This is one of the positively "Tony Hsieh" lines that is most memorable in the out-of-the-blue news that hit today that Amazon acquired Zappos. In his email to employees, Tony said:
"Over the next few days, you will probably read headlines that say "Amazon acquires Zappos" or "Zappos sells to Amazon". While those headlines are technically correct, they don't really properly convey the spirit of the transaction. (I personally would prefer the headline "Zappos and Amazon sitting in a tree–")"


As Tony explained to employees, this is a stock transfer deal. But what's most important is the deal behind the deal; which is that Zappos remains who they are. They become better at the blocking and tackling and operational aspects of high volume pick, pack, ship operations, especially as they expand into product lines well beyond shoes. But the core values and the zaniness of Zappos will remain.
Glad to hear it. On this point I stick my neck out to say that I believe in both of these companies' commitment. Here's why:

1. They both began with a passionate focus on customers.


2. They both still have leaders on board who think, drink, eat customer happiness.


3. Bezos knows that messing with what Zappos has achieved in terms of emotional bonds with customers and employees is what they are buying. This is the currency of the brand. He knows not to mess with that. (check out the Bezos' video)


4. Amazon saw a kindred spirit and asked it to bond with them. Tony characterizes it closer to a marriage/romance with his line above.


5. Congruence of values will be an important compass in steering decisions.