Ann Arbor — Kevin Bowker didn't know that a gig offering customers Gouda cheeses at a local deli would turn into owning a slice of the company.

For $1,000, Bowker bought into Zingerman's Community of Businesses after several years of working at Zingerman's Deli. Now, the 14-year company veteran is not only a fish buyer, but a community shareholder who oversees the deli's inventory, participates in company huddles and shares his opinions about issues.

"That makes a big difference as a whole company," said Bowker, 42. "I know my voice can be heard."

The Ann Arbor-based company, which includes restaurants, a bakehouse, food delivery, a coffee roaster, event venues and, of course, the deli, allows employees to own a portion of the company to receive gain shares, pay-outs and more under an

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