Spin-Offs: Analysis of a Set of Situations in Light of Mintzberg´S 5 P´S Model (1987)

Abstract

Literature often discusses matters concerning mergers and acquisitions. On the other hand, from an academic standpoint, spin-offs dwell in limbo as a poorly explored subject matter. Nevertheless, spin-off operations are a commonplace and serve multiple purposes including operational, legal, tax, litigation, and market amongst other, aspects. Ground on this perspective, this study sought to analyse the motivations driving a considerable number of spin-off operations – 60 in all – selected as of the 1930´s yet placing greater emphasis on those that took place as of 1990. Secondary data was researched, categorized and analysed by the author in light of Mintzberg’s 5 P´s model (1987), namely: a) plan – in the sense defining a future course of action; b) ploy, or maneuver to outsmart competition under given circumstances; c) position – in the sense of the patterns, standing and scope conquered within a given market; d) the company´s perspective when facing the market; e) pretext – a move or maneuver to face competition. Findings revealed that most spin-offs do fit, in descending order, into pretext, plan, position, pattern and finally, perspective frameworks.