NATIONAL business support and lobby group, the Forum of Private Business, is seeking entrepreneurs to take part in a focus group to be run with the Open University to investigate the key issues facing family businesses.

The research is set to take place at the Ruskin Chambers, Drury Lane, Knutsford, on Wednesday June 26.

It follows earlier interviews carried out in Spain by the Open University’s business school. The results of the two studies will be compared and contrasted to see what are the similarities and differences between family businesses in Spain and the UK.

The owners of family businesses and their siblings will have the chance to discuss a range of subjects, from communication to succession and continuity planning. All information will be gathered anonymously.

“Traditionally, small family firms are seen as having inherent strengths and weaknesses. This focus group will be an opportunity to put those notions to the test,” said the Tom Parry, research manager at the not-for-profit Forum of Private Business. “Also, using comparisons with earlier research we will be able to gauge any similarities or differences in the attitudes and business processes displayed by family firms in the UK and Spain.

“We are delighted to be working with the Open University in this important and under-explored area of small business research. We need family businesses to help us out by volunteering to take part.”