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Big Fish, Little Fish: the route to successful M&A

In the final instalment of the CBI’s Big Fish Little Fish best practice guidance, we look at the routes to successful M&A through understanding people and managing process.

06 Jan 2022, 3 min read

Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) is powerful tool for innovation. As might be expected however, these activity levels dropped off dramatically in 2020 with the onset of the pandemic. But, recent figures show that businesses are now starting to place bets on new partnerships at a record rate.

Closing a deal, however, is only one step on the path to creating real value from a transaction. 

In the third practical mini-guide of the Big Fish Little Fish series discover actionable recommendations to inform your approach to acquisitions, and understand the potential challenges and concerns of future partners.

People and Process 

Businesses consulted as part of the CBI's roundtable discussion on M&A, said that getting M&A right was about two things: understanding people and managing process.

Businesses outlined several strategies they employ to help overcome the common issues that can derail a successful acquisition, and the people and process considerations that must be made by firms both large and small: 

  1. It’s never too early to think about integration: Focus on the cultural compatibility of the companies involved during the early stages 
  2. Mind the detail: Look beyond grand visions. Integration should be built on a strong financial, legal and operational understanding 
  3. Review and adapt: This process is risky. Ensure Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are agreed, and then make sure partners are working together to respond effectively to new challenges.  

Improving partnerships between large and small firms is part of CBI’s desire to create a dynamic, competitive, future focused economy. This will be driven by innovation and will support the UK's prosperity over the coming decade.  

The CBI set out its vision for how this will be achieved in Seize the Moment, empowering business to be at the forefront of positive change.  

What's next?

Read the next installments in the Big Fish Little Fish mini-guide series.

Learn how your business can use innovation catalysts to overcome culture clash.

Learn how your business can remove old barriers to new ideas.

Delivered in partnership with Kainos   

At Kainos, innovation comes first. We reimagine how organisations operate, using the very latest technology and the curiosity, enthusiasm and talent of our incredible people to deliver game-changing results.   

Hear from Paul Batterham at Kainos on the benefits of innovation partnerships with startups such as loyalBe

What can you do?

Discover the routes to successful M&A here

Discover the routes to successful M&A here