M&A Ready Website: Digital Design Tips for Mergers
When two organisations decide to merge, the spotlight usually falls on the obvious bits — contracts, governance, announcements. But often the thing most overlooked is your website.
And that’s a problem. Because for most people on the outside — donors, stakeholders, supporters — it’s the first thing they’ll check. When you’re navigating a corporate M&A, your website is what tells the story. Or at least, it should.
So while you’re working out the finer details behind the scenes, here’s how to make sure your online presence doesn’t end up out of step.
Say It Up Front
You don’t need a splashy homepage redesign. But if someone lands on your site and has no idea a merger is happening, you’re missing a trick.
Add a small banner or note in plain sight. A line like:
“We’re in the process of merging with [Org B]. Read more about the changes.”
Even if you’re still finalising details, saying something shows openness — and that counts. Want to check how this appears officially? Companies House keeps updated records.
Set Up a Simple “Merger Info” Page
This page doesn’t need bells and whistles. It just needs to exist.
It should cover:
- What the merger means
- Any changes coming up
- Key dates (if known)
- A direct contact email
That’s it. Keep it friendly and link to it clearly from your homepage or menu.
Watch the Wording
Now’s not the time for corporate spin.
Instead of:
“We are undergoing a transformative realignment of strategic resources…”
Say:
“We’re coming together with another organisation to work more effectively.”
It’s about tone. Be honest, keep it grounded.
Honour the Old Identity (If One’s Going)
If one of the orgs is phasing out its name, don’t pretend it didn’t exist. Create a page — or even a short paragraph — celebrating its legacy. Archive reports, add a logo, maybe a couple of photos from past events.
It shows respect. It helps long-time supporters feel included in the change.
Check Your Contact Info
This one often slips through the cracks. During a merger, who people should reach out to isn’t always obvious.
If both sides still have separate inboxes, list them. Or use a joint email temporarily and explain who’s checking it.
A line like:
“During the transition, reach us at [EMAIL] — we’ll make sure it gets to the right person.”
Goes a long way.
Branding? Ease Into It
Merging doesn’t have to mean a full rebrand right away. Keep both logos visible. Maybe add a “formerly known as…” line under your banner. Choose one set of colours and stick with it.
Just avoid the trap of half-updated visuals — they look sloppy, even if your process behind the scenes is rock solid.
Add a Quick FAQ
You’ve probably been answering the same few questions already:
- “Will services change?”
- “Is this going to affect donations?”
- “Are you still based locally?”
Put them on the site. Keep it short. Link it from the homepage and make it easy to update later.
Say Something About Jobs
Even if you don’t have a clear hiring plan, say something.
A short note like:
“We’re reviewing recruitment as part of our merger. Please check back in a few weeks.”
That’s better than leaving a stale job board up — or worse, advertising roles that no longer exist.
Fix the Broken Bits
If you’re sunsetting one website, make sure it doesn’t leave people stranded.
Use redirects for key pages — especially donation, contact, and service info. If you need help setting those up, the GOV.UK digital manual has a straightforward guide.
Keep It Moving (Even Slowly)
People don’t expect daily updates. But one line a month on your news page — or even just a revised contact line — makes a difference.
It shows someone’s still tending the shop. And that helps people trust that you’re handling the process with care.
Final Thoughts
Mergers don’t need to feel chaotic from the outside. Your website is a chance to offer calm, structure, and clarity — even if things behind the scenes are still shifting.
You don’t need a full rebrand or web rebuild. Just a few honest pages, working links, and a sense that someone’s keeping things current.
Because when your online presence reflects what’s really happening, people notice. And they appreciate it.
Please be advised this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a trained legal or business professional. Please seek the advice of a legal or business professional if you’re facing issues regarding mergers and acquisitions.
