Ten Considerations for Effective Post Merger Communications

The most critical success factor in post merger integration is communications.

The key is for owners of print and graphic communications companies who are about to consummate a merger, acquistiion, joint venture, or other strategic transaction to anticipate the needs and wants of the major constituents: customers, creditors, and employees.

To help plan effective post-merger communications, here are Ten Considerations (issues/concerns) that should be weighed in developing "talking points" and outputs such as press releases and customer letters: 

1. Successor liability associated with "mergers" and certain acquisitions;
2. Customer receptiveness so as to minimize attrition related to the transaction;
3. Impact on employees who are likely to be nervous in the immediate aftermath of the announcement;
4. Suppliers who may fear being out in the cold on payment for old invoices;
5. Bank loan officers who seek to manage compliance and process;
6. Landlords who aren't happy about possibly having a vacancy;
7. Family members who feel a sense of loss now that the business is no longer independent;
8. Partners who need to be "on the same page" in facing questions on the fly during the critical 72 hours post closing
9. Union representatives who may not share the owners' enthusiasm for consolidation savings
10. Leasing company representatives who simply do not understand or care about the wonderful M&A transaction but simply want to confirm that the next months lease payment will be forthcoming

NAPL has a wealth of insight on all aspects of Post Merger Integration including Communications. Do not hesitate to contact me for examples, insights, and advice so that you are more likely to succeed in your critical M&A endeavor.