The Schiffers have been involved in CAFE for the past two and a half years, and Anita agrees that membership in the Association provided support when it was needed most. “It was great for our family to have confirmation from the Association that we were on the right path with our succession plan and had a firm foundation for further growth.Membership in CAFE has really helped us as a family business, especially considering that I am the only child actively working in the business. Advice from CAFE has meant that we have incorporated useful elements and made some improvements to our existing succession plan – all of which has seen the whole family being more involved.”

Schiffer Properties Corporation, Vancouver Island Chapter

“I have been a member of a CAFE Personal Advisory Group and found it really interesting. I was surprised to hear so many other family businesses face the same problems and successes that we do. Being involved in CAFE put our antennas up with regard to the succession issue. Hearing other people’s stories about the process of transitioning company ownership has been really beneficial in helping us make sure we’re on track with our planning.” 
Regina Auto Body, Regina Chapter

The Gallaghers have also begun the succession planning process which so many family businesses leave until the issue reaches a crisis point.  “We have attended a number of CAFE courses on succession and while we don’t have our plan firmly in place yet, CAFE has helped us realize that we actually do need a plan! The fact that succession planning has been discussed by our family at all would not have happened without CAFE. Our family will definitely call on CAFE resources when the time comes for us to finalize our strategy.”
Gallagher’s Garage, Ottawa Chapter

“CAFE has helped myself and my siblings to complete our succession plan. Our business was originally founder-based when we joined and is now well into the second generation. The programming and introduction to experts helped us avoid many pitfalls during the transition. CAFE has been an important partner in assisting our family succession planning which is now involves the third generation.”
ZLC Financial Group – Vancouver Chapter Family Member

“The value we have obtained from being a member of CAFE has been immeasurable. We have benefited from improved family communication and understanding. Joining a PAG has allowed me to learn from others in similar positions.”
Maxwell Floors – Vancouver Chapter Family Member