Accounting firms Collins Barrow and Smith Nixon merge to Create Mid-market Powerhouse

TORONTO, June 26 - Accounting firms Collins Barrow Toronto and Smith Nixon have merged to create one of Toronto's largest audit practices with 22 partners and more than 130 professionals and staff serving the mid-market. This is the first mid-market merger of its size in more than 25 years and bucks the Big Four take-over trend.

"Collins Barrow and Smith Nixon have outstanding reputations for attracting talented partners and professionals, and provide clients with unparalleled service," said Collins Barrow managing partner Harry Blum. "By merging, we are creating a powerhouse for mid-sized companies that fits their needs and values."

Collins Barrow will feature a unique blend of capable professionals with a depth and breadth of experience to ensure clients meet the most rigorous audit, tax and transaction needs. The firm will serve and grow several sectors including private equity, investment funds, manufacturing, professional services and be auditor to more than 150 public entities in Canada.

"The merger represents a union of equals in approach, culture and vision," said John Sinclair, a partner and member of Smith Nixon's management committee. "The new Collins Barrow Toronto will provide audit, tax and transaction services designed to give mid-sized companies the hands-on attention and service they need to grow and thrive. As a growing firm with an entrepreneurial spirit like ourselves, we understand the challenges these companies face every day."

"As a mid-sized business, I find that similarly sized accounting firms have a better understanding of our needs and provide better service compared to the Big Four," said Mavrix Fund Management CFO and portfolio manager Ray Steele, a client of Smith Nixon. "We have greater access to the most senior partners, more consistent work relationships due to low staff turnover, and the flexibility to make changes at the last minute. We look forward to working with the new Collins Barrow with its increased capabilities to help us reach our full potential."

About Collins Barrow Canada

Collins Barrow is Canada's largest association of Chartered Accounting firms and the eighth largest group of chartered professional accountants in Canada with more than 40 offices from coast to coast. Known as Canada's mid-market alternative for audit, tax and advisory solutions, we have developed a reputation for quality and value added financial advice due to the depth and breadth of in-house skills, customized offerings, commitment to excellence in customer service and our national reach.

We serve companies from a cross section of industries and at all stages of their development from large publicly traded companies to emerging and owner managed businesses.

For further information:

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