IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Chobani is Giving Employees Shares in the Greek Yogurt Company

Chobani says it is giving its employees an ownership stake in the privately held company.
Image:
FILE - In this Jan. 13, 2012 photo, Chobani Greek Yogurt is seen at the Chobani plant in South Edmeston, N.Y. The recent yogurt boom of upstate New York has meant more jobs and more economic activity. But it has not led to a bigger dairy herd in the state, even as mega-producer Chobani reaches beyond New York for some of its milk. (AP Photo/Mike Groll, File)Mike Groll / ASSOCIATED PRESS

Chobani says it is giving its employees an ownership stake in the privately held company.

The Greek yogurt maker says the shares being distributed would amount to 10 percent of the company's future value in the event of a sale or initial public offering. It says each of its approximately 2,000 full-time employees will receive shares based on their role and time spent with the company.

Chobani says CEO and founder Hamdi Ulukaya is meeting with employees this week to tell about the plan in person.

Read More: In Yogurt Wars, Chobani Ordered to Halt Ads Bashing Rivals' Products

"This isn't a gift. It's a mutual promise to work together with a shared purpose and responsibility," Ulukaya wrote in a letter to employees.

Chobani has helped lead the surging popularity in Greek yogurt, but has faced more competition in recent years.