Shorr Packaging has been named the 2026 ESOP Company of the Year by the Illinois Chapter of The ESOP Association. The ESOP Association is the national trade association for companies with employee stock ownership plans (ESOP) and the leading voice in the U.S. for employee ownership.
As a two-time award winner, this accolade reflects our commitment to shared growth, the inclusive culture we’re proud to build together, and the strength of our employee-owned model.
What is the ESOP Company of the Year Award?
This award honors an ESOP company that shows a strong dedication to employee ownership by actively participating in The ESOP Association and its programs. It also emphasizes transparent communication with employees and aligns with The ESOP Association’s vision of promoting employee engagement, wealth building, and respect for individual dignity and worth.
“This recognition belongs to our employee‑owners. Being 100% employee‑owned is not just our structure. It’s how we think, act, and make decisions every day. Our OWN IT mindset influences how we serve our customers, support each other, and focus on our long-term success.” – Rob Onorato, Chief Executive Officer, Shorr Packaging Corp.
Our values are the foundation of what we do and how we do it. They guide our interactions, shape our business, and define who we are as employee-owners . This award reflects the pride, accountability, and commitment our employee‑owners bring to work each day. It also honors the legacy of employee ownership at Shorr and our continued investment in our people and shared success. What sets Shorr apart is more than just working for a company; it’s being part of a culture built on purpose, integrity, and accountability that carries through everything we do.
Shorr will compete against a competitive field of ESOP Companies of the Year from The ESOP Association’s 18 other state and regional Chapters for the title “National ESOP Company of the Year.” The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at The ESOP Association’s Annual Conference in November 2026.
