Business & Management Studies

Blurring the boundaries between employment and entrepreneurship: Role of employee ownership and profit-sharing

Blurring the boundaries between employment and entrepreneurship: Role of employee ownership and profit-sharing

Employee ownership and profit‑sharing transform workplaces by aligning incentives, boosting engagement, and driving performance despite implementation challenges.

Authors

Deepak Kumar Sahoo, Biju Patnaik University of Technology, Rourkela, India

Saroj Kanta Biswal, Siksha O Anusandhan, India

Anish Kumar, O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat, Haryana, India

Thi Trang Dang, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Viet Nam

Ajay Chandel, Lovely Professional University, India

Summary

This chapter explores how employee ownership and profit-sharing arrangements blur the traditional boundaries between employment and entrepreneurship. It examines the historical evolution and various models of employee ownership, including stock options, ESOPs, and profit-sharing plans. By analyzing the entrepreneurial mindset fostered through these models, the chapter highlights their impact on organizational culture, employee engagement, and business performance. The discussion also covers the benefits, challenges, and limitations of implementing such models, supported by case studies from notable companies like John Lewis Partnership and Mondragon Corporation. Looking ahead, the chapter identifies key trends and implications for the future, including technological advancements, inclusivity, and regulatory developments. The findings underscore the potential of these models to transform work environments, enhance employee motivation, and drive organizational success.

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