Outside magazine has set Feb. 24 as the registration deadline for this year's 2012 “Best Places to Work” nominations. 


With the help of Outdoor Industry Association and the Best Companies Group, Outside’s fifth annual program will rank U.S. companies based on their commitment to helping employees balance productivity with an active lifestyle. The project is open to any for-profit or nonprofit U.S. company with 15 or more employees. The winning companies will be announced in the September 2012 issue of Outside magazine.


Outside’s Best Places to Work program recognizes employers that empower their employees to live bigger, better lives through active participation in the world outside. OIA encourages outdoor recreation companies to apply for the award, both as a way to earn recognition as well as a means to inspire policies that support employees’ outdoor pursuits.

“The outdoor industry lives and breathes the active outdoor lifestyle,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of OIA. “It is possible to have a successful business while also supporting work–life balance – and our industry proves it. As leaders in the outdoor recreation industry, we want to set an example and encourage others to cultivate a thriving company culture. This program is a great motivator.”


“Every year, this project grows as more and more companies recognize the benefits of balancing work and quality of life,” said Outside editor Christopher Keyes. “Our readers are high-performing professionals who are after more than just a paycheck. Through our partnership with the Best Companies Group and Outdoor Industry Association, we’re connecting them with America’s most forward-thinking companies.”


“BCG is honored to once again partner with Outside and Outdoor Industry Association to produce this unique list of organizations that create cultures where employees are healthy, active, and love to come to work,” says Peter B. Burke, president of Best Companies Group. “After three years of studying this growing group of ground-breaking companies, we can’t wait to see what the 2012 winners have to show us.”


Winners from the first four years have ranged from consumer electronics manufacturer Skullcandy to apparel-brand Patagonia to advertising agencies like Colle + McVoy and Carmichael Lynch. Companies making the list have received extensive media coverage, including television features on Good Morning America and Outside Television, and national newspaper stories


For more information about the program and to register the program, visit bestplacestoworkoutside.com.


Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colorado, Outdoor Industry Association is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives, and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment, and services. For more information go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.