CBIZ Acquires Non-Attest Business of Tampa Accounting Firm

Accounting and business process outsourcing firm CBIZ has announced that it acquired the non-attest business of Tampa, Florida-based Lewis, Birch & Ricardo, L.L.C., effective February 1, 2014. The firm's attest business is being acquired by Mayer Hoffman McCann P.C. CBIZ Inc. and Mayer Hoffman McCann P.C. said they will operate using an alternative practice structure. 

Formed in 1990, Lewis, Birch & Ricardo was formed in 1990, and provides professional tax, accounting and consulting services, with niche expertise in divorce and family law litigation support, not-for-profit accounting and healthcare provider services. With the acquisition, 58 employees of the firm are being retained by CBIZ. .

“We've known the local CBIZ professionals for the past twenty years and have had a great relationship with them,” said Lewis, Birch & Ricard founder Mike Lewis  “We now look forward to working together as a team.  It's also exciting to join the sixth-largest local accounting service provider, not to mention one of the nation's leading providers.”

The chairman and CEO of CBIZ, Steve Gerard, said in a statement, “We welcome Mike and the rest of the LBR team to CBIZ. Their reputation, high professional standards, commitment to quality and their clients fit the characteristics we seek in building out our current markets.  Their experience and technical expertise will be a great addition to our existing and thriving Tampa Bay area operations.”