"I want to introduce you to the new owners of the company," Harpoon Cofounder Dan Kenary announced to a curious crowd at the meeting in the beer hall. "Turn to the person sitting next to you, and shake hands with one of the new owners." The hall erupted in applause, shouts, and tears of joy. On August 1, Harpoon will become an employee-owned company.
"Employee ownership is the embodiment of what Harpoon stands for,” says Dan Kenary. “Our success as an independent craft brewer is attributed to our outstanding employees and the wonderful culture we have at the brewery. The ESOP strengthens our commitment to our employees, our culture, and to making and sharing great beer."
"I think it's also an incredible fit for craft beer," says Kenary. "I want to give a shout out to those who have led the way: Full Sail Brewing, Deschutes, New Belgium, Alaskan Brewing."