| Key Points: – CBIZ to acquire Marcum in a $2.3 billion cash-and-stock deal – Transaction will make CBIZ the seventh-largest accounting services provider in the U.S. – Combined annual revenue expected to reach $2.8 billion post-acquisition |
In a landmark move that’s set to reshape the landscape of professional services in the United States, CBIZ, Inc. (NYSE: CBZ) announced on July 31, 2024, its agreement to acquire Marcum, LLP for approximately $2.3 billion. This strategic acquisition will catapult CBIZ to the position of the seventh-largest accounting services provider in the country, with projected annual revenues of $2.8 billion.
The transaction, which is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024, will see CBIZ acquire Marcum’s non-attest business. Concurrently, Mayer Hoffman McCann P.C., a long-standing partner of CBIZ, will acquire Marcum’s attest business. The deal structure involves a mix of cash and stock, with about half the consideration to be paid in each form.
Founded in 1951, Marcum has established itself as a formidable player in the accounting and advisory services sector. With 43 offices across major U.S. markets and a client base exceeding 35,000, Marcum brings significant scale and expertise to the table. The firm’s annual revenue of approximately $1.2 billion and workforce of over 3,500 professionals will substantially boost CBIZ’s market presence and service capabilities.
Jerry Grisko, President and CEO of CBIZ, hailed the acquisition as “the most significant transaction in CBIZ’s history.” He emphasized the enhanced value proposition for clients, stating, “Together, we will provide a breadth of services and depth of expertise that is unmatched in our industry.”
The merger is expected to yield numerous benefits for CBIZ. It will strengthen the company’s market position in the middle market segment and accelerate growth while improving acquisition capabilities. The combined entity will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent, expand service offerings, and deepen industry expertise. Furthermore, the merger will enable increased investment in technology and innovation, potentially driving significant shareholder value, with an estimated 10% contribution to adjusted earnings per share in 2025.
Jeffrey Weiner, Chairman & CEO of Marcum, expressed enthusiasm about the merger, highlighting the shared commitment to high-quality services and the potential for leveraging combined strengths to better serve clients. He emphasized the similarities in their business models and the opportunities this merger presents for bringing more diversified services and greater subject matter expertise to their clientele.
The transaction is subject to approval by CBIZ stockholders and Marcum’s partners, along with other customary closing conditions. Both companies have engaged top-tier financial and legal advisors to facilitate the deal, underscoring the significance of this merger in the professional services landscape.
This acquisition marks a significant milestone in the professional services industry, creating a powerhouse with unparalleled reach and capabilities. As the business world continues to evolve, the combined entity of CBIZ and Marcum appears well-positioned to meet the diverse and complex needs of middle-market clients across the United States.
The market’s response to this announcement will be closely watched, as it could potentially trigger further consolidation in the professional services sector. For now, all eyes are on CBIZ and Marcum as they prepare to join forces in what promises to be a transformative union in the world of accounting and advisory services. The success of this merger could set a new standard for strategic growth and client service in the industry, potentially influencing future moves by other major players in the field.
