Chris King got his start in Santa Barbara, Calif., in 1976, making parts for medical and military equipment—and bikes. He moved to Portland in 2003 after struggling to find skilled workers who could afford to live in California. King believes in investing in employee compensation and perks. The cafeteria is run by a chef who once worked at the Four Seasons in Seattle. Everyone who works 30 hours a week gets health insurance. Employees who bike to work get credits to spend in the café.
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