Why 70% of Mergers Fail — And How to Be the 30%

The difference between successful and failed mergers almost always comes down to integration execution, not deal strategy.

The statistic is well-known: roughly 70% of mergers fail to deliver their promised value. But the reason is misunderstood. Most failed mergers had sound strategic logic. The deal thesis was right. What went wrong was integration. Specifically: cultural collision, technology integration delays, customer attrition during transition, and talent flight. The companies that succeed at M&A treat integration as a discipline — with dedicated leadership, clear decision rights, and relentless focus on the 90-day windows where value is made or lost.

At Meridian, we see these patterns across industries. The specifics vary, but the underlying dynamics are remarkably consistent. Organizations that succeed are the ones that treat transformation as a management discipline — with clear accountability, rigorous measurement, and the patience to see it through.

If you're facing a similar challenge, we'd welcome the conversation. Reach out to our team.