Carr, Riggs & Ingram merges with Morrison & Smith in Tuscaloosa

On September 1, 2026, Carr, Riggs & Ingram (CRI), a leading accounting and advisory firm, expanded its presence in Alabama by merging with Tuscaloosa-based Morrison & Smith, LLP. The merger marks CRI's first step into Tuscaloosa, a significant market in western Alabama, and underscores the firm's ongoing growth strategy.

Morrison & Smith, founded in 1951, is a well-established accounting firm with a strong local reputation. The firm offers a range of services, including audit, review, and compilation, as well as tax planning and preparation, accounting, and business advisory services. Its client base includes real estate developers, banks, healthcare providers, and construction companies.

"The addition of Morrison & Smith is a strategic move that aligns with our commitment to serving clients in diverse markets," said Bill Carr, CRI chairman and founding partner. "Barry Burns, Alan Hartley, and Daniel Sutter will bring us a robust local team, and we are excited to grow with them."

Allan D. Koltin, CEO of Koltin Consulting Group, which advised both firms on the merger, echoed Carr's sentiments. "CRI continues to set the standard for successful firm integrations. Morrison & Smith is an excellent fit culturally and strategically, and their clients will benefit greatly from CRI's expanded service offerings."

Under the merger, the Morrison & Smith team will continue to operate from their existing office, now functioning under the CRI name. Clients will have access to CRI's comprehensive suite of services, including expanded tax, assurance, and advisory services, as well as specialized teams in wealth management, data analytics, business consulting, and fractional CFO services.

This strategic move follows CRI's recent growth, which was supported by investments from Centerbridge Partners and Bessemer Venture Partners in late 2024. CRI's growth strategy emphasizes cultural alignment, client retention, and investment in its communities. The firm's portfolio includes a variety of specialized companies, such as Auditwerx, CRI Advanced Analytics, and CRI M&A Advisors.

"We are proud to welcome the Morrison & Smith team to CRI," added Carr. "Tuscaloosa's market potential and the firm's strong local presence make it a natural fit for our growth plans."

For more information, visit criadv.com.