Oh, the Humanity of Acquisitions

Keith Walters, president and CEO of Ennis, Midlothian, Texas, explained that company owners usually will have approached Ennis about being acquired. “We have been approached by some companies where, for one or more of many possible reasons, we choose not to engage in discussions. The potential acquisition must meet certain financial standards for us to consider the opportunity.” The employees of the acquired company are, understandably, very nervous. “The first thing they ask is whether or not they will be able to keep their jobs,” said Steven Osterloh, director of marketing. “The desired scenario is for the employees to remain, but each acquisition is unique,” he said. Added Walters, “Most of the acquisitions over the last eight years have been individual facilities and haven’t had large support staffs.”