From growing pains to growing gains
When a firm announces a merger, it can be a stressful time for both clients and staff. Darrell Tracey’s long-time client, Paul Murrin, admits he was uncertain what would happen when Darrell merged his Chilliwack-based accounting firm with Meyers Norris Penny in 2003. Paul’s mind was soon put at ease when he realized what a positive impact the move was having on his business.

Darrell and Paul first began working together in 1994. As president of Wedler Engineering Ltd., Paul relied on Darrell for accounting and tax expertise. When Darrell decided to merge with MNP, Paul was one of the first clients he called.

Darrell explained to Paul how the merger would enable him to offer more diverse services to meet Wedler’s growing needs, including expertise in key advisory services such as succession, supply chain management and strategic business planning.

While Paul was initially sceptical of the change, he was soon won over. “Since joining MNP, we’ve been able to take advantage of all kinds of added services. We use them as a resource on all matters related to business, in addition to general accounting and tax.”

A Western connection
Specializing in public infrastructure projects, Wedler Engineering is based in Chilliwack, B.C., with operations throughout the Fraser Valley. Paul says he appreciates that MNP is also focused on the West.

“I love that MNP is a Western Canadian firm, and believes in giving back to the communities its serves.”

Paul adds that through MNP, he has continued to receive the friendly, personalized service of a smaller firm, while enjoying the diverse resources and expertise he would expect from a larger firm. Since the merger, Darrell has assisted Wedler in many new areas, including risk and internal fraud prevention, valuations, and an extensive executive search. 

Full steam ahead
Currently, Darrell and Paul are in the midst of their biggest project to date: Reorganizing Wedler’s business structure, including expanding operations through an acquisition. Part of the reason for the reorganization is the potential for major tax savings.

Wedler has also experienced considerable growth and owner change in the past five years. A new business structure makes sense for the growing company and will help manage ownership and profits moving forward.

Paul is pleased his business is still at a manageable size. “With MNP’s assistance, we’re being proactive with our growth strategy by developing policies and procedures, and checks and balances ahead of time.”

Darrell is equally upbeat about the positive relationship the two firms have built over the years: “We’ve had a hand in helping to shape their success – it’s been fun and extremely rewarding to know we’ve been able to contribute to their growth.”

It’s all about relationships
Outside of work, Paul and Darrell have enjoyed getting to know each other personally at company golf tournaments, Christmas parties and by having lunch together.

“We’ll go out for lunch or drinks and just pick each other’s brains on anything from Wedler’s business to what’s going on in business in general,” says Darrell. “It’s a great sounding board for both of us.”

Wedler and MNP have enjoyed working together over the years, and have witnessed tremendous growth in each other’s businesses. Given how strong their relationship is, it looks like they’ll be maintaining those close ties for many more to come.

“We know we can count on MNP,” smiles Paul. “They’ve always been on our side.”

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