After successfully selling his company for over £1 billion, a factory executive generously distributed bonuses totaling £327,000 to each of his 540 employees. Graham Walker, the former CEO of Fibrebond, a US-based electrical company, decided to share 15% of the sale’s proceeds with his staff, amounting to an impressive average sum of approximately £327,000 per employee.
The 46-year-old entrepreneur’s Louisiana-based firm was acquired by power-management corporation Eaton earlier this year for a remarkable $1.7 billion (around £1.2 billion). Walker expressed his gratitude towards his dedicated team for their continuous support, emphasizing the transition of Fibrebond’s business focus to manufacturing enclosures for data centers, as highlighted in the Wall Street Journal.
As part of the sales agreement, Walker ensured that 15% of the proceeds would benefit his employees. Consequently, in June, the fortunate workers began receiving substantial bonuses totaling $240 million (roughly £177 million) over a five-year period.
Speaking to the media, Walker stated, “Some spent it immediately, perhaps on the very first day or night. Ultimately, it’s their choice, whether good or bad.”
Reportedly, the employees utilized their windfalls for various purposes, such as settling debts, funding education expenses, securing retirements, purchasing vehicles, and even enjoying vacations like a trip to Mexico with extended family.
One employee, Lesia Key, shared her story of paying off her mortgage and launching a clothing boutique with her bonus. She expressed her gratitude, saying, “Previously, we were living paycheck to paycheck. Now, I can live; I’m thankful.”
In a similar act of generosity, a UK-based CEO recently spent £100,000 on Christmas gifts for employees, including the giveaway of a luxurious Range Rover.
Benjy Leslie, the CEO of Connect Management, organized a special “Santa Leslie incentive” at his company, where employees had the opportunity to select gifts as part of the festive celebration.
Among the gifts offered were items like an iPhone, Ray-Ban Meta sunglasses, Olivia Dean concert tickets, AirPods, a scooter, and an Osmo camera. The highlight was Chloe winning a white Range Rover Evoque, expressing her deep appreciation for the company.
The company’s TikTok page captured the exciting moment, with Chloe’s reaction described as “absolutely insane.” She expressed her gratitude, stating, “Forever grateful to work for the most amazing company in the WORLD! The streets of London better watch out.”
The gesture garnered attention on social media, with viewers expressing interest in working for such a generous employer, highlighting the positive impact of thoughtful gestures during the holiday season.