Prologue
A few days had passed since we fended off Suminoe’s indirect acquisition attempt.
“Tomonari-san, thank you so much for the ad placement the other day.”
“Oh, no, thank you for signing the contract.”
During a break, I’m chatting with a female classmate in the classroom about the Management Game.
The whole acquisition drama with Suminoe, as well as the subsequent capital and business alliance between Tomonari Gifts and Wedding Needs, had been covered multiple times in the Management Game’s news. As a result, my name recognition within the Academy had skyrocketed to a level that even surprised me.
Name recognition here translates directly to trust.
That’s why, using this acquisition fiasco as a springboard, I’d been able to steadily increase my business connections. Of course, I’d reach out to potential partners myself, but more often than not, they were the ones approaching me now. The classmate I was just talking to, for instance, was the one who suggested placing an ad on Tomonari Gifts’ website.
Right now, it’s like a tailwind is blowing in my favor. You could even call it a bonus round. How much I can grow the company during this period will shape Tomonari Gifts’ future.
“Tomonari-kun, can I ask for your advice on something?”
“Advice? Sure, but…”
“The thing is, I’m having some trouble with a partner company right now…”
This time, a male classmate comes to me with a consultation.
(…I’ve been getting a lot of these requests lately.)
While offering my own take on the matter, I can’t help but give a wry smile inwardly.
Maybe because I managed to fend off Suminoe’s acquisition, people seem to think I’m some kind of expert on M&A or business alliances. But honestly, compared to Hinako or Tennouji-san, I’m worlds apart, so every time someone asks for advice, it leaves me with mixed feelings. …I’m still learning myself, you know.
After sharing my thoughts, the male student politely thanks me and returns to his seat.
The chime rings, and class begins.
…Come to think of it, today’s the usual tea party, isn’t it?
