Re: Packard in the media again

Posted by Jim On 2008/11/9 13:28:45

O_D
Though technically Studebaker was purchased by Packard, this union seemed to be functionally a merger. I am in no way any kind of expert in mergers, or in the finite details of the SP situation. From the little I know, the two management teams functioned very independently; and of course ultimately the survival of Studebaker giving the sense of a failed merger. I guess this boils down to interpretation of the functioning arrangement, and agreements between the two organizations.

I truly wonder had Packard used the cash from the acquisition of Studebaker for investment in its own wellbeing, would they be with us today. I also understand the ideology of two of the oldest marques combining forces to rise to the level and strength of larger competitors to try to survive in a changing auto industry. It is awfully easy to play armchair quarterback, but I can only imagine what Packard was faced with at the time.

I truly wonder if this present time will have parallels to the 1950's auto industry.