Collins Barrow National projecting continued growth in 2014

TORONTO, Dec. 23, 2013 /CNW/ - Since embarking on an ambitious growth strategy late 2012, Collins Barrow has added five offices in targeted geographic areas and the network's search for contenders continues.

Gaining momentum following the addition of Collins Barrow Durham in Courtice, Ontario in late 2012; the network was poised for further growth in 2013. Following the roll out of the punch campaign, which invited leading regional firms to "punch above their weight class," Collins Barrow successfully recruited new member firms in both Manitoba and Saskatchewan. These moves represented the network's long-anticipated return to the Prairies.

Collins Barrow HMA, the largest professional accounting firm in Northern Manitoba, joined the network mid-November 2013. With locations in Winnipeg and The Pas, it was the first Manitoba firm to extend service to both the northern and southern regions of the province.

Only one week later, Collins Barrow PQ was inducted to the network. Based out of Saskatoon and Yorkton, Saskatchewan, it has been providing service throughout Western Canada since 1920. With a strong track record of success within the community, the firm continues to uphold its tradition of excellence by adding to its cadre of specialty services.

By all accounts, this changes business as usual. While strengthening resources and market positioning, Collins Barrow uniquely enables member firms to retain their independence and autonomy. Aside from demonstrating an unparalleled focus on entrepreneurialism, this key component of the network's value proposition sets Collins Barrow apart from its national competitors. It's the icing on the cake insofar as onboarded firms are concerned.

Member firms of Collins Barrow have added advantages of:

• Support from a collaborative network of professionals from coast to coast
• Enhanced brand recognition through nationally led marketing initiatives
• Cutting edge human resource strategies to attract, develop and retain top talent
• Proven governance infrastructure
• Capacity to offer clients a broader range of specialty services

According to Harry Blum, Chair of Collins Barrow National's Firm Recruitment Initiative, the growth strategy shows no signs of letting up.

"The addition of these new member firms demonstrates that the market is ready for a true national alternative for audit, tax and advisory services across the board," says Harry. "Entrepreneurial member firms of Collins Barrow are taking stock of their client needs and looking for innovative solutions that will enable swift and effective responses to business demands."

"By acting on this unique opportunity to join our national network, new member firms are eliminating traditional barriers to growth," adds Daniel Longlade, National Chair of Collins Barrow. "They gain access to a vast array of shared resources to drive business, while maintaining the fierce independence that enabled them to become leading contenders in their respective markets."

Moving into 2014, Collins Barrow's recruitment campaign focuses on full-service audit and tax firms. The search continues for firms with:

• Demonstrated market presence
• Revenues over $5-million
• Charted plans for growth
• Service differentiators and unique expertise

Collins Barrow's National Firm Recruitment Committee welcomes discussions with qualifying firms.

"Ultimately, we are looking for market leaders who are focused on accelerating their business to the next level," says Stephen Chris, National Director of Operations for Collins Barrow National. "Beyond expanding the national footprint of the network, this growth is being undertaken strategically to further the excellence that Collins Barrow member firms offer clients throughout the country."

On offer is essentially a turnkey approach with a demonstrated record of success in enabling regional firms to punch above their weight class and win.

SOURCE: Collins Barrow National Cooperative Incorporated

Harry Blum
National Chair, Firm Recruitment Initiative
Collins Barrow National
416.480.0160
[email protected]

Stephen Chris
National Director of Operations
Collins Barrow National
519.725.2539
[email protected]

Janice Chan
Media relations
647.727.3645
[email protected]