Maryland firm gives $10M bonus to employees

A Maryland real estate firm surprised its employees by announcing it will pay a $10 million bonus to all 198 of them.

Baltimore-based St. John Properties on Saturday was celebrating having developed 20 million square feet of commercial space in eight states when it told employees the news.

The bonuses will paid based on years of service, with the average employee receiving $50,000.

“To celebrate the achievement of our goal, we wanted to reward our employees in a big way that would make a significant impact on their lives,” said Edward St. John, founder and chairman. “I am thankful for every one of our employees, for their hard work and dedication. I couldn’t think of a better way to show it.”

“My philosophy has always been to surround myself with the best and the brightest – and that is what we have done. Every professional at St. John Properties is committed to excellence every day,” added St. John.

Video of the announcement at the company’s party shows employees reacting with surprise and tears.

“What happened tonight was unimaginable. It is life changing,” one said before tearing up.

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