There can be little doubt that acquisitions are a precarious business. Some acquisitions are disasters and can seriously damage the buyer; others transform companies and increase profits dramatically. The appeal is obvious, and yet current research shows that at least half of all acquisitions fail to meet expectations. So, what are the criteria for assessing the potential of a takeover/merger/alliance/partnership and what are the factors involved which determine its success or failure? This practical guide takes you through each of the essential steps of the acquisition process, pointing out all the major danger points where good intentions can lead to disaster. It is backed by Europe's most comprehensive study into acquisition success or failure. Based on over 350 transactions, the study has been conducted by AMR, Europe's leading specialist in commercial due diligence. Checklists provide readily accessible information summarising the essential steps in the main stages of the acquisition process. Concise case studies are used to draw out important lessons in each of the major areas which determine success or failure.

The practical nature of this guide makes it particularly accessible and useful for senior managers and executives involved in acquisitions who want to grow their businesses profitably and create wealth for their shareholders, as well as advisers specialising in mergers and acquisitions.