“Merger” is the first regular Series 2 episode after the branch merger in The Office (UK).
It is Episode 7 overall and opens the second series after the organizational changes set up at the end of Series 1. Neil Godwin and several employees from the Swindon branch arrive at Slough, with Neil taking over as David Brent’s superior after Jennifer Taylor-Clarke’s promotion.
The episode explores the practical and social consequences of combining the branches. Tim has become a senior sales clerk, but Gareth disputes Tim’s authority. David immediately dislikes Neil because the new manager is more competent, professional, and popular with the staff. The Swindon employees also expose how poorly David handles management and office relationships.
“The Merger” is often confused with the later Series 2 episodes “Appraisals,” “Party,” or “Interview.” Those episodes continue the series after the integration has already begun. In the episode order, “Merger” comes first, followed by “Appraisals,” making it the clear regular-episode answer.