Millionaire Bob Moore transfers company ownership to 700 employees

Bob Moore, the visionary founder of Bob’s Red Mill, etched an extraordinary legacy through his unwavering commitment to employee empowerment and whole grain excellence. In a remarkable move in 2010, Moore exemplified his dedication by transferring ownership of the company to its employees, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the beloved natural foods company.

Moore’s entrepreneurial journey was a testament to his unconventional spirit. Originating from humble roots managing gas stations and stores at JCPenney, he ventured into goat farming with his late wife Charlee. It was in 1968, at the age of 49, that Moore’s life took a transformative turn when he discovered the inspiring tale of “John Goffe’s Mill.” This discovery fueled his determination to establish his own grain mill in Redding, California.

The cornerstone of Bob’s Red Mill’s ethos was laid by Moore’s commitment to preserving the integrity of grains through unconventional processing methods. Under his leadership, the company thrived and expanded its reach to over 70 countries, achieving revenue exceeding $100 million by 2018.

What set Moore apart was his decision to transfer ownership of the company to the employees through an employee stock ownership plan on his 81st birthday. What started with 209 staffers grew into a thriving enterprise with over 700 employees by April 2020, all of whom became stakeholders in the company’s success. This move exemplified Moore’s rejection of conventional business models that prioritize profits over employees, a sentiment he had expressed earlier, stating, “I learned almost 70 years ago how integral hard work and kindness is to success.”

Despite tempting offers to sell, Moore stood firm in his dedication to Bob’s Red Mill, driven by a profound attachment to preserving his legacy. In a 2018 statement to Forbes, he referred to the company as “an absolute dream come true.” His commitment was not just rhetoric; he lived by the principles of generosity and the golden rule, as evidenced by his favorite Bible scripture, Matthew 7:12, advocating to “do unto others what you’d want them to do unto you.”

Retiring in 2018, Moore’s commitment did not waver; he continued to serve as a board member, ensuring the company adhered to its founding principles even after his passing. His visionary leadership and dedication to employee ownership have left an indelible mark on Bob’s Red Mill and the natural foods industry as a whole. Moore’s legacy embodies the essence of integrity, empowerment, and the enduring impact of a dream realized. The tale of Bob Moore and his Red Mill is a testament to the lasting power of unconventional approaches in business, rooted in values that transcend generations.

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