Individual-level outcomes in poorly managed cross-border mergers and acquisitions: A holistic view of the relevant processes

Abstract

We explore the processes that lead to undesirable individual-level outcomes in crossborder mergers and acquisitions (M&As). Based on the empirical findings from an in-depth longitudinal case study that describes the unsuccessful integrative efforts between a German multinational company and an Austrian service provider, we develop a generic model that describes a holistic view of the processes and its relevant associated dynamics. These processes raise the awareness of aspects that significantly impact the integration process, but whose dynamics have not been linked. Our model provides an explanation of why traditional attempts to integrate mostly meet with failure.