Martin Landscaping Transitions to 100% Employee Ownership via ESOP Transaction
Charlotte-based Martin Landscaping has completed a transition to 100% employee ownership through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) transaction with Hansen Family Office. After 45 years of family leadership, owners Lisa Markus and David Martin have moved into new roles while preserving the company's legacy as a specialized seeding and erosion control subcontractor. The sale followed a competitive process managed by Viking Mergers & Acquisitions, which evaluated over 200 prospective buyers. Hansen Family Office was selected due to its ability to provide transaction certainty and operational support through an ESOP model. This structure allows employees to hold equity in the company while benefiting from the professional management resources provided by the family office.