Bob Moore, the founder of the successful artisanal grain company Bob’s Red Mill, passed away at the age of 94 at his home in Milwaukie, Ore. Moore and his wife Charlee grew the company from a small local operation in 1978 to a global natural-foods powerhouse, offering more than 200 products in over 70 countries. Despite numerous offers from food giants to buy the company, Moore chose to establish an employee stock ownership plan, putting 100 percent of the company in the hands of its more than 700 employees.
Known for his iconic red vest and white beard, Moore’s friendly and approachable image became a staple of the company’s marketing. With its folksy earth-tone packaging and emphasis on natural ingredients, Bob’s Red Mill managed to capture an anti-corporate, back-to-the-land ethos that appealed to ex-hippies and coastal wellness devotees.
Moore’s journey to success began with a keen eye for business and a sense of adventure. After a series of entrepreneurial ventures, he stumbled upon a book about restoring a family flour mill, which sparked his interest in the business. He and his wife eventually turned his obsession into a family mill, which also employed their teenage sons. Business was good, but Moore eventually followed his lifelong dream of learning to read the Bible in its original languages, retiring at the age of 50 to pursue this goal.
In the opinion of many, Moore’s commitment to maintaining the company’s integrity and prioritizing employee ownership speaks volumes about his character and dedication to ethical business practices. His legacy will continue to inspire entrepreneurs for years to come.
In conclusion, Bob Moore’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to ethical business practices have left an indelible mark on the natural-foods industry. His dedication to employee ownership and wholesome, natural products has solidified Bob’s Red Mill as a symbol of integrity and success.