LIVONIA, Mich., Oct. 12 -- Valassis, the leading company in marketing services and Connective Media(TM), announced today that it has been chosen by the Michigan Business & Professional Association (MBPA) as one of "Metropolitan Detroit's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For." Sponsored by the largest small business trade association in Michigan, the award identifies and honors southeastern Michigan's most desirable employers. The MBPA recognizes its honorees as "companies that work with imagination and conviction to create organizational value and business results through their policies and best practices." Judging is based on diversity and multi- culturalism; work/life balance; communication; compensation and benefits; employee education and development; recruiting and selection; recognition and retention; employee engagement and commitment; and community initiatives. "Our employees are central to our success, taking us to new heights with their innovative ideas, passion for their jobs and energy to make Valassis a great place to work," said Marcia Hyde, Valassis Vice President of Human Resources and the Communications Center. "We believe in hiring the best and the brightest employees and this recognition is a reflection of their talent. We are proud to be recognized for the best practices that have become a part of our culture at Valassis." Valassis offers employees an on-site doctor, fitness center, hair and nail salon and family room; biannual bonuses; a fully funded profit-sharing plan; tuition reimbursement and a host of family-friendly benefits that encourage longevity. In 2005, Valassis employees marked the company's first $1 billion in revenue with thank you parties; offered employees increased vacation time and a 401(k) match; hosted former Detroit Piston Rick Mahorn for its Bring Your Kids to Work Day celebration; served free lunch on snowy days on multiple occasions; and presented holiday baskets to all employees which included Waterford crystal goblets and gourmet foods. Valassis has also been recognized by FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For" list for eight consecutive years and is a member of the magazine's "Hall of Fame." In August 2005, Valassis was named a "Cool Place to Work" by Crain's Detroit Business. The company has been named to the "Best and Brightest" list three times.