing slowly and sustainably. This bank is a trust, passed from one generation to the next.”

By avoiding risky ventures, Hoare’s has weathered economic crises, including the 2008 financial crash, which claimed many competitors.

Family Lesson: Sustainable success stems from deep expertise and steady consistency — not chasing every trend.

5. “Know the worth of what you make.” – Toye, Kenning & Spencer

This British manufacturer has crafted medals, regalia, and military insignia since 1685.

As manufacturing shifted overseas for lower costs, Toye chose to remain local. They preserved vital skills like hand-embroidery and enamelling in their Midlands workshops.

Fiona Toye, representing the eighth generation, recalls, “People said we were mad to stay in the UK. But we understood the true value of what we produced — beyond materials to encompass meaning.”

Today, Toye supplies everything from Olympic medals to coronation regalia.

Family Lesson: Your greatest cost may turn out to be your most significant asset.

6. “Steady hands build lasting legacies.” – Rix Group

Founded in 1873 in Hull, Rix Group transitioned from a shipping company to a diversified energy and logistics enterprise under six generations of family leadership.

As North Sea industries declined, the Rix family stayed calm and adapted. They invested in renewable energy logistics and marine services while maintaining their core identity.

Today, the business employs over 1,000 individuals and generates nearly £600 million in revenue — a clear testament that patient, purpose-driven adaptation pays off.

Family Lesson: Change purposefully. Evolve while staying rooted.

7. “Quality is our family tradition.” – Walkers Shortbread

Founded in 1898 in Aberlour, Scotland, Walkers Shortbread set out to bake "the world’s finest shortbread." Remarkably, the original recipe remains unchanged, consisting only of flour, butter, sugar, and salt.

Sir Jim Walker, who joined the business in 1962, successfully expanded it from a village bakery into a global brand, reaching over 100 countries. However, this growth never compromised their commitment to tradition.

He stated: “We are a family company run by bakers, not accountants. The product is everything.” Walkers consistently resisted the urge to replace real butter with cheaper alternatives, even during wartime shortages. They embraced new products without sacrificing their uncompromising quality standards.

Now, Sir Jim’s nephew, Nicky Walker, leads the business into its fourth generation. Yet the values persist: integrity, simplicity, and pride in excelling at one thing.

Family Lesson: Consistency and care transform a family recipe into a cherished national treasure.

So, What's Your Lesson?

If you manage a family business, you likely have deep-seated truths embedded in your experiences.

• A phrase your grandfather often repeated

• A standard your mother steadfastly enforced

• A method that has always felt non-negotiable

  
  

At Colloco, we go beyond building brands. We tell stories — your story. This narrative has been passed down, not just to honor the past, but to empower the future.

Your legacy is more than just a logo. It’s the way you conduct business.

And we believe that deserves to be recognized, remembered, and chosen.

Ready to Showcase Your Family Business?

Want to showcase your family business with clarity and pride?

Let’s discuss how IdentityKit™ can help you share your story—creating a brand as timeless as your values.

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