In 2021, White Ink Architects made history by becoming the first home-grown Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) in Northern Ireland. This pioneering move marked a significant milestone not only for the Belfast-based architectural firm but also for the wider business community in the region, setting a precedent for others to follow.
White Ink Architects, known for its innovative designs and client-focused approach, transitioned to employee ownership to ensure the long-term success of the business while empowering its team. The transition has strengthened the company’s collaborative culture and reinforced its commitment to delivering outstanding architectural solutions.
Rebecca Aitken, an employee trustee and architect at White Ink, reflected on the impact of the transition:
“Becoming an EOT has been transformative for our team. It has deepened our sense of ownership and investment in the future of the business, driving us to continually raise the bar in what we deliver for our clients.”
The move to employee ownership has also cemented White Ink’s reputation as a forward-thinking and resilient organisation, demonstrating the benefits of this business model to others in Northern Ireland.
As the first home-grown EOT in the region, White Ink Architects serves as a trailblazer, inspiring other local businesses to explore the possibilities of employee ownership.
Learn more about White Ink Architects’ journey and the positive changes brought about by their transition in our detailed case study, available here.