Family firms forecast 84% revenue growth by 2030 while revisiting ownership and investment strategies
Despite an environment rife with economic uncertainty, family-owned businesses are advancing at a remarkable pace and undergoing significant structural change, according to the latest research from Deloitte Private.
Family-controlled companies with at least US$100 million in turnover now represent 22% of all businesses worldwide in that tier and their number is expected to rise 22% between 2020 and 2030. Over the same period their aggregate revenue is projected to climb by 84% from approximately $16 trillion in 2020 to $29 trillion in 2030. That beats the anticipated 59% growth rate of non-family firms.
This acceleration comes despite 68% of family firms viewing economic uncertainty as their top external risk, and 70% expecting broad trade tariffs to damage either the economy or their operations. Other major concerns include cyber threats, geopolitical instability and rising input costs.
The firm’s “Family Business Insights Series: Defining the Family Business Landscape, 2025” examines responses from 1,587 family enterprises across 36 countries, supplemented by in-depth interviews with 30 senior executives.
Technology investment, including in artificial intelligence, emerges as the leading growth lever for family firms, with 40% identifying it as a key strategy. Diversification is also on the move with 36% broadening their revenue base by launching new products or services.
On the expansion front, more than half plan to move into Europe over the next two years (51%), followed by North America (48%) and Asia-Pacific (40%).
“Globalization, favorable economic conditions, and rapid technological innovation have propelled family businesses into an era of strong, sustained growth,” says Dr Rebecca Gooch, global head of Insights at Deloitte Private. “However, this growth is unfolding against a backdrop of increasing complexity and volatility, driven by rising economic and geopolitical uncertainty, cyber threats, surging input costs, and talent shortages.”
The report reveals that a significant shift in ownership structure is underway as well with 26% of family firms anticipating bringing in outside investors or private equity in the next 3-5 years while 19% expect to increase non-family management ownership, 12% plan to go public, and 3% intend to sell the business outright.
With nearly three-quarters of respondents in first (27%) or second (45%) generation leadership, the generational wealth transfer is front of mind.
