It probably comes as no surprise to HR professionals that providing benefits is the major concern among their peers across the nation.

And the two biggest challenges in the benefits arena for employers are the need to control costs while attracting and retaining a competitive workforce, according to the second annual Benefits Strategy & Benchmarking Survey, conducted by Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. More than 1,800 businesses of all types, sizes and geographies participated.

"Although organizations may be aware of the changes that are shaping the future of the employee benefits market, the survey suggests that many are not yet ready to face the challenges these changes will bring," said James W. Durkin Jr., president of Employee Benefit Consulting and Brokerage. "Those that adequately adapt to the current reality will optimize their ability to mitigate future costs."