Provided herein are processes for synthesizing Mcl-1 inhibitors and intermediates such as compound Z that can be used to prepare them. In particular, provided herein are processes for synthesizing compound A1, and salts or solvates thereof and compound A2, and salts and solvates thereof. ##STR00001##

Provided herein are processes for synthesizing Mcl-1 inhibitors and intermediates such as compound Z that can be used to prepare them. In particular, provided herein are processes for synthesizing compound A1, and salts or solvates thereof and compound A2, and salts and solvates thereof. ##STR00001##