This important milestone solidifies our commitment to our employees, our clients, and our future” said Geoff Bradley, CEO and Co-Founder of M-Group. “An ESOP is a win-win for all involved.”
ESOPs Strengthen Businesses, Employees, and Communities
M-Group’s transition comes at a time when employee ownership is increasingly recognized as a powerful tool for business succession and economic stability. ESOPs have been shown to enhance employee engagement, increase retention, and drive long-term profitability.
“ESOPs work exceptionally well in companies where human capital is a key driver of success,” said Trevor Gilmore, CEO of The Menke Group, who advised on the transaction. “This move creates financial security for employees, strengthens customer relationships, and ensures the company’s long-term success.”
Rather than selling to a third party, M-Group opted for a transition that keeps the company locally owned and operated, benefiting both employees and the regional economy. The ESOP model enables employees to build wealth over time, fostering a culture of shared success and accountability.
About M-Group
Metropolitan Planning Group was founded in 2006 as a city planning consulting firm. M-Group city planners bring together a range of accomplishments and a wealth of real-world planning experience gained while working with over 90 Bay Area cities and counties. Creating a sustainable and equitable future is the goal for all of our planning work.
Our company culture encourages M-Group planners to think big, have fun, and create great award-winning plans for our communities. We foster the creativity and expertise of our 45 planners by providing an environment for initiative and self-determination. Inclusion and diversity are at the core of M-Group’s values.
About The Menke Group
The Menke Group is the nation’s largest and most experienced ESOP advisory firm, having guided over 4,000 companies through the transition to employee ownership since its founding in 1974. With expertise in structuring and financing ESOPs, The Menke Group helps businesses create succession strategies that benefit owners, employees, and communities.
Phil DeDominicis is an ESOP strategist and M&A advisor who has guided 300+ companies through ESOP formations, financing, and transactions over 20+ years at Menke & Associates. He specializes in selling ESOP‑owned businesses to financial or strategic buyers and in helping ESOP companies acquire other businesses.
