More than ESOP
Worker ownership comes in several forms:
• WORKER CO-OPERATIVE (every worker is a voting member). • EMPLOYEE-OWNED TRUST (UK/IE model — workers own through a trust). • EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP via shares (ESOP-like models).
Evidence is strong: worker-owned firms in Europe show higher productivity, lower turnover, and better resilience during downturns. Mondragón Corporation (Basque Country) is the best-known example, with 70,000+ worker-owners. A growing trend: 'succession by worker buy-out' when owners retire — supported by funds like CFDT (FR), Coop France, Italy's Marcora Law.
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