Why Business Marriages Fail: A Practical Guide to Merger and Acquisition Risks Caused by Cultural Differences

For the past 20 years, US businesses have lost an average of $11.3 billion a year to failed mergers and acquisitions. The failures cross market cycles, industries, and deal size. These "business marriages" are costly not only because they destroy value-they diminish market share, damage business relationships, and tarnish once-respected brands. The author interviewed 100 M&A experts in varying deal roles to determine the underlying causes for the persistently poor track record. The experts strongly agree that failure to assess the cultures of the prospective partners prior to deal close often results in unanticipated, post-deal "culture clashes" that disrupt the cohesiveness of the leadership team, destabilize the business operation, and derail execution of brilliant business strategies. Why Business Marriages Fail is a pragmatic, easy-to-read handbook warning that the risks created by cultural differences may be even greater than the financial risks inherent with M&A transactions. The book provides strong insight into why these risks are routinely overlooked or discounted and how quickly they can undermine financial performance. If you are contemplating a business marriage, the list of best practices presented will help you avoid becoming "hitched" to the wrong partner.