Transition management strategies of confiscated mafia-type firms: the role of public administrations and nonprofit organizations

Purpose: This study aims to investigate transition patterns originating from the confiscation of mafia-type firms, examining public administrations and nonprofit organizations' roles. Design/methodology/approach: This study investigates the case of "Calcestruzzi Ericina Libera," a firm located in Sicily and confiscated from the Mafia in 1996. The analysis covers an extended period (approximately 25 years). Findings: The empirical analysis documents the pivotal role of informal networks, comprising public administrations and nonprofit organizations. Confiscation processes are successful if transition management strategies are governed through a network and a collaborative approach is followed after the confiscation to support the firm. Originality/value: Mafia-type firms have been examined academically from different perspectives, but few studies have focused on the steps taken after their confiscation.