Mergers and acquisitions (M&As) have been present in the world since time immemorial. The origin of M&As has its roots in the ancient times. Historically, mergers have served as a strategic tool for companies to expand their market share, acquire resources, increase efficiency and gain competitive advantages.
In recent times, M&As have become increasingly prevalent in the business sector. Mergers act as a cost-cutting mechanism and allow companies to create larger corporations that can compete more effectively in the global market. This has resulted in an increased focus on merger strategies among many corporations.
Merger strategies are typically used to increase a company’s market share, boost revenues, and consolidate resources. The core objective of a merger is to increase a company’s competitiveness by improving operational efficiencies, reducing overhead costs and generating economies of scale.
One of the most common merger strategies is a horizontal merger. This type of merger involves merging two companies in the same industry, with similar products and services. Examples of horizontal mergers include the merger of AT&T and Bell Atlantic and the merger between Glaxo and SmithKline. These mergers create larger firms that have greater market share and fewer competitors in the industry.
Other merger strategies include vertical mergers, where two companies from different industries merge in order to benefit from synergies and better management know-how. Examples of vertical mergers include the merger between Lockheed Martin and Martin Marietta, and the merger between Boeing and Airbus.
Finally, the third type of merger that is becoming increasingly popular is the conglomerate merger. A conglomerate merger involves two companies from different industries that are unrelated. Examples of this type of merger include the merger between Marriott International and Starwood Hotels, and the merger between Time Warner and Turner Broadcasting.
M&As are a powerful tool that can be used to create competitive advantages. Companies that merge can benefit from increased market share, access to new technologies, cost savings, and economies of scale. However, they can also be a risky endeavor and must be approached in a strategic manner. Companies should consider the advantages and disadvantages of merging, as well as the implications of the merger for their other strategic objectives.