James Alexander Corporation Becomes 100% Employee-Owned Company
BLAIRSTOWN, NJ – James Alexander Corporation (JAC), a leading manufacturer of innovative dispensing and packaging solutions, today announced that the company has transitioned to 100% employee ownership through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), effective immediately.
The transaction represents a natural evolution of a commitment to employees that began in 2011, when JAC founder and Chairwoman Francesca Fazzolari established the company’s ESOP, giving employees a 20% ownership stake. Fazzolari’s motivation was simple: to recognize the employees whose dedication, talent and hard work had contributed to the company’s success and give them a meaningful stake in its future.
“Fifty years ago, James Alexander was founded with a vision for creating something special,” said Fazzolari. “As we celebrate 50 years, I can think of no better way to begin the company’s next chapter than by putting its future entirely in the hands of the people who have helped build it.”
“Since we established the ESOP in 2011, I have watched our employees embrace the responsibility and opportunity that comes with ownership. Today, they are not simply part owners - they are the owners. I couldn’t be more proud of them or more confident in the future of James Alexander.”
From 20% ESOP to 100%
When JAC became an ESOP company in 2011, Fazzolari described the decision as a way to provide employees with something greater than a traditional bonus and to create an additional retirement benefit. As the company grows, employees benefit from the value they help create.
Many JAC employees have dedicated decades to the company, with some employees having been part of the organization for more than 20 years. The transition to 100% employee ownership recognizes that history while giving employees an even greater stake in the company’s continued success.
At the original ESOP announcement in 2011, Fazzolari quoted civil rights leader Alice Paul: “Each of us puts in one little stone, and then you get a great mosaic in the end.”
Fifteen years later, that mosaic is now entirely employee owned.
“I feel so blessed to have grown and prospered in a company where I’ve been able to follow my own vision, trust my instincts, and do it my way. Along that journey, I always tried to treat people the way I think they should be treated,” Fazzolari said. “I’m proud of the committed professionals that have become far more than colleagues. This team is truly a family, and a multi-talented one at that.”
Looking Ahead to the Next 50 Years
The 100% employee-ownership transaction comes at a pivotal moment in James Alexander Corporation’s history, providing continuity while strengthening the company’s long-term foundation. As employee-owners, JAC employees will share directly in the value they create and have an even greater stake in the company’s performance, growth and future.
“Reaching 50 years is an extraordinary achievement,” said Fazzolari. “But this isn’t about looking back. It’s about looking forward. The next 50 years belong to our employees, and I am excited to see what they will accomplish.”