Family Firms in Postwar Britain and Germany: Competing Approaches to Business

This book explores the culture and conduct of six small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in England and West Germany from 1945 to the late-1970s, comparing German and British varieties of capitalism in action. It finds that the principles of a close identification with the surrounding region and a patriarchal culture within a family atmosphere were adopted in practice, but that British companies were less well managed and had to operate within a less supportive external environment. Historical lessons learned from the management of these companies still resonate today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 362 pages
Publication date: 21 February 2023
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

This comprehensive study delves into the culture and conduct of six small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in England and West Germany from 1945 to the late-1970s, utilizing a wealth of archives from both countries. As the first book-length exploration of SMEs in a comparative, transnational context, it offers valuable insights into the evolution of German and British varieties of capitalism. The study reveals that these varieties of capitalism were not fixed or static but rather underwent significant changes as they evolved over time.

The German companies examined formed part of the Mittelstand, a unique family-owned sector prevalent in German-speaking countries. The book explores whether the principles of close identification with the surrounding region and a patriarchal culture within a family atmosphere were adopted in practice during this period and whether they remain applicable today. To compare and contrast, Paulson compares the Mittelstand to British SMEs, shedding light on how their approaches differed.

The book also examines the ecosystems that surrounded businesses in both countries, focusing on factors such as funding and vocational education. It concludes that while the potential for a British Mittelstand existed, British companies faced challenges in terms of management and operated within a less supportive external environment compared to their German counterparts.

The management lessons learned from these companies continue to resonate today, providing valuable insights into contemporary differences in business performance. This book appeals to scholars and students of twentieth-century business and economic history, as well as management studies, offering a rich and insightful perspective on the evolution of capitalism and its impact on business practices.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783277582