[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”22px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”CTA” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_divider color=”#397389″ divider_weight=”2px” _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_cta title=”Take the 2026 Family-Owned Business Survey” button_url=”https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/2026-annual-family-business-survey\/?utm_campaign=2026AFOBS&utm_medium=CTA&utm_source=FEUSActa&utm_content=FEUSActa&utm_id=2026AFOBS” button_text=”Contribute your perspective to the 2026 Family-owned Business Survey and help influence policy and support. Start now.” disabled_on=”off|off|off” admin_label=”Call To Action Top” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”22px” background_color=”#397389″ custom_button=”on” button_bg_color=”#ff0019″ custom_margin=”-17px|||||” custom_padding=”16px||19px|||” global_module=”9695″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_cta][et_pb_divider color=”#397389″ divider_weight=”2px” _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ admin_label=”Author Byline” _builder_version=”4.24.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” link_option_url=”https:\/\/www.brownandstreza.com\/davidkeligian” link_option_url_new_window=”on” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Team-members-Pat-S.jpg” title_text=”Patricia M. Soldano” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Author” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ text_font=”||||||||” text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
By Patricia M. Soldano<\/a> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_video src=”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=UPTs14zx0L4″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_video][et_pb_text admin_label=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ text_font=”||||||||” text_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Affordability continues to be top of mind among our lawmakers in Washington, D.C., and among family-owned business leaders.<\/p>\n Family-owned businesses tend to be more resilient and less dependent on short term gains than large corporation when it comes to navigating pricing, profit margins, customers, and community.<\/p>\n Yet, in an era of rising costs, inflation pressures, and heightened competition, many family-owned businesses face a common challenge: how to keep products affordable while sustaining profitability and investing in the future?<\/p>\n It\u2019s a delicate balancing act requiring creativity, discipline, and a commitment to long-term value over short-term gains. If done well, it\u2019s a competitive advantage.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong>But economic uncertainty remains a pressing concern. Navigating inflation, new tariffs, changing consumer buying patterns, and unpredictable interest rates keep family business leaders alert to the slightest changes.<\/p>\n It\u2019s still too early to have any solid research going into 2026 on how family-owned businesses are responding to the affordability issue.<\/p>\n Right now, we\u2019re conducting our own research on key issues affecting family businesses in our Family Enterprise USA 2026 Annual Family-Owned Business Survey. We\u2019ll have the full results out in early April.<\/p>\n Also, on March 17, we\u2019re having the year\u2019s first meeting with Members of the Congressional Family Business Caucus hosted by FEUSA with the theme of \u201cProfits and Pricing: Affordability Strategies for Family-Owned Businesses.\u201d<\/p>\n At this Caucus meeting, family business leaders will present their many approaches to handling the affordability issue, including maintaining profits and investing in the future.<\/p>\n But CEO\u2019s everywhere are being forced to rethink their businesses.<\/p>\n In last year\u2019s EY-Parthenon CEO Outlook survey of 1,200 CEO it was found 7 in 10 \u201cagreed they need to rethink their approach to transformation\u201d due to geopolitical volatility, an uncertain economic environment, and the increased speed and scale of technology disruption. Yet, only about 66% said they have yet to make changes.<\/p>\n In PwC Global\u2019s latest Family Business Survey, covering 1,325 family businesses, it found family-owned businesses prioritized stability and legacy preservation over aggressive growth<\/strong>. <\/strong><\/p>\n This study said cost pressures and uncertain markets influenced operational choices, including pricing, investment, and profit decisions heading into 2026.<\/p>\n Other studies, like the 2025 Deloitte Private\u2019s Global Family Business Insights Series, found family enterprises are adapting to affordability issues by scaling innovation and investing in technology, including AI. <\/em><\/p>\n A Bank of America Business Owner Report<\/em> from late 2025 found inflation remains the top concern among small- and medium-sized business owners<\/strong>,<\/strong> with around 70% seeing it as their biggest challenge and many raising prices to offset increased costs due to inflation.<\/p>\n When I speak with family-owned business leaders about affordability there\u2019s tension between raising prices to cover higher costs, while at the same time trying to stay competitive. Most see modest price increases for 2026 as inevitable.<\/p>\n But rather than chasing the lowest price point, many family firms are focused on sustainable value, that is, fair pricing, and a future built on loyal customers and sound financial health.<\/p>\n One example is \u201cvalue-based pricing,\u201d which emphasizes value over cost<\/em>.<\/p>\n The trick here is to clearly communicate why products are worth the price. The higher price may be due to craftsmanship, sustainability, local sourcing, or superior customer service.<\/p>\n There is also the affordability strategy of \u201cTiered Product Lines.\u201d<\/p>\n This is where multiple product tiers allow customers to choose what fits their budget. This can widen the customer base without diluting brand identity or core pricing strategies.<\/p>\n Some family businesses employ dynamic pricing, where prices are adjusted based on demand, seasonality, or inventory levels.<\/p>\n No matter what pricing, or margin, strategies are used it\u2019s important to have open discussions about costs and profitability with staff. This builds a shared sense of responsibility and helps employees understand the financial constraints the family business is under. And, they are more likely to support cost-saving measures, price increases, and contribute ideas for improvement.<\/p>\n Advocacy with Family Enterprise USA Action<\/strong><\/p>\n Since 1995, our sister organization, Policy and Taxation Group (PATG), has advocated on Capitol Hill for family offices, successful families, and family-owned businesses. It\u2019s our vehicle for \u201ctaking action\u201d directly with lawmakers, particularly on key tax and economic issues.<\/p>\n To reflect the importance of these actions on \u201cThe Hill,\u201d PATG is being renamed in 2026 to Family Enterprise USA Action.<\/p>\n Family Enterprise USA Action will continue PATG\u2019s focus on the tax and economic issues, including working to reduce and eliminate estate, gift, and generation skipping transfer taxes. At the same time, it will continue to block increased income and capital gains taxes, the creation of a wealth tax, and other tax policies that punish hard work and success.