CSG Partners at Business Mastery

The Power of Employee Ownership

When companies sell equity to an ESOP, owners gain fair market liquidity without sacrificing their businesses' independence. Selling shareholders can receive significant cash up-front and defer capital gains taxes on their sale proceeds.

For some owners, an ESOP sale is a tax-advantaged opportunity to take "chips off the table" and gain a competitive advantage. For others, an employee ownership strategy can drive an exit or succession plan that benefits all stakeholders.

If liquidity, stability, and gratitude are among your business goals, an ESOP may be your best transaction option. See what makes employee ownership such a valuable strategy.

Unlock Net Worth

Creates a tax-advantaged, liquidity event and diversification opportunity for selling shareholders.

BillBoxedAsset 4

Free Cash Flow

Yields lucrative tax-breaks for the business; 100% employee-owned companies can operate income tax-free.

Reward Employees

Full-time staff gain stock over time, which can provide stability and a chance to share in corporate growth.

Sustain Legacies

Selling shareholders can maintain a meaningful role with their company and potential upside.

Frank Fiume - Founder, i9 Sports

Frank Fiume pursued his passion for sports and built the nation's largest provider of recreational programming. But after more than a decade of work, Fiume was ready to consider a liquidity event.

He wanted to take "chips off the table," but had serious reservations about selling i9 Sports to a third-party. A partial ESOP sale proved to be the right option for Fiume and his entire team.

"In 2019, we became the first Ashley HomeStore licensee in the world to become an employee-owned company. The ESOP has benefited every one of our employees and allowed us to take money off the table. I call that a win-win for everyone!"

Bill Fonti CEO

"Transitioning ANX to an ESOP has been a transformative blessing. This shift has unlocked unimaginable growth and fulfillment, not just for the business, but for each person who now has a vested stake in our shared success. It's a legacy, and I'm honored to be a part of it."

Thomas Rocas CEO

Employment Alliance Holdings

"Our employee owners are more engaged, motivated, and aligned with our long-term goals because they now have a tangible stake in the success of the business. Everyone is committed to driving the company forward. It's not just about their jobs anymore; it's about their future."

Steve Cox CEO

"Our staff was poached constantly by our competitors. Transitioning to an ESOP has helped us retain great talent. We intend for each employee owner to retire as a millionaire. When we illustrate that potential to team members, it almost becomes an emotional experience. What a win for everyone!"

Jeff Bohannan President

"After building a strong team and culture, I knew it was time to determine an ownership plan for the future of the company. My priorities were to build a legacy, maintain our culture, and provide opportunities for our employees. The ESOP route was the only way to go."

Ryan Schmitt CEO

"We had received multiple acquisition offers over the years, but we never felt that a buyer would take care of our staff. An ESOP was a perfect fit. It enabled my co-founder and me to take chips off the table, reward our employees, and re-energize our business."

Glen Greenawalt COO