Sandpoint-based food maker Litehouse, Inc. became fully owned by its employees last month.

With 650 employees nationwide, Litehouse produces salad dressings, veggie dips, sauces, instantly fresh herbs, blue cheese, caramel dips, fruit dips, glazes and fresh-pressed apple cider at facilities in Idaho, Michigan and Utah.

Litehouse has been family owned for more than 50 years. As of Dec. 22, 100 percent of company stock had been sold to employees through a stock ownership plan that began in 2006.

“We are incredibly proud of our company and want our legacy to be shared with the talented and dedicated employees who have contributed to its growth,” said Doug Hawkins, chairman of the board of directors. “The move to 100 percent employee ownership allows every employee to be an owner and ensures the future success of Litehouse for generations to come.”

The Litehouse brand was founded by brothers Doug and Edward Hawkins, who merged with Wendell Christoff and his family dressing company, Chadalee Farms, of Lowell, Michigan, in 1997.

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