Generational transition in family businesses

The process of generational transition within a company is a decisive moment to ensure the long-term success of a business. This topic was discussed during the Capital Group conference “Generational transition in family businesses: the role of the advisor”, held on the 6th of May, as part of “Salone del Risparmio 2026”, the leading Italian event dedicated to asset management, now in its 16th edition, organized by Assogestioni. 

During the meeting, the generational transition was examined as a complex process in which advisors can play a crucial role in guiding families through strategic decisions, preventing conflicts and safeguarding business continuity. Matteo Gianesini, CEO of Gianesini Erminio, took part in the discussion - upon invitation of Capital Group and Roberta Gastaldello - to address a topic that is becoming increasingly central in family businesses: “A valuable opportunity to explore the role of financial advisors in fostering dialogue between generations, facilitating informed decision-making, and supporting families during key moments of change – claimed Matteo -. It was an important opportunity for discussion in front of more than three hundred professionals.” 

The generational handover of the historic transport company is an exemple of entrepreneurial longevity: the business has surpassed a century of history, celebrating the transition to the fourth generation of the Gianesini family, thanks to solid administration. Successfully managed, the company has recently closed fiscal years with record profits and more than 40,000 shipments per year. With the arrival of the fourth generation of the Gianesini family, the company reinforce its future commitment to its clients, ensuring that the same values will continue to guide the company in the years to come. 

During the meeting in Milan, the key aspects of an effective business transition from one generation to another were explored, with academic contribution - represented by Fabio Quarato, lecturer at Bocconi University - as well as from the associative sector with Giovanna Gregori, Executive Director of AIDAF - Italian Family Business (of which Gianesini is also a member), the banking sector with Renato Miraglia, Head of Wealth Management & Private Banking at UniCredit, and finally Claudio Stefani from Acetaia Giusti, who shared another entrepreneurial experience.