Many family businesses have been at the forefront of ESG without realising it, as the ethos of a family businesses is usually rooted in the E, S or G – particularly the E and S as the role in communities is often an important part of the values of a businesses, as well as taking care of the business and its people through different cycles and generations. Being able to talk about this aspect of your business will add value and increase the chance of a successful sale.

Whether you are planning for succession or planning for a sale, the key thing is to make sure there is transparency within the family and to be able to sell the vision of the values and the culture that have led to the success of the business.

Stuart Hatcher is partner in the corporate team at Forsters LLP