Case Study: R&B Wagner achieves simplified sales tax compliance and 40% faster exemption processing with Avalara

R&B Wagner Gets an Assist in Dealing With Sales Tax

R&B Wagner, a Wisconsin family-owned architectural handrail manufacturer founded in the 1850s with about 180 employees, expanded into all 50 states and Canada and sells through multiple channels—many to tax-exempt customers. That growth created tax complexity: more than 11,000 exemption certificates to manage, new and individual nexus obligations across jurisdictions, and online-sales challenges—all managed primarily by one full-time CPA, Dave Chermak.

By fully implementing Avalara’s suite (AvaTax, CertCapture, Returns and nexus monitoring), R&B Wagner automated return filing, enabled customers to upload exemption certificates at checkout (making the process up to 40% more efficient), and gained proactive nexus alerts and registration support. The automation reduced compliance risk, improved processes and staff productivity, and eliminated the need to hire additional tax personnel, letting Dave treat Avalara as a “fourth employee.”

R&B Wagner

Dave Chermak

Accounting Manager