“并购之王”丹纳赫是如何“养成”的？

Core Insights - Danaher Corporation has successfully completed nearly 400 acquisitions over 40 years, spending approximately $90 billion, resulting in a market capitalization of about $200 billion and creating around $250 billion in shareholder value [2][4]. Acquisition Strategy - The company has a high frequency of acquisitions, averaging over 10 per year, with a peak of 19 in one year, and has never had a year without acquisitions [4]. - Danaher boasts a high success rate in acquisitions, with most large transactions being very successful, particularly in sectors like environmental instruments and life sciences [4]. - The company has diversified across various industries, transitioning from low-end manufacturing to advanced life sciences and diagnostics [4]. Evolution of Acquisition Style - In the 1980s, Danaher focused on high leverage and significant asset restructuring, later shifting to a strategy of seeking innovative, low-cost products and decentralized management [6]. - Under the leadership of CEO Kalp, a core team was established, leading to a more scientific and structured acquisition process, integrating the Danaher Business System (DBS) into acquisition management [7][8]. Recent Trends - Since 2016, Danaher has focused on divesting non-core businesses and concentrating on life sciences and medical diagnostics, with over 95% of acquisition funds directed towards these sectors [11][12]. - The company has shifted to larger but fewer acquisitions, with an average of 7.4 acquisitions per year from 2015 to 2023, compared to 14 per year previously, while the average deal size has increased significantly [12][13]. Platform Strategy - Danaher has established strategic platforms in various sectors, including water quality, testing and measurement, and life sciences, using a foundational asset to build and expand through subsequent acquisitions [16][42]. - The water quality platform has been particularly successful, achieving $2.9 billion in revenue by 2022, with a return on invested capital (ROIC) exceeding 20% [21]. Financial Performance - The life sciences platform has become a significant contributor to Danaher's revenue, with a valuation estimated at no less than $70 billion, driven by successful acquisitions and operational improvements [38][41].