Business View Magazine March 2023

119 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 10, ISSUE 3 HOUCHENS INDUSTRI ES There are now over 19,000 ESOP owners benefiting from the ESOP model at Houchens Industries. Shirley stresses that the quality and dedication of its employees is what makes Houchens Industries such a special company. Employees are offered above-market contribution rates as part of the ESOP model, which allows them to retire with dignity while still having the financial means to support their communities in retirement or semi-retirement. According to Shirley, “we really want our employees to maintain a high quality of life. They work hard for us and we want them to be able to live their life on their own terms.” Houchens partners with nonprofit organizations not only in its hometown of Bowling Green, but everywhere it has a presence. The value of partnering with a nonprofit and the impact such organizations have on local communities is emphasized and celebrated, which is why Houchens team members work with multiple