Nestle SA is the world's largest food company; its acquisition of RowntreePlc in 1988 was, at 2.5 billion British pounds, the largest ever foreign takeover of a British company. This case is the first in a three-part case series positioned before, during, and after the acquisition of Rowntree by Nestle and gives an inside look at a major international acquisition. Includes a note on the world chocolate industry and ends at the point when Nestle must decide whether to launch a hostile bid for Rowntree. Written from Nestle's point of view, it provides the opportunity to consider the benefit of various acquisition possibilities in the industry. Also raises questions as to why Rowntree became a takeover target as well as Nestle's policy of not making hostile takeovers.

The second of a three-part series on the 2.5 billion British pounds takeover of Rowntree by Nestle in 1988. Nestle has launched a hostile bid for Rowntree; this case ends at a breaking point in the process and places us in the middle of a critical negotiation session of the most senior executives of the two companies. Written from Nestle's point of view, it raises questions regarding the takeover price and the potential post-acquisition integration and organization structure.

The third of a three-part case series on the 2.5 billion British pounds takeover of Rowntree by Nestle in 1988. Nestle has acquired Rowntree; this final case raises issues about the post-acquisition integration of Rowntree and Nestle. This case setting is six months after the acquisition and is written from the point of view of the former senior Rowntree manager charged with integrating the Rowntree and Nestle chocolate businesses in Europe.