Employee involvement transforms Granarolo : Systematic consultation covers all main aspects of the business

Purpose – Reveals how an Italian company that faced bankruptcy in the late 1990s has transformed its fortunes through the close involvement of its employees and other stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach – Sketches the history of Granarolo, its focus on product quality and the various methods through which stakeholders take part in company decision‐making. Findings – Shows that systematic engagement covers all main aspects of the business. Practical implications – Argues that Granarolo's corporate reputation has been built on a network of stakeholder partnerships through which the company continuously improves organizational learning and develops new business solutions. Social implications – Highlights some of the ways in which the wider community is involved in decision‐making at Granarolo. Originality/value – Details the thoroughgoing process of consultation behind the success of an Italian food company.