STAYSkift · 2h ago
Black Tomato Founders Sell 75% to Employee Ownership Trust — But Keep Control: Exclusive
Executive Brief
The 30-second read
Black Tomato founders have transitioned 75% of their equity into an Employee Ownership Trust to secure liquidity. The deal structure allows the original founders to maintain operational control while accessing significant tax benefits.
- 01Founders sold 75% of shares to an Employee Ownership Trust while retaining decision-making power
- 02Transaction provides founders with personal liquidity and substantial potential tax exemptions
- 03Strategic move prioritizes long-term independence over a traditional private equity or trade sale
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The founders of Black Tomato have sold the majority of their shares in a deal that gives them liquidity while keeping decision-making power — and qualifies them for a potential tax benefit.