Who Technically Owns the Packers?

By Jason Bolton November 27, 2023 08:46

The Green Bay Packers are a unique team in the NFL. Unlike other professional football franchises, the Packers are community-owned, making them the only publicly owned team in the league. This ownership structure has been in place since the team's inception in 1919 and has remained a source of pride for both the team and its fans. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of the Packers' ownership, how it differs from traditional ownership models, and the benefits and challenges associated with this unique arrangement.

The story of community ownership for the Green Bay Packers began in the early 1920s when the team faced financial difficulties. To ensure the team's survival, local businessman Earl "Curly" Lambeau organized a stock sale in 1923, allowing fans to purchase shares in the team. This move not only raised the necessary funds but also forged a deep connection between the Packers and their community.

The Packers' ownership structure is governed by a non-profit corporation, the Green Bay Packers, Inc. The organization is overseen by a board of directors, elected by shareholders. The corporation is required to follow strict guidelines set forth by the NFL to maintain its non-profit status.

Shares of the Packers do not appreciate in value and do not pay dividends. They cannot be sold or transferred like traditional stocks. Instead, they can only be transferred to immediate family members or sold back to the team at a significantly reduced price. This arrangement ensures that the team remains connected to its community and discourages the accumulation of shares by wealthy individuals or corporations.

The community ownership model of the Packers provides several unique advantages. Firstly, it fosters a strong sense of community pride and involvement. Shareholders have a direct say in the team's decision-making process and elect the board of directors, ensuring that the interests of the fans and the community are represented.

Secondly, community ownership helps ensure the long-term stability of the team. Unlike privately owned teams that may relocate or change ownership, the Packers have remained in Green Bay for over a century. The local support and dedication to the team have been instrumental in keeping the Packers rooted in their community.

Furthermore, the Packers' ownership structure allows the team to focus on long-term success rather than immediate profits. Instead of prioritizing the financial interests of a small group of owners, the team can make decisions based on what is best for the community and the team's long-term success.

While community ownership is cherished by Packers fans, it does come with its own set of challenges. One criticism is that the team's ability to generate revenue is limited compared to privately owned teams. The Packers cannot sell naming rights to their stadium or secure large sponsorship deals, which can impede their financial growth.

Another challenge is the difficulty in raising significant funds for stadium improvements or expansions. The Packers rely heavily on the support of their fans through stock sales and donations, which may not be sufficient to compete with privately owned teams that have access to greater financial resources.

The Green Bay Packers' unique ownership structure sets them apart from other NFL franchises. Community ownership has allowed the team to thrive for over a century, fostering a deep connection between the Packers and their fans. While it presents challenges in terms of financial limitations, the benefits of community ownership, including community pride, stability, and a focus on long-term success, outweigh the drawbacks. The Packers remain a shining example of how a team can be owned by the people it represents, making them a symbol of community spirit and loyalty.