In the law of corporations, a merger is effected when one or more corporations becomes a part of, or merges, with another corporation so that one ceases to exist and the other continues to exist. In a merger, the company that continues to exist retains its name and identity and acquires the assets, liabilities, franchises, and powers of the corporation that ceases to exist. Attorneys who practice in mergers and acquisitions (sometimes called M & A) represent corporations and other business entities in strategizing, negotiating, and carrying out transactions in which two or more companies or corporations combine into a single new entity, a merger, or where one business purchases and absorbs the assets of another, an acquisition.
Gilroy is the southernmost city in Santa Clara County, California, United States, and in the San Francisco Bay Area. The population was 41,464 at the 2000 census. Gilroy is well known for its garlic crop; the Gilroy Garlic Festival which occurs annually, featuring various garlicky foods including garlic ice cream. Gilroy also produces mushrooms in considerable quantity. Gilroy's nickname is "Garlic Capital of the World," although Gilroy does not lead the world in garlic production. While garlic is grown in Gilroy, its nickname comes from the fact that Gilroy Foods processes more garlic than any other factory in the world; most pickled, minced, and powdered garlic come from Gilroy. Approximately eight miles northeast of Gilroy, via Gilroy Hot Springs Road, lies the famous Victorian resort Gilroy Yamato Hot Springs, a California Historical Landmark. Gilroy also is home to the Gilroy Premium Outlets, a large shopping center consisting entirely of outlet stores. Long-time local landmarks include Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, formerly Treehaven, Hecker Pass... A Family Adventure, (a venue for corporate picnics and birthday parties). The park is located along California State Route 152 west of town. Past Gilroy Gardens on Highway 152 about twelve driving miles west of town is Mount Madonna County Park. Another large presence is the Gilroy Foods plant at 37°00′06″N 121°32′27″W / 37.00167°N 121.54083°W / 37.00167; -121.54083. Cattle, garlic, and strawberries, occupy acres toward Hollister and San Martin.