The world’s oldest continuously operating family business ended its impressive run last year. Japanese temple builder Kongo Gumi, in operation under the founders’ descendants since 578, succumbed to excess debt and an unfavorable business climate in 2006.
39 generations of your family run the business. How would you like to be the guy that screws it up?
Fortunately for him, the previous 38 generations are probably dead. Otherwise, I’m thinking he’ll be taking a pass on joining everyone for Thanksgiving dinner next year.