Wales Employee Ownership Conference Launches as EO Sector Surges

Geldards, Azets, RBC Brewin Dolphin, and Thomas Carroll are hosting the inaugural Wales Employee Ownership (EO) Conference, taking place at Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday, 1st May 2025. The event is designed for companies considering employee ownership and those that have already made the transition, offering a day of engaging discussions, practical advice, and invaluable networking opportunities.

The Rise of Employee Ownership in the UK

The UK’s employee-owned sector has experienced remarkable growth since the introduction of Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) in 2014, part of the Finance Act and inspired by the success of pioneers like the John Lewis Partnership. At that time, employee ownership was a niche model, but the landscape has transformed dramatically over the past decade.

Key facts and statistics:

• Rapid Growth: The number of EOTs has surged from just 19 in 2018 to over 1,400 by 2024—a staggering increase of 2,750% in five years.

• Sector Expansion: The total number of employee-owned businesses in the UK has more than tripled in the last decade, now exceeding 1,400 firms, with projections suggesting the sector could reach over 5,000 by 2030.

• Economic Impact: Despite representing only 0.1% of UK businesses, employee-owned firms contribute between £32 billion and £41 billion to the economy annually, accounting for up to 2.1% of overall economic activity

• Resilience and Productivity: Employee-owned businesses are 8-12% more productive and 40% more resilient during economic downturns compared to traditional models.

• Employee Benefits: These businesses provide higher dividends and bonuses, greater job satisfaction (with 70% of employees reporting higher satisfaction), and are five times less likely to lay off staff.

Why the Surge in Employee Ownership?

Several factors have driven this rapid adoption:

• Succession Planning: EOTs offer a compelling alternative for business owners seeking to exit while preserving company culture and rewarding loyal employees.

• Tax Incentives: The model provides attractive tax reliefs for selling shareholders and income tax-free bonuses for employees, making it a tax-efficient succession route.

• Employee Engagement: Employee ownership fosters a sense of shared purpose, boosting motivation, innovation, and retention—critical in today’s competitive talent market.

• Societal Impact: Employee-owned businesses are more likely to invest in communities, offer flexible work, and pursue environmental sustainability strategies.

The Wales EO Conference: What to Expect

The Wales Employee Ownership Conference will feature:

• Informative Sessions: Practical workshops and panel discussions tailored to both prospective and established EO businesses.

• Industry Experts: Guest speakers and professional advisors from Geldards, Azets, and RBC Brewin Dolphin.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, industry leaders, and EO advocates.

• Exhibitor Opportunities: Businesses interested in exhibiting can contact Ellie Hughes for more information.

Why Now Is the Time for Employee Ownership

As the UK faces ongoing economic challenges and a wave of business owners seeking succession solutions, employee ownership is emerging as a future-proof model. It not only secures the legacy of founders but also empowers employees, strengthens communities, and builds more resilient, productive businesses. High-profile transitions—such as Richer Sounds, Aardman Animations, and Riverford Organic Farmers—have brought EO into the mainstream, inspiring a new generation of companies to consider this path.

The Wales EO Conference represents a pivotal moment for the region’s business community to explore the benefits and practicalities of employee ownership. Whether you’re at the start of your EO journey or looking to deepen your understanding, this event is not to be missed.

Visit the website. To view the full conference programme, please click here.