Retiring businessman gives the entire company to employees instead of selling it for money

We live in a world where the wealthy often grow richer while those with less struggle to make ends meet. Amid this disparity, individuals like Bob Moore stand out as beacons of generosity and fairness. Moore, the founder of Bob's Red Mill, a whole-grain food manufacturer based in Milwaukie, Oregon, made a decision that secured the future of his multi-million-dollar company in the most compassionate way. Instead of selling his company to corporate giants during his later years, Moore chose to give it to the people who helped build it—his employees.

According to the company’s website, Moore started the business with his wife Charlee at the age of 49. Throughout its rise to global success, Moore never forgot that it was the dedication of his employees that made it all possible. As reported by Forbes, when Moore stepped down as CEO in 2018, many thought he was making a mistake by not selling the company to a corporate buyer. But Moore had a clear vision. Working alongside financial advisors, he implemented an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) to transfer ownership to his team. By his 81st birthday, he had officially handed over more than a third of the company to his employees.

The official Bob's Red Mill page on YouTube featured an interview with Moore who disclosed how he wishes to be remembered by people around him. "I would be honored to be remembered as someone who inspires others to make their lives better by eating nutritious whole-grain foods, by working hard to achieve their dreams and by helping people in their communities. Also, not to brag but I make a pretty good bowl of oatmeal," Moore joked. Moore passed away a few days before his 95th birthday and Bob's Red Mill became a fully employee-owned business over 10 years.

In February 2024, an Instagram post on the company's official handle @bobsredmill announced his sad demise. "He was 94 years old and full of the same love for wholesome foods as the day he founded Bob’s Red Mill. Bob’s passion, ingenuity and respect for others will forever inspire the employee-owners of Bob’s Red Mill. We will carry on his legacy by bringing wholesome foods to people around the world. We will truly miss his energy and larger-than-life personality," the caption read alongside a bunch of pictures featuring Moore. 

The comment section also acknowledged his contribution to society and celebrated his legacy. @lambo_650er commented, "His product has made such a significant impact on the world. Whenever I see Bob’s Red Mill products, I immediately associate them with quality." @lemonsandzest mentioned, "Heartbreaking to hear. He left a legacy for sure and so many behind that have been impacted by him! Prayers to all who love him." @hellolisalin added, "I’m so sorry to hear this news. I remember meeting Bob at the Fancy Food Show several years ago and got a photo taken with him. I showed my mom and she was impressed that I met a food celebrity! Although my mom’s English is limited, she always recognized Bob’s Red Mill products in stores because she recognized Bob’s face on the packaging and would gravitate toward them."