FST Logistics

9 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 10, ISSUE 8 FST LOGIST ICS “As we get them through orientation, we start to make that connection with 401(K) and ESOP,” said Kuhlman, adding that such thinking about the future facilitates financial wellness. “When people stress about their money, it’s hard for them to be successful at work.” Hartman shared Kuhlman’s enthusiasm. “I think the ESOP model is a wonderful model,” he said. “I would encourage any business owners who are looking to exit their businesses and who truly care about the longevity of their brands and allowing a smooth transition to maintain the culture that they have invested in as an owner and founder.” With regard to using an ESOP, as Hartman said, business owners need to be able to step back and realize that they are now running businesses owned by their employees. The culture of a private business is very different from that of an ESOP, as he explained. “You need to be able to share the wealth at a little higher level than you traditionally would have as a private business owner,” he said, “because the risk is no longer on you, so you can’t continue to operate the way you always have.” Overcoming challenges As with any company, as Hartman pointed out, there are obstacles to be overcome. “When I came here three and a half years ago, the company had gone through some really difficult times,” he acknowledged. “And 2019