The CPI Group Inc., Columbus, MS. Celebrates Rank in Inc. Magazine-Inc. 500 List

Columbus-Lowndes Development Link Monthly "Business After Hours" Recognizes THE CPI GROUP, INC.s' Ranking to the "2007 INC. 500 LIST…

Columbus... Thursday, September 13th, 2007 proved to be a joyous evening at the Columbus, MS. dining establishment of “Woody’s on the Water,” as a large portion of the community’s business, government, military, and local residents gathered to celebrate The CPI Group, Inc. of Columbus.  The CPI Group had just returned from the “INC.” magazine official awards gala held in Chicago, IL. where The CPI Group received their awards for ranking on the annual “INC. 500” fastest growing private companies in the Nation.  Not only did The CPI Group rank in the top 500, but landed an impressive 242nd place in the top 500, and were the only company from the state of MS. to rate in the top 500.

“We are thrilled and honored to recognize The CPI Group this evening,” stated Melissa Cook, Columbus-Lowndes Development Link Vice-President, Chamber Division.  “To have one of our very own companies recognized on a National scale such as “The Inc. 500” is a testament to the business core of Columbus, MS. which speaks volumes to industrial and retail companies who are looking to expand their companies into our area,” she continued.  “The CPI Group honor is not only for the company itself to shout about- but for our entire Golden Triangle community and the state of Mississippi!”

For more than 25 years, Inc. Magazine has celebrated the remarkable achievements of today’s entrepreneurial superstars with the Inc. 500 List.  The Inc. 500 List recognizes the accomplishments and actions of the most flourishing, fasting growing, private, entrepreneurial companies in the Nation.  Over the years, Inc. Magazine has recognized Microsoft, Timberland, and Domino’s Pizza, long before they became the household branding legends they are today.  Inc. Magazine is familiar with the many challenges associated with building and operating a business in today’s economic whirlwind.  This award is the Premier business award for private companies and their growth in the United States.

 “We are very humbled to have earned a spot on the premiere list for fastest growing privately held companies in the U.S., but are even more humbled when we went to Chicago last week and found ourselves meeting and networking with people from across the U.S. who are leading companies growing in the tens of thousands in percentage over only a year or two, some in excess of $1 billion in revenue per year and employing thousands of people,” exclaimed Mark Smith, President and CEO of The CPI Group.  “We share this honor,” he continued, “with our clients, this wonderful community, our friends who have helped us along the way, and especially this staff, because at the end of the day, your people make all the difference in the world.”

The CPI Group also ranked 23rd on the sub-category listing in the Top Companies in Human Resources.  Their documented growth showed a 966.8% business growth with 2006 revenue of $29.8 million.  Founded in 1983, The CPI Group consists of 14 staff members, and celebrates this 24th year of service with clients and employees with the communities throughout the Golden Triangle, Pine Belt, and Gulf Coast regions of Mississippi.

Versions of the magazine are on newsstands around the Nation and www.inc.com has the official postings online.

For more Information:

The CPI Group, Inc.:  www.cpi-group.com
Inc. 500:  www.inc.com