Ep2. The Business. The Family. The Future. Higgins Waste & Recycling.

Higgins Waste, a leading waste management company in Ireland, has successfully navigated the complexities of family business succession, transitioning leadership from founders John and Jacqueline Higgins to their sons, Sean and Brian. The discussion highlights the importance of preparing the next generation for leadership roles while balancing family dynamics and business needs. John reflects on the company's humble beginnings in the early 1980s, emphasizing a strong work ethic and commitment to service as key drivers of growth.

The conversation also delves into the challenges faced during the transition, including the emotional difficulty of letting go of control and the necessity of establishing clear governance structures. Jacqueline shares insights on the importance of open communication within the family to ensure that everyone is aligned on the business's future direction. Sean discusses the value of gaining external experience before returning to the family business, which has equipped him with the skills needed to manage modern challenges, such as compliance and regulation.

Laura Dillon, an expert in family business succession planning, underscores the significance of early planning and effective communication in ensuring a smooth transition. She advises business owners to seek professional guidance to navigate the complexities of tax implications and to establish a framework that supports both family harmony and business continuity. The discussion serves as a valuable resource for family businesses contemplating succession, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and collaboration among family members.

In Episode 2 of Behind the Business, David Moran meets John, Jacqueline and Seán Higgins of Higgins Waste & Recycling, a family business spanning three generations. What began in the 1960s with a farm tractor collecting cardboard has grown into one of Kerry’s leading waste management and recycling companies, employing over 20 people. John and Jacqueline have spent more than four decades building the business, and now, as they prepare to hand the reins to their son Seán, they share their story of family, hard work, succession and securing the future of a business built to last.