Learning through international acquisitions: The process of knowledge acquisition in China

Abstract

Abstract and Key Results Research on the process of knowledge learning and absorption in acquisition context has emerged recently. Yet relatively less attention has been paid to the process of knowledge transfer and learning and its impact on successful acquisitions. This paper adopts a process perspective’ to investigate this issue. Based on four international acquisitions in China, it generates new theoretical propositions as well as practical managerial implications. Results reveal the types of knowledge acquired and how it is transferred and learnt to contribute to the success of international acquisitions. The knowledge acquisition and learning process in international context involve three stages: knowledge assessment, knowledge sharing and knowledge assimilation. Foreign acquirers tend to acquire complementary knowledge from local targets, adopt dual management structure and facilitate communications with local personnel in order to achieve the success of acquisitions and future operations.