Vancouver's Bench Accounting to be acquired after abrupt closure

Vancouver-based bookkeeping service Bench Accounting has announced its sudden closure, potentially putting hundreds of staff out of work. The Bench Accounting logo is seen in an undated handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO

A California-based HR tech company says it will acquire a Vancouver-based bookkeeping service that abruptly halted operations last week.

Bench Accounting announced its sudden closure on Friday, putting hundreds of staff out of work and forcing clients to seek alternatives just days from the end of the year.

Employer.com says in a statement it has been working with Bench customers behind the scenes to ensure a seamless transition.

The company says customers will continue working with the same in-house bookkeepers and that all of their data is intact, secure and protected.

‍Bench Accounting Chief People Officer Jennifer Bouyoukos says the firm is pleased to have found a home for many of its customers and employees.

Employer.com CEO Jesse Tinsley says his company is excited to build on Bench's legacy of being a "trusted partner to small businesses."

“While the challenges Bench recently faced were unexpected, we recognized an extraordinary opportunity to integrate their capabilities into our own suite of solutions. By combining forces, we can create even more value for Bench’s loyal customers while extending the reach and impact of Employer.com’s offerings," he said in the statement Monday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 30, 2024.