Baker Tilly Acquires Houston-Based MRZ

Accounting and advisory firm Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP (Baker Tilly) and MiddletonRaines+Zapata (MRZ), a Houston-area accounting and advisory firm, announce their intent to merge with an effective date expected by the end of the year.

Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth-largest city in the U.S. behind New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. “MRZ is one of the fastest-growing accounting firms in Houston,” Baker Tilly Chairman and CEO Alan D. Whitman said. “They are progressive and entrepreneurial and are an ideal partner for us in Houston.”

“We are proud of our reputation for delivering innovative accounting and tax solutions through a high-energy, hands-on client experience,” MRZ Managing Partner Wesley Middleton said. “Joining forces with Baker Tilly gives us national resources and broader capabilities to better serve our clients and provide growth and development opportunities for our team members.”

MRZ and Baker Tilly share a focus on the client experience and industry specialization. MRZ’s industry strengths are highly compatible with Baker Tilly’s, particularly construction and real estate, manufacturing and healthcare. MRZ also specializes in the oil and gas industry. Baker Tilly’s specialization in private equity and tax credits and incentives will be a competitive addition to MRZ’s offerings in the Houston market.

Allan D. Koltin, CEO of Koltin Consulting Group, advised both firms on the merger. “MRZ represents the type of firm that larger firms dream of aligning with – great leadership, dynamic growth, innovation, young talented professionals and a passion for client service. Wes Middleton and his partners were courted by almost every major CPA firm in the country to become their Houston office. In the end, they loved Baker Tilly’s strategy, culture and leadership and knew it provided the best growth opportunities for their people and clients. Baker Tilly continues to be one of the highest-performing Top 15 CPA firms in the country. This combination is a huge step for them in Texas and I believe it is only the beginning of their expansion plans throughout the state.”