GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — August 7, 2024 — Crystal Flash Inc., a fuel distribution company serving residential, commercial, and agricultural customers across Michigan, has received the distinction of being named 2024 Employee-Owned Company of the Year by The Michigan Chapter of The ESOP Association. The company was also the recipient of the same award in 2020. 

The winning company must demonstrate a commitment to encouraging a sense of employee ownership, providing consistent, effective and open employee communication, and fostering an environment of employee participation. In addition, the company must be financially solvent and have a record of more than two years of sponsorship in The ESOP Association. 

“The Michigan Chapter of The ESOP Association is proud to announce Crystal Flash, Inc. as its 2024 Employee-Owned Company of the Year," said Chapter Executive Rita Tucker. "Education, leadership, and participation are key factors in the company’s success — as is its advocacy for employee ownership. From attending Chapter and National ESOP conferences, to developing its own internal ESOP Certification program and supporting more than 125 local community organizations, Crystal Flash exemplifies what it means to be a successful employee-owned company. The Michigan Chapter of The ESOP Association congratulates Crystal Flash on winning this prestigious award a second time." 

"Winning this award again is a huge honor," said Crystal Flash President and CEO Brad Gandy. "Our employee-owners are actively involved in the company's success, from developing industry-leading customer service practices to giving back to the local communities we serve. This recognition fuels our passion to keep building an even better Crystal Flash for future generations."