<\/p>\n In addition, Family Enterprise USA Action (FEUSA Action) will continue PATG\u2019s 501(c)(4) organization status.<\/p>\n By aligning more closely with the educational and promotion work we\u2019re doing with lawmakers through Family Enterprise USA, FEUSA Action makes it clear both organizations are fully aligned, advocating, and acting for successful families, family offices, and family-owned businesses in 2026, and beyond.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider divider_style=”dotted” disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text disabled_on=”off|off|off” admin_label=”Become a member text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” link_option_url=”https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/donate-2\/” global_module=”5822″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n As we prepare for what promises to be a pivotal year for America, we’re asking you to consider becoming a member.<\/p>\n The need for fact-based reporting of issues important to family owned businesses<\/a> and protecting a lifetime of savings<\/a> has never been greater. Now more than ever, successful families<\/a> and family owned businesses<\/a> are under fire. That’s why Family Enterprise USA<\/a> is passionately working to increase the awareness of issues important to family owned businesses<\/a> built on hard work, while continuing to strengthen our presence on Capitol Hill. The issues we fight for or against with Congress in Washington DC include high income tax rates<\/a>, possible elimination of valuation discounts, increase in capital gains tax<\/a>, enactment of a wealth tax<\/a>, and the continued burden of the gift tax<\/a>, estate tax<\/a> and generation skipping tax<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/donate\/” button_text=”Become a Family Enterprise USA Member” button_alignment=”center” disabled_on=”off|off|off” admin_label=”Become FEUSA member button” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_button=”on” global_module=”6503″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_divider divider_style=”dotted” disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_video_slider disabled_on=”on|on|on” admin_label=”Video Slider Family Business Stories 1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_module=”5963″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_video_slider_item src=”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=3k9d1tFz5AU&t=22s” _builder_version=”4.19.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” show_image_overlay=”off”][\/et_pb_video_slider_item][et_pb_video_slider_item src=”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=kG0lDKbmJxg” _builder_version=”4.19.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” show_image_overlay=”off”][\/et_pb_video_slider_item][et_pb_video_slider_item src=”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=HFK8SG1VSco” _builder_version=”4.19.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” show_image_overlay=”off”][\/et_pb_video_slider_item][et_pb_video_slider_item src=”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=Z15BqbFOYck” _builder_version=”4.19.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” show_image_overlay=”off”][\/et_pb_video_slider_item][et_pb_video_slider_item src=”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=bsn5xYrxhJg” _builder_version=”4.19.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” show_image_overlay=”off”][\/et_pb_video_slider_item][et_pb_video_slider_item src=”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=PL3K3rK7ioA&t=5s” _builder_version=”4.19.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” show_image_overlay=”off”][\/et_pb_video_slider_item][et_pb_video_slider_item src=”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=CpXRbRBhPKc” _builder_version=”4.19.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” show_image_overlay=”off”][\/et_pb_video_slider_item][\/et_pb_video_slider][et_pb_text disabled_on=”off|off|off” admin_label=”FEUSA Statement” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” link_option_url=”https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/donate-2\/” global_module=”5910″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Family Enterprise USA<\/a> promotes generationally<\/a> owned family business<\/a> creation, growth, viability, and sustainability by advocating for family businesses<\/a> and their lifetime of savings with Congress<\/a> in Washington DC.\u00a0 Since 2007, Family Enterprise USA<\/a> has represented and celebrated\u00a0all sizes, professions and industries of family-owned enterprises and multi-generational<\/a> employers. It is a bi-partisan 501.c3 organization.\u00a0Family foundations can donate.<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on=”off|off|off” admin_label=”Hash tags & Tags” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_module=”6498″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n #incometax #CapitalGainsTax #R&DExpensing #DontPunishSuccess #GrantorTrusts #StepUpinBasis #likeKindExchanges #AcceleratedDepreciation #EstateTax #Deathtax #wealthtax #taxLegislation #CongressionalCaucus #incometaxrates #repealestatetax #AdvocatingForFamilyBusinesses #FamilyOwnedBusiness #WomenOwnedBusiness @FamilyEnterpriseUSA #FamilyEnterpriseUSA #FEUSA<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" By Patricia M. Soldano President Family Enterprise USAAffordability Issue Takes Center Stage in 2026 with Pricing, Profit Strategies Affecting Family-Owned Businesses \u00a0 Policy and Taxation Group Renamed Family Enterprise USA Action, with Focus on Action, Engagement with Capitol Hill Lawmakers \u00a0 \u00a0Affordability continues to be top of mind among our lawmakers in Washington, D.C., and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":16267,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[48,3,92,94],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-16265","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-family-businesses","category-feusa","category-multi-generational-business","category-pat-soldano"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16265","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=16265"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16265\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16291,"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16265\/revisions\/16291"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/16267"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=16265"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=16265"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/familyenterpriseusa.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=16265"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
\n<\/strong>President<\/em>
\nFamily Enterprise USA<\/p>\nAffordability Issue Takes Center Stage in 2026 with Pricing, Profit Strategies Affecting Family-Owned Businesses<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Policy and Taxation Group Renamed Family Enterprise USA Action, with Focus on Action, Engagement with Capitol Hill Lawmakers<\/strong><\/em><\/h3>\n
We hope you’ve enjoyed this article. While you’re here, we have a small favor to ask…<\/em><\/h4>\n
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