Zildjian Is Still Going Strong!

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In 1623, Avedis Zildjian founded a cymbal-manufacturing company in Istanbul. Nearly 390 years later, the company is being run by the 14th generation of family members, Craigie Zildjian along with her sister Debbie.

This company has survived empires, a move overseas to the United States, and prospered during the economic turmoil of the Great Depression and two World Wars! The company is in control of 65% of the world’s cymbal market, and last year took in over $50m in revenue.

The Zildjian family has a few strict rules to work in the family business; every Zildjian must get a college degree, preferably in business and also must complete an internship while in high school or college to get a feel for the family business. Additionally, family members will not receive a job in the business until they have finished college- they must work elsewhere to get experience outside of the company first. Most interestingly, no family member will ever report to another family member while working within the business!

Despite the company’s previous successes, they believe their most trying days may lie ahead. The new electronic music phenomenon will surely be a test for the company considering their cymbals are made to be used in acoustic type music. The company recently developed a line of electronic cymbals to try and keep up with the ever-changing music industry.

Will their strong family foundation help pull them through these changing times? Only time will tell. What do you think? Let us hear it on the Continuity Family Business Consulting Facebook Wall, linked HERE!