Bob: re: FSTW has said it's plan is to grow through acquisitions. If ACCPAC is shopping in the same market, FSTW's going to have a tough time striking any good deals
I don't think FSTW's plan is to acquire competitive CRM companies. At least I hope it's not.
Instead, I expect them to hunt for small companies that provide products and services that complement FSTW's rather skimpy market basket. They could do that through an acquisition or through simple alliances. I won't delve into their history in those particular categories, but let's just say their track record is splotchy at best.
Let's just assume for a minute that CA/ACCPAC and FSTW do stumble across the same acquisition candidate (unlikely, in my opinion, but ...).
If you were a small business owner, struggling to survive, and had the choice to join the ranks of CA/ACCPAC or the ranks of FSTW, which would you choose?
The answer to that question is really not as black and white as it might first appear. CA/ACCPAC stability vs FSTW potential growth. In option one, your employees survive, but any significant growth is stunted. In option two, you're risking everything on an 8 year old company that hasn't exactly lit the world on fire. But, if it works well and the combined companies grow significantly, you succeed beyond your wildest dreams.
That kind of decision is what makes the difference between successful business people and also-rans. The sad fact of the matter is that the majority of the risk takers end up with nothing. That's life in the fast lane.
Regards,
TED |
