Whilst "keeping it in the family" is important for family businesses, owners are still keeping their options open, according to research from wealth manager Investec Wealth & Investment (UK).

A third (33 percent) of large family businesses are considering selling to non-family members as part of their exit plan.

The most popular route is a sale to private investors such as private equity or venture capital, which is preferred by 17 percent, while nine percent are consider...