| That sounds like a capitalist to me. Or perhaps I should say, a new kind of capitalist. A capitalist the runs a company that shares its profits with its members/employees equally and everyone involved has a say in the direction of business. As Moore points out in the film, "where the company is run like a democracy."
In the film, Moore presents two U.S. employee owned businesses as potential alternative models; a robotics company and Alvarado Street Bakery (ASB). In essence, he says, here are a couple models that work and is equitable.
At ASB, what you put into the business is equal to the shares you own in the co-op. And that is true of every person that works at the bakery. From the production line guys to the CEO. And according to the film, the average line worker at the bakery earns around $65,000 a year.
Let's talk about the bread. It's hippie bread. But, it taste great. It's moist and delicious. I must admit, I have purchased ASB bread from time to time for nearly a decade. It is a bit expensive. But it is every bit the value.
ASB is known for their sprouted wheat breads. Which means they grind "living sprouts" into their dough. Then they add some yeast, sea salt, honey, organic raisins, organic dates, and pure barley malt.
There are no oils added. Nor are there genetically modified organisms or chemical preservatives. As a result, the bread is best consumed right away or stored in the freezer.
In my mind, ASB bread is simply really good bread. I consider it gourmet bread. I don't know if Mr. Tusk agrees with my appraisal or not, but, that is how I have always viewed their bread. It is the good stuff.
I justify buying Alvarado Street Bakery bread because I save money by not eating out. As my hippie/economist girlfriend often says, "you get a better meal at a quarter of the cost." Now a days, everyone is pinching pennies. We can all save money by not going out to eat during lunch breaks. Why not make healthy homemade sandwiches with good bread?
In writing this article I wish to thank my friends at ASB for the ticket to the movie. I also wish to congratulate the company for both an exemplary product and business model.
In reflection, the one thing that most impressed me about the event was watching all the bakery co-workers interacting with each other. Before the film, people meandered outside the theater and around the lobby. They casually embraced one another and introduced each other to friends and family.
I got the impression that this was more than just a group of people that worked together. Rather, this is a vibrant community where members legitimately are interested in and care for the wellbeing of its members. It was definitely not something you see every day. And that is something truly worth supporting.
Alvarado Street Bakery.
By Dean Walker |
