Mergers, Acquisitions and Takeovers Case Study

Ahold Merger and Acquisition Strategy : Cees Van Der Hoeven's Approach

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Abstract:
Ahold, the largest food retailer in the Netherlands, under Cees van der Hoeven (Hoeven) became the third largest food retailer in the world through acquisitions. Initially, Hoeven was prudent in his strategy by adhering to Ahold's six golden principles on acquisition. But as the company became bigger he over-promised investors and in order to deliver his promise, he overlooked the company's rules and implemented his acquisition strategy too swiftly. This ultimately led to many problems including that of integrating the various acquired entities to function as one organisation. Finally he, along with some of his key executives, were forced to resign when the problems at Ahold went public.

Pedagogical Objectives:

• To discuss the perils that companies might come across in trying to implement an acquisition strategy too swiftly.

Keywords : Ahold; Cees van der Hoeven; Mergers and acquisitions; Six golden rules of acquisitions;Mergers, Acquisitions, Alliances Case Study ; US Foodservice; Velox Retail Holdings; Disco Ahold International; Vendor allowances; Pierre Everaert; Anders Moberg; Giant food stores; Autonomous growth; US mass retailer of the year; Acquisition strategy; Albert Heijn.

Contents : 
Introduction
Cees Van Der Hoeven Takes Over
Ahold’s Six Golden Rules on Acquisition
Acquisitions Under Hoeven’s Leadership
Acquisitions and Partnerships
Hoeven Resigns and Anders Moberg Takes Over
Effect of the Acquisitions