Critical success factors in mergers and acquisitions: evidence from Slovenia

Abstract

The aim of this article is to investigate which critical success factors influence mergers and acquisitions. Although five hard success factors – a professional acquisition search and due diligence, a realistic assessment of added value potentials, the right mix of financial sources, a detailed post-acquisition integration plan – are found crucial to the M&A process, the five soft success factors – a new 'combined' organisational culture, a competent management team, innovative employees, efficient and consistent communication and creative business environment – are becoming increasingly relevant and need to be understood and managed if the deals are to be successful.