Local accounting and business advisory firm MarksNelson is building up its expertise in tech by acquiring Blue Ocean Consulting, a Lenexa firm.

Blue Ocean offers a range of technology consulting services, including custom software development, data analytics, help with the Industrial Internet of Things and more.

“Technology is transforming the way accounting firms do business,” said Mark Radetic, MarksNelson’s managing partner.

“Bringing two known brands in our respective fields together gives us the tools to better serve our clients by providing more comprehensive, innovative offerings. The merger of accounting and technology in one firm gives us the ability to lead the way into the future and meet our clients’ broader business needs.”

MarksNelson and Blue Ocean Consulting serve similar kinds of customers, including small and medium-sized businesses and clients in construction, economic development and manufacturing.

Blue Ocean will operate under its current name until this summer, when its team relocates to MarksNelson’s offices in Kansas City.

“MarksNelson is highly rated nationally for their performance among CPA firms and growth. We have experienced a similar trajectory,” said Blue Ocean Consulting President Scott Carson. “We share a belief in empowering and developing our employees. By bringing two strong Kansas City brands together, we will provide more opportunities for our employees and better serve both firms’ clients.”