Every business is unique in its own way, but few have the unique distinction of having been run by the same family for generations. A family business is one that has been owned and operated by the same family for multiple generations. The longest running family company in the world is the Hoshi Ryokan in Japan. Founded in the year 718, Hoshi Ryokan is the oldest family-run business in the world in continuous operation, having been passed down through 46 generations of the same family.
Hoshi Ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn located in the Awazu Onsen area of Komatsu City in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its traditional architecture, hot springs, irimochi (a type of traditional Japanese meal served in a box), and its long history. The inn still maintains its traditional Japanese style, with tatami floors and futons for sleeping. It also has a garden, outdoor bath, and a beautiful view.
The inn was established by the first proprietor, Fujiwara Mahito, in the year 718. Since then, the inn has been passed down through the generations of the same family, making it the longest running family company in the world. It has survived numerous wars and natural disasters, and continues to operate today.
Hoshi Ryokan now offers different types of accommodation, including rooms with private hot spring baths, and rooms with open-air hot spring baths. They also offer a variety of traditional meals and activities.
The Hoshi Ryokan is a testament to the longevity of family businesses and their ability to survive over centuries. The inn has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest running family company in the world, a true testament to the power of family businesses.
What is the History of the Longest-Running Family Business?
If you think about the history of the longest-running family business, you may think of some of the oldest companies in the world, such as the Rothschilds, the Medicis, or the Habsburgs. But the longest-running family business is actually Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation. Founded in 1717, the Sumitomo Corporation has been in business for over 300 years, making it the world’s longest-running family-owned business.
The Sumitomo Corporation is a multinational company that has a presence in over 30 countries and regions around the world. It has a wide range of interests, from natural resources to industrial products and services, and its core business areas include chemicals, metals, energy, electronics, and information and communications technology. It also has investments in finance, real estate, construction, and other industries.
Over the centuries, the Sumitomo Corporation has been led by 15 generations of the Sumitomo family. The current president and CEO, Masao Yoshida, is the 16th generation of the family to lead the company.
The company has experienced tremendous growth since its founding, and its success has been attributed to the company’s commitment to hard work, innovation, and quality. This dedication has helped the company survive and thrive through wars, recessions, and other challenges.
Today, the Sumitomo Corporation is one of the largest companies in Japan and a leader in global business. It is an example of how a family business can grow and succeed over the centuries if it is managed properly.
This article provided an overview of the longest-running family business in the world – Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation. It has been in business for centuries and is a prime example of what can be achieved with hard work, dedication, and innovation.
The Top 10 Longest-Running Family Companies in the World
Families have been in business since the dawn of business itself. Even though the structures have changed, family-run companies remain a dominant force in the global economy. Here is a look at the top 10 longest-running family companies in the world.
In first place is Zildjian, the world’s oldest family-owned business. Founded in 1623 by Avedis Zildjian, the company is now run by the 14th generation of the family and is a leading manufacturer of cymbals and percussion instruments.
Second is the Italian wine maker Antinori, which has been passed down through the Antinori family since 1385. They have consistently produced some of the highest quality wines in the world, earning them the title of “First Family of Italian Wine.”
Third is the German brewery Warsteiner. Founded in 1753 by the Cramer family, the brewery is now run by the ninth generation of the family. Warsteiner produces some of the most popular beers in Germany.
Fourth is the Swiss bank Wegelin & Co., which was founded in 1741 by brothers Johann and Caspar Wegelin. The bank is now run by the eighth generation of the family and is one of the oldest private banks in the world.
Fifth is the luxury watch maker Patek Philippe. Founded in 1839 by Antoine Norbert de Patek and Francois Czapek, the company is now run by the fifth generation of the family. Patek Philippe is renowned for producing some of the most exquisite and complicated watches in the world.
Sixth is the Japanese sake brewer Yoshida Shuzo, which was founded in 1740 by the Yoshida family. The brewery is now run by the 15th generation of the family and is renowned for producing some of the best sake in Japan.
Seventh is the German sausage maker Wurstkultur, which was founded in 1617 by the Wurstkultur family. The company is now run by the 16th generation of the family and is known for its traditional German sausages.
Eighth is the French fashion house Hermès, which was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès. The company is now run by the sixth generation of the family and is renowned for its high-end fashion and leather goods.
Ninth is the Scottish whisky distillery Macallan, which was founded in 1824 by Alexander Reid. The distillery is now run by the ninth generation of the family and is renowned for producing some of the best single malt whisky in the world.
Tenth is the Italian pasta maker Barilla, which was founded in 1877 by Pietro Barilla. The company is now run by the fifth generation of the family and is one of the world’s leading pasta makers.
These are the top 10 longest-running family companies in the world. While their structures and operations may have changed over the years, these companies have remained family-run for centuries, a testament to their success and resilience.
The longest running family company is the Japanese brewery, Hoshi Group, which has been in business since 718.
The longest running family company is over 1300 years old.
The longest running family company is the Hoshi Group.
The longest running family company is a Japanese brewery.
The longest running family company is located in Japan.
The longest running family company is from Japan.
The longest running family company started in 718.
The longest running family company is a Japanese brewery that was founded in 718 by a Buddhist monk.
The longest running family company is the oldest in the world and has been in continuous operation for more than 1300 years.
The longest running family company offers traditional Japanese beer, sake, and other beverages.