Increasing numbers of architectural, engineering and design firms are actively looking at acquiring or merging with other firms or considering selling their practice. This growing interest and the dramatic consolidation we are now seeing within our industry are due to a convergence of factors: • To sustain their size, large firms need to expand their client base, either geographically or by entering new market sectors, and realize that the most effective way to do this is by merging with or acquiring other firms. • Large institutional and corporate clients are using fewer architectural firms to execute their projects while also insisting that these firms establish offices or align with firms in close proximity to each of the clients' projects. • As part of differentiating themselves from their competitors, firms are relying on mergers and acquisitions to expand their range of services and strategic consulting. • Many small- and mid-size firms are finding it harder to remain profitable in this economy and have exhausted their staying power. • Many baby-boomers who own architectural firms are searching for a viable exit strategy as they look ahead toward retirement. • Firms that have the opportunity to expand, but are stifled by the dearth of qualified staff, are acquiring other firms to gain access to their key staff. Strogoff Consulting's Clearinghouse Services Strogoff Consulting offers confidential introductions between prospective buyers and sellers and guides them through the merger and acquisition process. As a strategic advisor to firms throughout the U.S., Michael Strogoff, AIA, has an extensive network of contacts and an insider’s knowledge of the architectural industry. Firms are introduced to each other only if there is a strong strategic and cultural fit. See MERGER & ACQUISITION OPPORTUNITIES