Ingredients for a Best Place to Work: “Positive, upbeat energy” is how Annie Gerlach, controller, describes the highly creative and collaborative atmosphere at Gator Garb Promotions (asi/202667). The team takes its cue from owner and President Cole Stark, who Gerlach says “treats employees as partners rather than subordinates. There’s a genuine open-door policy where ideas are heard, successes are celebrated and professional growth is actively nurtured.” The distributor has a deeply rooted family-first philosophy, and Gerlach says it’s common for kids and pets to stop by for a visit.

Gator Garb Promotions (asi/202667) employees participate in a charity bowling event.

Top Benefits & Perks: Gator Garb offers a wellness reimbursement program that staffers have used to purchase gym equipment, learn a musical instrument or build a garden. Team members can work virtually two days a week, and the company regularly gets together for fun outings, charity events and a monthly lunch celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. In addition to the “Employee of the Year” selected by their co-workers, the distributor holds “Gator Gratitude” each quarter, where employees nominate teammates who go above and beyond; both the winner and the nominator earn prizes and are recognized in a team meeting. “These programs reward the employees and give meaningful, positive feedback from their peers,” says Gerlach.

Parting Tip: Building a foundation of trust is crucial. Says Gerlach: “This is done through action – showing work ethic and willingness to help others, listening to and following up on employee ideas or concerns, and sharing the why behind company decisions. This leads to employees feeling like partners.”

If Gator Garb Promotions Were a TV Show, It Would Be Parks and Recreation. “It reflects our optimism, dedication to community impact and a ‘we’re all in this together’ mentality,” Gerlach says.