As the company grew and became more successful, Bob found himself fending off one offer after another–large corporations that wanted to buy Bob’s Red Mill. But even though it would be immensely profitable for himself, Bob didn’t want to go down that road. After reviewing several options, Bob debuted an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) on his 81st birthday and announced that everyone would become an employee-owner, with a goal for Bob’s Red Mill to become 100% employee owned.
Under an ESOP, Bob’s Red Mill employees receive company stock each year. That means each and every one of us has a vested interest in the profitability of the company, and keenly realize that what we do on a day-to-day basis can affect us all. We’re in it together, and we take pride in our work as we strive to bring fresh, wholesome food to the world.
At the end of the day, for all of us, it’s more than just a job. Obviously, it’s the same way for Bob, too.
