Something that should be added to that observation

Something that should be added to that observation is that big companies will take notice of the rate of growth of a brand, and the smart ones will realize what that implies as far as the popularity of the brand by those who try it. If that rate of growth appears to confirm explosive appeal, then they'll surely know what the potential could be once they've provided the brand with deep pockets. I for one, would rather see it take a while since early buyout offers just aren't likely to be as big as the brand's potential down the road a bit. If they fully "absorb" the company and the stock is bought and retired, then you make what you make and move on. Once big enough, however, a bidding war for the bigger company you referred to will drive the pps way upward in most cases.