These two large convenience store chains operated in direct competition for several decades.  Then they merged and the result was a huge upheaval for employees.  Because the cultures of each of the companies were different, we chose to work with the management to create a strategic change plan for the new organization.  The most important element of our strategy was holding mixed group sessions with employees from both the store chains to listen to their needs and suggestions.  We identified: what they didn’t want in this change, what they wanted in this change and how they would help to create this future.  It led to a powerful change leadership strategy and the impact was tremendous.  Within 3 months it was difficult to tell which employee worked for which of the original convenience stores because they were now working seamlessly towards a common goal.