The 50 Best Places to Work in America

Published April 6, 2010 12:00AM

We've announced our annual “Best Places to Work” list. Of the 50 selected companies, Natural Habitat Adventures, New Belgium Brewing, and Clif Bar & Company claimed the top spots. The full list and related story will be published in the May issue of Outside magazine, available on newsstands April 27, 2010. Outside's “Best Places to Work” list was compiled with the help of the Outdoor Industry Association and Best Companies Group.

The year-long selection process began with an outreach effort that identified a wide range of non-profit and for-profit organizations with at least 15 employees working in the United States. Participating companies were then sent confidential employee-satisfaction surveys and employer-questionnaires to collect information about benefits, compensation, policies, job satisfaction, environmental initiatives, and community outreach programs. All of the results were analyzed by Best Companies Group experts, who selected the 50 companies that strive to enhance their employees' enjoyment of active endeavors, and environmental and social involvement.

“These 50 companies come from a vast array of industries but they're all following the same enlightened path,” said Michael Roberts, Executive Editor of Outside. “They're successful businesses in a challenging economy precisely because they support a proper work-life balance. They know that benefits like on-site gyms and fitness classes, reimbursements for ski passes and sports racing fees, and support for community service efforts during work hours make their employees happier and thus more productive.”

Outside is America’s leading active lifestyle magazine, with over two million readers a month. For more than 30 years, the magazine has covered travel, sports, adventure, health, and fitness, as well as the personalities, the environment, and the style and culture of the world Outside. Along with receiving many other accolades, Outside is the only magazine to win three consecutive National Magazine Awards for General Excellence. Visit the magazine online at www.outsideonline.com

Best Companies Group was formed in January of 2004, with the purpose of identifying and recognizing best companies around the country. By using state-of-the art survey and indexing tools, BCG has been able to achieve that purpose on national, state-wide, city, and industry stages. BCG will partner with B-to-B and consumer media and other business or human resource organizations to publicize the opportunity, encourage participation and to recognize those who are good enough to make the lists of “Best Places to Work”. BCG currently manages 25 similar programs around the US and in Canada. For more information and a complete list of “Best Employer” programs, visit www.bestcompaniesgroup.com

Founded in 1989, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the premier trade association for companies in the active outdoor recreation business. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. Outdoor Industry Association seeks to ensure a healthy and diverse specialty retail and supply chain based on quality, innovation and service. To this end, OIA works diligently to raise the standards of the industry; increase participation in outdoor recreation to strengthen business markets; provide support services to improve member profitability; represent member interests in the legislative/regulatory process; promote professional training and education; support innovation; and offer cost-saving member benefits.