Northeast Ohio Deal Activity: Cultural Fit Matters

To successfully acquire a business, there are many challenges and obstacles that are required to complete the transaction. First, one needs to determine its acquisition rationale and criteria. Inorganic growth by way of strategic acquisition can make sense for a business for a variety of reasons, including access to new markets, product line diversification, expansion of production capabilities, geographical expansion and access to talent in both management and production.

Once the acquisition rationale has been determined, and the target identified, an experienced deal team is paramount to successfully navigating the complexities of the transaction to close the deal. In today’s environment, it’s getting even more complex. One of the most critical aspects of a successful transaction, which can sometimes be missed or overlooked, is cultural fit.

Cultural fit is a crucial aspect in any M&A transaction because it can significantly impact the success or failure of the deal. Cultural misalignment poses a risk to the success of the merger. Issues such as conflicting values, communication breakdowns and resistance to change can disrupt operations and lead to the failure of the M&A deal. There are several reasons cultural fit matters, but here are a few that can determine success or failure.

Employee morale and engagement. A harmonious cultural fit helps maintain employee morale during times of change. When employees see a seamless integration of cultures, they are more likely to feel secure, engaged and motivated.

Retention of key talent. Cultural alignment contributes to the retention of key talent. Employees who identify with the newly formed culture are more likely to stay with the organization, reducing the risk of losing valuable skills and experience.

Communication and collaboration. A shared cultural foundation fosters effective communication and collaboration. When employees understand and embrace a common set of values and norms, it becomes easier to work together toward common goals.

Reduction of resistance to change. M&A transactions inherently involve change, and employees may resist change if they feel their culture is being disregarded. Cultural fit minimizes resistance by incorporating aspects of both organizations, creating a more inclusive and accepting environment.

Productivity and efficiency. A cohesive culture can contribute to increased productivity and operational efficiency. When teams are aligned culturally, they are more likely to understand each other’s working styles and processes, leading to smoother operations.

Cultural fit matters in M&A transactions because it directly impacts the human aspect of the integration process. Organizations that prioritize cultural compatibility are better positioned to create a cohesive and high-performing merged entity, leading to long-term success and sustainable growth.

M&A Market Activity

Deal volume within the U.S. declined by 26.3 percent when comparing November 2023 to the same month in 2022. However, disclosed deal value within the U.S. expanded by 94.6 percent compared with the same month in 2022.

Deal volume within the Northeast Ohio M&A market remained consistent with the broader U.S. M&A market, as deal volume in November 2023 declined 40.7 percent when compared to November 2022. The Northeast Ohio region saw several noteworthy transactions for November 2023, which includes acquisitions by Dix & Eaton Inc., The Timken Co. and The J.M. Smucker Co.

Deal of the Month

The J.M. Smucker Co., a global leader in manufacturing food and beverage products, completed the acquisition of Hostess Brands, a leader in the sweet snacks and baked goods industry. The combination of these two recognizable, reputable brands will increase Smucker’s position in this highly attractive segment of the market.

Mark Smucker, chair of the board, president and CEO of Smucker, says, “The synergy of our businesses creates a compelling platform to drive sustainable growth. Hostess offers an expanded distribution model, including strength in the convenience store channel, a robust innovation engine and extensive manufacturing capabilities.”

Al Melchiorre is president and CEO of MelCap Partners LLC, a middle-market investment banking advisory firm. For more information on MelCap Partners, visit www.melcap.com or email al@melcap.com.

Originally published December 28, 2023