I examine the impact of succession on the innovation activities of the family firms when a family member inherits the business. The results show that family succession increases the company's R&D expenditures. However, the R&D efficiency declines after a family member takes over. Moreover, family members with executive experience perform better in innovation activities after succession than those without relevant experience. This phenomenon is more pronounced in the case of second generation succession. Finally, I verify that there is a positive relationship between R&D efficiency and operating performance in family firms. Overall, my research confirms the negative impacts of family succession on firms' innovative activities and finds such influence can be moderated through prior executive experience.