In 2024, Stellar underwent a significant business reorganization that included a reduction in workforce. With this shift, the company needed to re-evaluate its HR and benefits infrastructure, particularly its costly and rigid PEO contract. “We were locked into this PEO contract, paying upwards of $40,000 a month,” said Mark Houle, Head of Finance at Stellar. “We needed a partner who could help us navigate out of that contract, find a more cost-effective solution, and ensure continuity for our employees.” Their goals were clear: Exit their current PEO arrangement without disrupting operations Maintain high-quality employee benefits at a lower cost Gain on-demand HR expertise without hiring a full-time employee

“I can Slack or call their team anytime,” said Houle. “They’re like a safety net for us. We no longer have someone in-house watching HR full-time, but they are. They remind us to run payroll, flag important compliance requirements or notifications, etc.”

Mark Houle

PEO 360 was introduced through Stellar’s Venture Capital Firm and quickly became a trusted advisor in navigating the complexities of transitioning off their former PEO platform. After evaluating several options, PEO 360 recommended transitioning to a non-PEO model with open market benefits and ongoing HR support through Auxo HR - a PEO 360 Solution. “Not only did they help us negotiate out of our PEO contract, but they found us a better benefits plan at one-third the cost,” said Houle. “They were the experts in our corner when we were dealing with sticky offboarding scenarios and contract terms. It gave us real peace of mind.” With Auxo HR, Stellar gained a high-touch HR partner who could scale support to match their needs. From COBRA administration to benefits management and compliance questions, the Auxo team was on call—literally. “I can Slack or call their team anytime,” said Houle. “They’re like a safety net for us. We no longer have someone in-house watching HR full-time, but they are. They remind us to run payroll, flag important compliance requirements or notifications, etc.”

By moving off their former PEO and transitioning to a customized benefits and HR support model, Stellar realized significant savings—more than $200,000 annually. Beyond the hard cost savings, the company gained an agile, knowledgeable partner who delivers high-touch service at a fraction of the cost of a full-time HR team. “For the value you get and the cost you pay, it’s incredible,” said Houle. “It’s like having a Rolls-Royce available to drive at an everyday price.” Today, Stellar continues to rely on PEO 360 and Auxo HR for fast, responsive HR support and compliance guidance. The model is not only financially sustainable—it’s operationally efficient. “What’s refreshing about working with their team is that you don’t have to worry about being oversold. They’re focused on doing what’s best for your business - period.”