Dynamic capabilities in a sixth-generation family firm: Entrepreneurship and the Bibby Line

Jones, O., Ghobadian, A., O'Regan, N. and Antcliff, V. 2013. Dynamic capabilities in a sixth-generation family firm: Entrepreneurship and the Bibby Line. Business History. 55 (6), pp. 910-941. https://doi.org/10.1080/00076791.2012.744590

TitleDynamic capabilities in a sixth-generation family firm: Entrepreneurship and the Bibby Line
AuthorsJones, O., Ghobadian, A., O'Regan, N. and Antcliff, V.
Abstract

In this paper we draw on the theory of dynamic capabilities to examine development of the only surviving family-owned Liverpool shipping company. The Bibby Line was founded in 1807 to take advantage of the growing sea-trade based in Liverpool. The company remained in shipping until the mid-1960s, when a series of external crises led the owner, Derek Bibby, to begin a process of diversification. In the last 50 years, the Bibby Line has grown into a £1bn business with interests in retail, distribution and financial services as well as a continuing commitment to shipping. Our intention is to demonstrate how multigenerational ownership contributes to the creation of dynamic capabilities in family firms. The distinctive nature of Bibby as a long-standing family business is related to unique assets such as patient capital, flexible governance structures as well as the ability to mobilise social and human capital.

JournalBusiness History
Journal citation55 (6), pp. 910-941
ISSN0007-6791
Year2013
PublisherTaylor & Francis
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1080/00076791.2012.744590
Publication dates
Published2013

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