Vastly improved company: perspective from a long-time veteran - Documentation Specialist 50 Below Employee Review

Since ARI took over ownership of 50 Below, the corporate side of things has improved exponentially. I started working for 50 Below shortly before they were bought out, and the only thing I liked was my work and my co-workers. Since ARI has taken over, we have received steady paychecks, direct deposit (which was a huge leap forward from paper checks!), and now a 401k plan. The work ethic that the employees developed during the days of 50 Below has carried through, and they encourage cross-training in different departments and helping out other departments when they're in need. It feels great to have gained skills in other areas of the company that I can add to my resume, and to be encouraged to do so. The culture shock took some getting used to, but has been well worth the transition. ARI has worked hard to move us forward and to keep us happy.

We seem to have kept our old health and dental plans, which are higher cost with mediocre coverage, and they seem to have dropped our vision insurance completely so there is nothing to cover glasses or contacts.

Best Job I've ever had. Yes, it can be pretty stressfull at times, (most professional jobs are) but with a proper outlook, you'll be very hard pressed to find a better job in duluth. Pay is great, Management is great, and the resources you have to learn are endless. I've been here since before the merge with ARI and i can say I'm very glad I stuck it out. If I decide to move on from 50below, I'll have extremely valuable knowledge of an industry that is hard to find quilified people for. Hours are great. Lots of paid vacation. And a real team atmosphere. And managment makes the office a fun place to be.

Still in the dumpy old buildings but ARI has a plan in place to get us into a nice office building in the very near future.