In 2006, through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Johnny's Selected Seeds was sold to its employees. In an ESOP, employees receive shares of the company — not any outside investor. Within 6 years, by 2012, employees owned 100% of the company.
These shares result in a generous retirement benefit for our employees… but what does it mean for you?
You get our best, each and every day. Service, seeds, plants, tools, information. You name it, and we give it our all. At the end of the day, we answer to ourselves and to you. Our individual talents, motivations, and dedication all come together to give you what you need to succeed as a grower. In an industry where company mergers are commonplace, Johnny's Selected Seeds is held firmly in the hands of our employee-owners.
We want to keep our traditions and history strong, to continue to grow alongside you.
Being answerable to our customers and ourselves rather than outside shareholders allows us to make decisions that have a favorable impact on our communities. Whether it be contributing labor, seeds, and tools, leaving sunflowers in the fields for the birds, or donating surplus fresh produce. We are all working together to make a difference.