In 1998, it also acquired Schiff & Associates, a Texas security engineering firm that advises architects, in an effort to broaden its security advisory practice.

In early 1994 they were acquired by distributor Davidson & Associates for $6.75 million.

Citigroup said: "From the time we announced our intent to acquire Associates, we indicated our full commitment to resolve concerns that had been raised about their business.

In August 2011 the brokerage acquired John Hall & Associates, a Phoenix, Arizona-based real estate brokerage.

Middleberg is acquiring Hayes & Associates, New York, where he had been president and chief executive.

Ford acquired Associates for $3.35 billion in 1989.

In October 2009, the company acquired Dan Hallett & Associates of Windsor, Ontario.

In 1996, it acquired Louis Harris & Associates (founded in 1956) from the Gannett Corporation.

Ford acquired Associates, which is based in Dallas, from Paramount Communications Inc. for $3.35 billion on Oct. 31.

The merged companies together acquired Atlanta-based Nucifora & Associates.