During 1999 our company was set up as an ESOP （employee stock ownership plan） to enable all of our employees participation in the growth, profitability and continuation of the company. 　　 　　We were established in 1842 in Rochester New York by the Ross family. Until 1999 we had been 100% owned and operated by the Ross family. At that time Richard Ross the President and CEO, decided to share the ownership to ensure a logical transition of the company into the future. “ We have dedicated employees, many who have been with us for their entire working careers, it is our obligation to share our good fortune and to make sure the company has a solid base for future growth” 　　 　　The ESOP has helped to solidify the companys growth and security of both our employees ..