Title: International convergence and divergence on family entrepreneurship problems: the case of family firms in Japan

Authors: Katsuyuki Kamei; Teruo Shinato; Leo-Paul Dana

Addresses: Kansai University, Faculty of Societal Safety Science, 7-1 Hakubai-cho, Takatsuki, Osaka, 569-1098, Japan ' Graduate School of Social and Cultural Studies, Nihon University, 4-25 Nakatomi minami, Tokorozawa, 359-0003, Saitama, Japan ' Montpellier Business School, 2300 Avenue des Moulins, 34185 Montpellier Cedex 4, France

Abstract: This study examines the current situation of Japanese family firms. We present evidence from Japan, with a focus on longevity and succession problems. Despite the existence of long-established firms that have survived through the centuries, research on family firms in Japan has barely begun. We build on the few existing studies in this field. We contend that the particularity of Japan can provide interesting inputs to the field of family firms. Supported by the findings, this study suggests a new line of research and contributes to the following: 1) rethinking the definition of family firms; 2) assessment of the status quo based on a comparative approach between Western countries and Japan; 3) stock-taking of Japanese centenary firms; 4) classification of family business issues, especially those related to succession.

Keywords: family firms; business longevity; Japan; family succession; international convergence; international divergence; family entrepreneurship; family businesses.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESB.2017.082926

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business, 2017 Vol.30 No.4, pp.590 - 607

Received: 21 Dec 2014
Accepted: 04 Apr 2016
Published online: 15 Mar 2017 *

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