Principal Financial Group outperformed the benchmark in client loyalty in the 2011 Chatham Partners Client Satisfaction Survey of medium-to-large defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Ninety-eight percent of clients said they plan to maintain or increase their relationship with The Principal.

"The top ratings provided by clients of The Principal are demonstrative of its industry leadership and the consistently excellent service delivered by its client service professionals," said Joshua Dietch, managing director of Chatham Partners.

Overall satisfaction with the company continues to be strong, with a 97 percent overall satisfaction score. According to the survey, the company exceeded the benchmark in nearly all measures of satisfaction, including excellent reputation as a retirement plan service provider, reduces its clients administrative burden, overall satisfaction with client service personnel, flexibility in meeting its clients unique needs, keeping clients informed of their fiduciary responsibilities, and defined benefit actuarial consulting skills.