Financial buyers have snatched up companies big and small with the goal of growing and later selling in hopes of a high return on investment. Here's a look at two deals:

WESCO Distribution (electrical)

Who: Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, New York

When: February 1994

The Details: WESCO was the electrical products distribution unit of Westinghouse Electric. According to CD& R, WESCO was losing money, sales and employees as part of Westinghouse. CD& R acquired the captive unit from Westinghouse for $330 million.

Attractive ...