NewAge Industries Now 100% ESOP-owned

September 9th, 2019

NewAge Industries established its ESOP in January 2006, when CEO Ken Baker sold 30% of the company to the employees as a way to ensure the company’s continuation.

After establishing a 30% ESOP in 2006, NewAge Industries is now 100% owned by their Employee Stock Ownership Plan

The ESOP added a new facet to the company’s culture, namely the pride of ownership, while it discouraged a buyout from a competitor or other business. It’s another feature of the company’s retirement benefits that include a pension plan and 401(k) plan. In January of 2013, Baker sold an additional 10% to the employees, bringing employee ownership to a 40% share. ESOP ownership was increased to 49% in 2016, and in 2019 NewAge will become 100% employee owned.

Share this article:

Learn why an ESOP is better for You,
your Business, and your Employees

Upcoming Web Seminar:

Maximize Success with ESOPs in 2025: A Free Webinar for Business Owners, Management, and Employees

As we move into 2025, businesses are navigating a dynamic economic landscape marked by evolving tax policies, rising employee expectations, and the need for sustainable growth strategies. Whether your goal is reducing corporate taxes, creating liquidity for retiring shareholders, or retaining top talent with competitive benefits, Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) offer a proven pathway to success.

This engaging 90-minute webinar will highlight how ESOPs can empower businesses to thrive in 2025 and beyond, providing insights tailored to this year’s unique challenges and opportunities.

What You'll Learn

- What is an ESOP? A comprehensive overview of how ESOPs work and the transformative benefits they offer to companies and employees.
- Solutions for 2025’s Challenges: Strategies to tackle rising labor costs, preserve cash flow, and leverage ESOP tax advantages to build resilience.
- Tax Benefits for Owners & Companies: Explore ways ESOPs minimize taxes while boosting after-tax returns for selling shareholders.
- Attract & Retain Talent: Understand how ESOPs foster employee loyalty, enhance productivity, and drive long-term growth.
- Valuation & Financing Insights: Learn how ESOP valuations are conducted and discover flexible financing structures that support your business goals.

Why 2025 is the Year to Explore ESOPs

With increasing focus on equitable business practices, tax-efficient growth, and employee empowerment, ESOPs have never been more relevant. Research shows that ESOP-owned companies consistently outperform their peers in growth, profitability, and employee satisfaction—key factors in staying competitive in today’s economy.

This webinar is ideal for business owners, CFOs, HR leaders, and advisors seeking actionable strategies to adapt and succeed in 2025’s evolving marketplace.This engaging 90-minute webinar will highlight how ESOPs can empower businesses to thrive in 2025 and beyond, providing insights tailored to this year’s unique challenges and opportunities.