Abstract
ABSTRACT This article focuses on the acquisition of small pharmaceutical firms (SPHF) by large pharmaceutical firms (LPHF). LPHFs enlarge their own knowledge base by incorporating their target’s knowledge base. Given this scenario we pose the question: Is it possible to link knowledge acquired via an acquisition to technological development? In order to answer this question we developed an approach that allows the impact of a target’s knowledge base to be observed in the acquirer’s own knowledge base. This objective was achieved qualitatively, based on a sample of 8 LPHFs and 51 SPHFs. Our main conclusions were: (i) the dissemination of biotechnologies is boosted by acquisition; (ii) acquisitions have allowed the knowledge bases of LPHFs to assimilate their target’s knowledge bases; (iii) the target’s patents offer a great potential for developing technologies that are already dominated by the LPHF; and (iv) the “incorporation” of scientists from target companies allows LPHFs to internalize research lines. Our main contribution is to link knowledge base characteristics to potential directions taken in the technological development process.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
