Title: Continuity and change in alliances, joint ventures, and mergers and acquisitions: a matter of cooperation or domination?

Authors: Frits Grotenhuis, Pieter Kamminga

Addresses: Van Nijenrodeweg 32, 1083 EB Amsterdam, The Netherlands. ' University of Groningen, Faculty of Management and Organization, Landleven 5, P.O. Box 800, 9700 AV Groningen, The Netherlands

Abstract: This paper discusses the dynamics of alliances, joint ventures, and mergers and acquisitions. Where many scientists solely focus on mergers, or joint ventures, or alliances, this article enhances an integral approach to the dynamics among the different types of partnerships, and how these can evolve. The impact of changes in motives and bargaining power for collaborative enterprises are illustrated with the help of two case studies regarding entrepreneurial organisations, in order to ensure a thorough understanding of the |how and why| concerning the dynamics of collaborative enterprises. One case describes the development from an alliance situation into an acquisition. The other case reviews the dynamics in a joint venture relationship.

Keywords: motives; bargaining power; entrepreneurship; culture; alliances; joint ventures; mergers and acquisitions; collaborative enterprises; collaboration.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESB.2008.016591

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business, 2008 Vol.5 No.2, pp.170 - 178

Published online: 11 Jan 2008 *

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