Xerox in Crisis

matt hogan matt.hogan at lycos.com
Tue Dec 5 11:58:18 PST 2000


"What will happen to Xerox?" is a question on everbody's minds here in Rochester, New York.

In a city that has experienced more than it's share of economic woes over the last twenty years--from the downsizing of Kodak to the troubles besetting Bausch and Lomb and the Genesee Beer Co., not to mention a stagnating population and the decline of the metro area, Rochester may be headed for total third worldization if Xerox becomes plant food.

But maybe I'm being too ghoulish. After all, Xerox is a very well-known brand name. Perhaps, like other companies--Xerox may be able to turn itself around and become profitable again.

There a three scenerios that could make that reality:

First, Xerox could sell its assets--which total $9 billion. For e.x., Xerox could sell its 50% stake in Fuji Xerox Ltd., worth $3billion. There is also parts of its Palto Alto Research Center, worth $1 billion.

Second, Xerox could be purchased from a rival. However, antitrust challenges could develop if rivals get devious.

Third, a buyout from a financial house is a possibility. However, Xerox' cash flow stinks. In spades.

Maybe a combination of the three scenerios depicted above will take place. Whatever happens, manufacturing operations here in Rochester are likely to be seriously affected.

Whatever happened to the good old days?

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