Emotional dimensions of intra-family transmission: Moroccan Shipping, a team adrift

Abstract

Subject area

Intergenerational transmission is a paramount managerial and patrimonial issue. Although planning and governance tools are being developed and spread in business, the handling of emotions often remains the key to a successful process. It is within the framework of the paternalistic Moroccan society that we are led to question the psychology and emotions of the stakeholders in the transmission of this small services business.

Study level/applicability

Masters students in Family Business, Management Science, Entrepreneurship, Small Business Management.

Case overview

After 19 years of existence, Moroccan Shipping is confronted at the beginning of 2010 to the issue of the sustainability of the family business. The founder directs his affair with an iron fist, and his sons, who were educated abroad, are determined not to get fooled. The father claims he wishes to be relieved from daily operations and handover part of his responsibilities to his second son. At the same time, the youngest doesn't feel like he fits in the present firm's configuration and is ready to quit.

Expected learning outcomes

This case study will lead users to work on several managerial dimensions of small family businesses in emerging economies. At first, the entrepreneur's traits might be highlighted, as they deeply affect the way the succession process may be handled. However, as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) specificity, the Moroccan family system will be taken into consideration to better analyse both the incumbent and the successor behaviours. Management tools may then be discussed to help with the transfer of both power and ownership in family businesses.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Citation

Minialai, C. and Hirigoyen, G. (2014), "Emotional dimensions of intra-family transmission: Moroccan Shipping, a team adrift", Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies, Vol. 4 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/EEMCS-01-2014-0010

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