Wipfli Announces Merger with Stirtz Bernards; Merger to Provide Greater Depth of Service to the...

Business Editors

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 24, 2003

Wipfli LLP and Stirtz Bernards Boyden Surdel & Larter, P.A. (Stirtz) will join in a merger effective December 1, 2003. The move brings together two strong area names in public accounting and management consulting

Stirtz is known for delivering exceptional accounting, tax, and business consulting services in and around Minnesota. "We take pride in providing quality services to our clients. This partnership will only enhance that capability with Wipfli's wide breadth of industry knowledge and services," states Gary Surdel, president of Stirtz.

Adding Stirtz's 51 business experts brings Wipfli's total employee roster to over 600. "There was never a doubt that our two firms fit together perfectly," says Greg Barber, managing partner for Wipfli. "Their people and reputation for high client service complements our own."

Now with two offices and 90 people in the Twin Cities, Wipfli is looking forward to expanding its services to the greater metro area. A particular focus will be growing the premier specialties for financial institutions, health care, manufacturing, auto dealerships, nonprofit organizations, real estate, and private financial services. "We are well-situated to deliver the extensive service capabilities that our clients have come to rely on," adds Barber. "We view the Twin Cities area as a viable and expansive market." The combined firm will be known as Wipfli LLP. This merger brings Wipfli's network of offices throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin to 18.

On November 1, 2003, Wipfli also merged with Williams Young LLC in Madison, Wisconsin, which added 80 professionals with expertise in multiple industries. Wipfli will continue to provide assurance, tax, controllership, information technology, and consulting services to its more than 20,000 clients throughout the Midwest. For more information, visit www.wipfli.com.