What are the formal and informal factors critical in the post-merger integration, contributing to successful mergers?

Abstract

The thesis explores the factors to consider for a successful post-merger integration. The hy-pothesis states that there are several levels of formal and informal factors critical in the post-merger integration contributing to successful mergers. The main focus of companies has typi-cally been on addressing possible synergies and financial effects. However, while analyzing the outcome of merger and acquisitions it has been seen that 70 to 90 percent of mergers fail to meet the long term financial goals over time. This indicates that the assessment of possible partners for a merger may not be the most effective. This thesis argues that factors such as organizational and cultural compatibility need to play a stronger role when selecting a partner to merge or acquire.