This session focused on the often misunderstood world of ESOP transactions, and covered updates on the current ESOP market, examples of where ESOP structures can be a compelling liquidity solution for family and closely held business, and a discussion of a variety of success stories from the perspectives of investors, advisors and company owner's experiences in the ESOP world.
The investor discussion was led by Aaron Richmond of Endeavour Capital, which has invested in two successful ESOPs, including WinCo Foods and Bi-Mart.
The advisor discussion was led by PJ Carstens of K&L Gates, as PJ has focused on ESOPs for over 30 years with many successful experiences alongside family and private business owners in the Pacific NW.
The company discussion was led by Darran Littlefield, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Point B Solutions which is a company that completed an ESOP transaction and continues to operate on a very successful basis as an employee owned company with the founders still active.