John Stiglmeier Jr.

Not So Fast

 

The mailbag also contained letters about the INC. 500, including a few from people who were, in one way or another, dismayed by the list.

A company's growth may be indicative of many things (including profitability), but growth at the expense of corporate profitability is hardly something to be honored. Twelve members of the 1987 INC. 500 reported losses in both 1982 and 1986. Fifteen companies reported a loss in 1986 after a break-even or profitable year in 1982. In total, 5.4% (27 of 500) of the 1987 INC. 500 were unprofitable in 1986.

I think INC. needs to reexamine its criteria in the selection of the INC. 500 and recognize those companies that are both growing and making money.