The UK’s equity experts
Vestd was the first purpose-built platform for ESOPs. We have helped thousands of founders to create share and option schemes.
Employee stock option plans (ESOPs) explained
Set up and manage an employee stock option plan (ESOP) on Vestd, the UK’s leading equity platform. Tax-efficient, guided, and fully digital.
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Why launch an employee stock option plan?
Employee stock option plans (ESOPs) help you attract, retain and motivate top talent. Vestd makes it easy to launch a tax-efficient plan tailored to your company’s needs.
✓ 95% of customers say their scheme has increased employee retention
✓ You can set specific conditions for recipients
✓ Equity improves productivity and engagement
How to issue shares and options
The old way involves lawyers and accountants. The new way is much more straightforward. You can issue stock options and shares directly via the Vestd platform, with automatic updates to Companies House.
How companies structure employee stock option plans
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but here’s how UK startups and SMEs typically design their stock option plans:
Each company is different but there are a few proven pathways to follow. Here are a few fast facts about ESOPs:
✓ Average employee equity pools are c.18%
✓ Execs are twice as likely to get shares or options
✓ EMI schemes offer the best tax efficiency
✓ Growth shares are the most non-dilutive
✓ Unapproved options are fast and flexible
Talk to a specialist
We'd love to learn about your business and goals, and demonstrate how our platform will transform the way you share, manage and track ownership.