Operating synergy and post-acquisition integration in corporate acquisitions: A resource reconfiguration perspective

And so, I think we believe that what's important for us to do in this integration, is to get to work on our cost [sic.],get our cost down and move aggressively to finish all of this major restructuring work that we have so that we'll be able to compete effectively in what is a competitive bread category."-Daniel Servitje, Chairman & CEO, Bimbo Bakeries USA, discussing the integration plan for the Sara Lee Bakeries USA acquisition (Bimbo Bakeries, 2014)."We'll look for ways to help the Blue Buffalo team nurture and grow this modern, authentic 21st century brand, and we'll stay out of their way where they don't need us.We'll help them on the sales side where we can -our industryleading retail sales force, partnerships and marketing capabilities will help increase the likelihood of success of their expansion."-Jeffrey Harmening, Chairman & CEO, General Mills Inc., introducing the integration plan for the Blue Buffalo Pet Products acquisition (General Mills, 2018).