Sustaining a Family Jewel

Guiding American manufacturing families in the art of preserving their companies and family legacies

“Overalls to overalls in three generations.”

--A well-known saying about the trajectory of family companies when thoughtful planning about generational succession doesn’t happen

Family-owned companies are the lifeblood of the American economy. Let’s make sure that they outlive us when we are gone.

A team of dedicated manufacturing professionals working collaboratively to build high-quality products

Break the “Three Generation Curse”

You may be thinking like I did that, while generational succession is a goal to aspire toward, it probably will happen anyway without thoughtful and early planning. You also may just not want to face the emotional trauma that can attend bringing up a subject that might throw a family into turmoil. That is why addressing generational succession as early as possible is essential.

You may be familiar with the TV series Succession which deals with generational succession at the worst possible time—when the patriarch is 80 years old. Or you might be personally familiar with a family company story where the family has in place specific steps to ensure generational succession. Through steps we take, we can break the curse.

Get the Book: Sustaining a Family Jewel

Preserve your legacy and secure the future of your family business with Sustaining a Family Jewel.

Family-owned manufacturing companies are the heart of America’s economy, yet many falter when it comes to passing the torch. With drama often taking center stage, as seen in series like Succession, the importance of a well-planned generational transition cannot be overstated.

In this book, you will:

  • Master the Generational Succession Cycle to prevent the common “overalls to overalls in three generations” pitfall.

  • Understand why maintaining your family business is crucial to preserving its legacy and value.

  • Learn the commitment needed for successful succession and the risks of neglecting it.

  • Discover how your family business contributes to a stronger economy and society.

  • Explore strategies to keep your manufacturing company within the family rather than selling it off.

Sustaining a Family Jewel provides a practical framework for ensuring your family-owned business thrives across generations. Don’t leave your legacy to chance—read on to discover how to make your family jewel last.

Sustaining the Family Jewel lays out the framework for effective generational succession

1. Set the FOUNDATION

2. Think Through the Period BEFORE the Transition

3. Make the TRANSITION Happen

4. Create New Success AFTER the Transition

About Me

I am Davis Given Anderson, founder of The Manufacturers' Collective. A company founded by my grandfather celebrated its 100th Anniversary in January 2023. Having been in manufacturing ownership and management for over 40 years, I fully understand the importance and complexity that comes along with family-owned businesses. 

Helping manufacturing family owners who dedicate their lives to making America stronger and the American people more prosperous is my passion.

Let’s have a talk about the challenges you face and the decisions you are making.


Not Ready?

You may not be ready to engage with us and have a conversation. But that doesn’t mean you can’t begin to think about and plan for generational succession. Download our free infographic: “Five Critical Steps to Securing Your Family’s Manufacturing Legacy.”

It is vital that we support our family businesses and make sure they outlive us when we are gone.