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Business succession in German SMEs: continuity, capability, and renewal

Succession is more than a legal transaction: it is a multi-year transition of knowledge, leadership, customers, and strategic direction.
Published: 2026-07-17 Updated: 2026-07-17 Researched by Business Innovation Hub Author: Business Innovation Hub Editorial Team

Succession is an operating transition

A succession succeeds when customers, employees, critical knowledge, leadership routines, and decision rights are transferred deliberately. The legal and financial transaction is important, but it does not replace the operational handover. <a class="cite" href="#ref-1">[1]</a>

Questions to clarify early

  • Which relationships and capabilities are still person-dependent?
  • Which leadership responsibilities should transfer gradually?
  • What future strategy requires renewal rather than simple continuation?
  • How will employees, customers, and key partners receive clear communication?

A structured learning and documentation approach makes the transition more resilient for everyone involved.

References

  1. Business Innovation Hub (2026). Unternehmensnachfolge – Herausforderung und Chance für den deutschen Mittelstand