Granite Countertop Warehouse Transitions to Employee Ownership, Empowering Over 100 Workers

Granite Countertop Warehouse (GCW), one of the Southeast’s leading providers of premium countertop solutions, has officially transitioned to 100% employee ownership through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

The move empowers more than 100 employees across five companies and four cities, ensuring that every team member—from installers and designers to customer service staff—has a direct stake in the company’s success.

“When our employees come into a customer’s home, they’re not just workers—they’re owners,” said Miles Crowe, Founder of Granite Countertop Warehouse. “That means our clients receive service rooted in pride, accountability, and care.”

From Humble Beginnings to Employee Ownership

Founded in 2002 as Crowe Custom Countertops by brothers Miles and Mike Crowe, the company started with little more than determination and basic tools. Within the first year, early hires such as Martinez Jairo, his brother Gregorio, and Jose Valencia helped the fledgling company grow.

Jairo, who began as a part-time polisher, rose through the ranks to become shop foreman, production manager, sales manager, general manager, and eventually co-owner. His story embodies the spirit of growth and opportunity that has defined the company for more than two decades.

“Our team has built this business, and now they own it,” said Martinez Jairo, Co-Owner. “That ownership will show in every countertop we install and every customer we serve.”

Why ESOP?

While many offers from private equity firms and large industry consolidators came across Crowe’s desk, he resisted. “None of them felt right. How could I trust new owners to protect our company, our clients, and the team that built it?” Crowe explained.

The ESOP provided a solution that aligned with the company’s values. It allows employees to earn company shares over time—without paying out of pocket—while building long-term financial security. With this transition, GCW joins the ranks of iconic ESOP success stories, such as Publix Supermarkets.

Looking Ahead

Crowe and Jairo will continue leading the company, ensuring stability while pursuing future growth opportunities. GCW plans to expand operations and even acquire other businesses—further extending the benefits of employee ownership.

Special recognition was given to Amber Deanna Cole for her instrumental role in making the ESOP transition possible.

“This is the end of one chapter and the beginning of another,” Crowe added. “Our goal is to become one of the most successful employee-owned companies in the history of ESOPs.”

About Granite Countertop Warehouse

Founded in 2002, Granite Countertop Warehouse has grown into one of the largest fabricators and installers of countertops in the Southeast. With more than 100 employees across five companies and four cities, GCW is known for quality craftsmanship, a wide selection of materials, and exceptional customer service.

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