Corovan Transitions to Employee Ownership to Enhance Service Excellence and Social Responsibility

Corovan's Transition to Employee Ownership

Corovan, the largest commercial moving company in the Western United States, has officially transitioned to an employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This significant shift underlines the company's dedication to not only enhancing its services but also addressing pressing social concerns such as income inequality.

Founded in 1948 by Richard T. Schmitz, Corovan has evolved from a household mover to the preeminent commercial mover in the region. Initially focusing on residential moving, the company expanded its scope in 1955 when it became an agent for North American Van Lines. Richard's acquisition of Corovan in 1974 paved the way for remarkable growth across California. In 1993, his sons Bob, Bud, and Tom took the reins, strategically shifting the company’s focus to commercial moving and related services.

The path to employee ownership began in 2022 with the appointment of Kim Kamencik as the new president—marking a historic moment as she became the first non-family member to lead Corovan. This leadership change aligns with the company's mission of not only serving a diverse clientele but also fostering a workplace where employees are recognized and rewarded.

As an employee-owned organization, Corovan is uniquely positioned to attract and retain top-tier talent, creating a robust and engaged workforce. This model not only aligns the interests of management and employees but also enhances service reliability and quality, making employees feel invested in the company’s success.

Kamencik stated, “Becoming an employee-owned company allows us to better serve our clients while addressing essential social issues. Our structure empowers us to reward our workers, attract superior talent, and promote a fair workplace.” This commitment also includes financial support for employees’ retirement savings, ensuring their future stability.

Corovan's prestigious client base showcases its capability to cater to complex needs. Serving notable organizations like Stanford, Google, Meta, Disney, Apple, Genentech, and Oracle, Corovan exemplifies a trusted partner in commercial moving and facility support services. The transition to employee ownership aims to elevate its standards even higher, ensuring ongoing innovation and excellence.

With a vision steeped in community and responsibility, Corovan's first step into employee ownership marks a pivotal chapter in its storied history. As the company continues to build on its legacy, its focus on service excellence and social responsibility remains paramount. Their commitment to creating a sustainable and supportive work environment promises a brighter future for both employees and clients.

As Corovan moves forward, the implications of this transition will undoubtedly resonate throughout the industry, setting a benchmark for others to follow. Their journey reflects a potent blend of dedication, innovation, and social commitment—qualities that are vital in today’s evolving economic landscape.

About Corovan Moving & Storage Co.

Corovan Moving & Storage Co. is an employee-owned moving company based in San Diego, specializing in commercial moving and related services for businesses of all sizes. By harnessing the skills and passion of its employee-owners, Corovan ensures a seamless experience for each client, making it an iconic player in the commercial moving landscape.