Addressing Family Business Challenges

Abstract

This case study illustrates the story of Raja Garage Ltd., a small car repair services company based in the UAE. It begins with Izat Raja’s dream to start his own business and follows his journey in pursuit of turning his dream into reality. Shortly after the establishment of his car workshop, Izat is joined by his nephew Waleed, and together they face the obstacles that arise on their road to success. Years later, Izat’s only son, Kamran, also joins Raja Garage Ltd. to find out that the company is slowly regressing and may be on the brink of failure. Kamran decides to take over the family business and shares his ideas with his father, ideas that he believes could salvage the company. Recently recovering from the impact of the financial crisis, Raja Garage Ltd. has proven its capacity to overcome multiple challenges throughout its years of existence. Yet, the company’s current survival and future development hinge upon the family members’ ability to make the right decisions.Keywordsfamily businesssuccession managementfamily conflictsUAEcar workshopbusiness challengesfirm survival