Rehmann, a fully integrated professional advisory firm, has revealed its plans for a business combination with Kmetz, Elwell, Graham & Associates (KEGA), a CPA firm based in Vero Beach, Florida. 

Founded in 1977, KEGA provides a range of tax, accounting, and audit services.  

As part of the agreement, KEGA will adopt the Rehmann name but will continue to operate from its current location for the time being.  

The business combination will take effect on 1 June 2025.  

Rehmann CEO Stacie Kwaiser said: “Just like Rehmann, KEGA believes in providing exceptional support to its clients and opportunities for its associates. 

“With values like integrity and respect, community and stewardship, KEGA fits perfectly with Rehmann’s people-first culture.” 

The firm is located a short distance from Rehmann’s existing Vero Beach office.  

The proximity of the two offices is expected to create a stronger combined entity that will offer enhanced services and opportunities in the region, Rehmann said in its press release.  

There are plans in the future to combine the two offices to optimise operations and better serve clients in the region. 

Rehmann also expects the merger to contribute to the growth of its wealth management practice. 

KEGA’s associates and management team will remain part of the firm following the business combination, although Senior Partner Michael Kmetz will retire after 46 years with the company.  

KEGA managing partner Brian Elwell said: “The industry faces challenges, especially for a small, local firm. 

“We found we needed the resources of a larger group. Rehmann offers the service lines that clients are looking for, such as international tax, technology, wealth management, and cybersecurity, among others. Now our clients can benefit from those increased resources.” 

This development comes after the recent release of Rehmann’s 2024 Annual Report, which highlighted the company’s focus on balancing digital innovation with personal connections in a technology-driven world.