Spanning over 100 years and four generations, Wilcox Family Farms has grown from a 240-acre farm established in 1909 by founders Judson and Elizabeth Wilcox, to over 1,800 acres in the foothills of Mt. Rainier. The company is working toward becoming the leading supplier of eggs from 100% organic and cage-free chickens.
One of the keys to Wilcox Family Farm’s success has been the company’s ability to strategically adapt in the face of a changing market and economy. In 2005, they revised their commitment to sustainability, and in response to the growing demand for organic and cage-free eggs, as well as the company’s desire to sustain the land, community, and company for the future, they began to transition to 100% cage-free systems and organic raising methods for their chickens. Since 2005, they have made steady progress toward the 100% cage-free and organic goal. In 2008, they closed the dairy business to focus on egg production.
The fourth generation recently took the helm of Wilcox Family Farms. Both great-grandsons to founder Judson, Brent Wilcox now serves as President and CEO, and Chris Wilcox is Chairman of the Board. Brent's father Barrie Wilcox, and Chris's father Jim Wilcox are currently advisors to the company.
In this presentation in our Family Business Legacy Series, Barrie, Jim, Brent, Andy, Chris, and State Representative J.T. Wilcox, discussed how family businesses can prepare the next generation for success and capitalize on innovation without sacrificing the traditions and legacy of the family business.