List of Employee-Owned Companies (UK)

When the government introduced Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) in 2014, the legislation was intended to encourage more businesses to adopt the “John Lewis” ownership model. 

The John Lewis model gives each employee part-ownership of the company, along with a share of its profits, and a say in how the company is run. Today EOTs have become a popular succession plan for business owners and a favoured business model among employees. 

Employee-owned companies are considered more competitive and sustainable, with high standards of employment and corporate responsibility. It is also widely understood to be good for the employees themselves. So, in addition to John Lewis, which other companies in the UK are employee-owned?

Top 50 Employee-owned companies in the UK

This table was produced by RM2 Partnership Limited (RM2) in partnership with the Employee Ownership Association, which which Shorts is proud to be a member. Above are the top 50 employee-owned companies in the UK as of 2026.

Learn more about Employee Ownership Trusts

Employee Ownership Trusts are, when an appropriate route, the most tax-efficient way for exiting shareholders to sell their business, but they also enable businesses to grow and thrive long after the previous owner’s departure.

You can find out more about Employee Ownership Trusts by downloading our free EOT guide.