Kansas City Grocery Stores Embrace Employee Ownership on 100th Anniversary

Kansas City Grocery Stores Transition to Employee Ownership

Kansas City, Kan. has recently witnessed a significant and heartwarming shift in the grocery industry landscape. On Tuesday, Balls Food Stores (BFS), the parent company of over two dozen well-known grocery outlets in the area, proudly announced that it is handing over ownership to its employees. This delightful news coincides with the company’s **100th anniversary**, marking a century of service and community involvement.

A Legacy of Family and Values

Balls Food Stores has been a staple in the Kansas City area for generations. With 25 grocery locations, which include all Hen House Markets, Sun Fresh Markets, Payless Discount Foods, and several Price Choppers, the company has established itself as a trusted provider of groceries. Founded back in 1923 by Sidney and Molly Ball, the company has passed through three generations, maintaining its family-oriented philosophy throughout the years. Ownership transitioned from Sidney and Molly to their son, Fred, in 1975, and then to their grandson, David, in 2000.

A Move Towards Employee Ownership

In a bold and positive move, BFS has transitioned to an **Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)**. This new opportunity allows **qualifying employees** to receive shares of the company stock without any out-of-pocket costs. It’s a remarkable step that not only benefits the employees but also aligns with the company’s core values of teamwork and community care. With around **2,600 employees** now getting the chance to have a stake in the business, the hope is that this will further strengthen the bond between the employees and the customers they serve.

Inspired by a Family Philosophy

David Ball expressed that this decision was deeply inspired by his family’s philosophy, which emphasizes treating employees well to enhance customer service and business growth. He mentioned, “If you take care of your teammates, they’ll take care of the customer, and the customer will take care of the business.” This philosophy is not just a catchy saying for the Balls; it’s how they have operated since their inception. David even recalls his grandfather stating, “We’re in the people business. We just happen to sell groceries.” This focus on people over profits is rare in corporate structures but seems to be the perfect fit for BFS.

Looking Ahead

The implementation of the ESOP is not just a financial move; it’s a strategic decision aimed at fostering a more inclusive company culture. David believes that an ESOP is an ideal growth strategy for BFS, as it harmonizes their emphasis on **people, culture, operations, and growth**. The idea is that when employees are invested in the company’s success, they are likely to showcase more commitment and dedication in their roles.

The Future of BFS

As BFS embarks on this new journey of employee ownership, there is a ripple of excitement across the local communities. Changes like this often lead to increased morale and productivity within the workforce. Employees now not only work for a paycheck but also contribute to a legacy they literally own a piece of. Their stakes in the company may even encourage innovative ideas and improvements at the stores.

As Kansas City continues to thrive with local businesses paving the way for community-driven growth, Balls Food Stores stands as a shining example of how prioritizing people can lead to a successful and sustainable future. Cheers to this new chapter in Kansas City grocery history! With employees now at the helm, one can only imagine the great things that lie ahead!