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Content 

Switzerland 

Introduction 

• Top Choice for Tourism, Business and Quality of 

Life 4 

• Switzerland at a Glance 6 

• Straightforward Business Environment with 

Investment Appeal 8 

Canton of Berne 

• Sustainable Development for Canton of Berne 11 

• Switzerland’s Capital Region 12 

• BEDA Supporting Berne’s Business Sector 14 

• Strong Financial Sector Driving Economy 15 

• Switzerland’s Capital Positions Itself as an Ideal 

Base for Business 16 

• BEKB | BCBE 17 

• Agriculture Sector Focussing on Sustainability 18 

• Camille Bloch 20 

• Clusters of Innovative Companies in Knowledge- 

Based Industries 22 

• CEMEX 24 

• State Councillor for Public Works, Transport and 

Energy Calls for Continued Investments 25 

• BKW FMB Energy 26 

• Energy Strategy Focuses on Renewables 28 

• One of Switzerland’s Top Three Cantons for 

Tourism 29 

• Hotel Bern 30 

Canton of Vaud 

• Innovation, Research, and High Quality of Life 33 

• Competence Clusters in Leading-Edge Industries 34 

• Eaton Corporation 36 

• Canton of Vaud: Home of the Lake Geneva 

Region 37 

• Château d’Ouchy 39 

• Lausanne Palace & Spa 40 

Canton of Geneva 

• Switzerland’s Most International Canton 42 

• International, Business Friendly, and Focussed 

on Innovation 44 

• Warm Welcome for Visitors 45 

• Hotel InterContinental 46 

Cantons of Basel 

• Basel Ranked Switzerland’s Fastest Growing 

Economy 49 

• Chamber of Commerce Helping to Bring 

Business to Basel 50 

• Global Capital of Life Sciences 51 

• Basel: Life Sciences Hub 52 

• Polyphor Ltd 54 

• Key Transport and Logistics Hub 55 

• Agility 57 

Canton of Zurich 

• Zurich Chamber of Commerce Confident about 

Canton’s Future 59 

• Switzerland’s Economic Powerhouse 60 

• Life Sciences Fastest Growing Economic Sector 62 

• Pfizer 64 

• Cutting-Edge ICT Sector Benefits from Local 

R&D 66 

• Microsoft 68 

• Leisure and Cultural Attractions Help Ensure 

High Quality of Life 69 

• Hotel zum Storchen 70 

• Apartments Swiss Star 72 

• Destination of Zurich 73 

Director: 

Lieve Luyten 

Regional Manager: 

Alina Shtutman 

Office Manager: 

Samira Darghal 

Senior Business Analyst: 

Michael Frisbie 

Regional Project Coordinator: 

Teryn Murray 

Project Coordinator: 

Devorgille Tshuma 

Production Coordinator: 

Katrien Henkens 

Design: 

Martine Vandervoort, Carine Thaens, 

Johny Verstegen, Walter Vranken, 

Dirk Van Bun 

The European Times 

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Phone: +44 (0)208 371 2356 

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www.european-times.com 

Pictures Courtesy of: 

Zürich Tourism; www.zuerich.com, www.sxc.hu, 

www.dreamstime.com 

The European Times is a trading name of United 

International Press Ltd 

This guide is protected by copyright. All rights 

reserved. This publication, or any part thereof, may 

not be reproduced, stored electronically or transmitted 

in any form, without the prior written permission 

of European Times. 

Every effort has been made to ensure information 

contained in this publication is correct and 

up-to-date. The authors and publisher accept no 

responsibility for any errors it may contain, or for 

any loss, financial or otherwise, sustained by any 

person using this publication. 

3

SWITZERLAND 

Sector 

Top Choice for Tourism, Business 

and Quality of Life 

City view of Zurich 

With its strategic location, great natural beauty, high 

quality of life and thriving economy, Switzerland is 

one of the world’s top choices as a tourism destination, 

business base and country of residence. 

One of Switzerland’s great attractions is its stability. 

The Swiss Confederation - the origin of today’s Switzerland 

- was founded in 1291, and in 1848 the country’s 

first constitution was signed, creating a centralised 

federal government. Switzerland has maintained its 

stability, sovereignty and neutrality for generations, 

even remaining neutral during the two World Wars. 

While Switzerland continues its commitment to 

neutrality and did not join the United Nations until 

2002, in recent years the country has strengthened its 

ties with its neighbours, keeping pace with Europe’s 

increasing political and economic integration. 

Switzerland’s role as a preferred location for the headquarters 

for many international organisations has enhanced 

its reputation as a base for globally active companies. 

Peaceful, prosperous and modern market 

economy 

Switzerland has developed a peaceful, prosperous, and 

modern market economy with low unemployment, a 

highly skilled labour force, and a per capita GDP that 

ranks among the highest in the world. With its small 

land area, strategic location and multicultural population, 

Switzerland has long focused on providing worldclass 

services. Today, the country’s economy is fuelled by 

its highly developed services sector, particularly financial 

services, and by a manufacturing sector which excels in 

high-technology, knowledge-based production. 

In recent years, Switzerland has been working on enhancing 

its international competitiveness. Given high labour costs, 

4

Stone bridge in Giornico 

it is focusing on high value added, 

knowledge-based activities and on 

bringing its economic practices in line 

with the EU. Switzerland has recently 

renegotiated its double taxation 

agreements with numerous countries, 

including the US, to incorporate 

OECD standards. 

The global financial crisis and 

resulting economic downturn put 

Switzerland into a recession in 2009, 

and to counter the crisis, the Swiss 

National Bank implemented a zero 

interest rate policy which helped to 

prevent appreciation of the Swiss 

franc, and the country’s largest bank 

was assisted by a government rescue 

package. This year, however, Switzerland’s 

economy is recovering and 

will probably experience modest 

GDP growth in 2010, spurred on by 

a third fiscal stimulus programme. 

Switzerland remains a global leader 

in international investments. Switzerland’s 

exposure to global markets is 

among the strongest of any country, 

and in 2007, the country’s total 

direct investments abroad reached 

€515.5 billion, or 145% of GDP. Swiss 

companies with direct investments 

abroad employ around 2.4 million 

staff in their foreign subsidiaries and 

operating units, and they are also 

important employers in Switzerland. 

Attractions for investors 

Switzerland continues to offer significant 

attractions for investors. 

According to the government’s Trade 

and Investment Promotion Agency 

(OSEC), “Switzerland is a communications 

and transport centre 

between northern and southern 

Europe where European cultures 

and languages overlap. No other 

country offers such great variety in so 

small an area. The Swiss economy’s 

high degree of development exists 

thanks to its liberal economic 

system, its political stability, and its 

close integration with the economies 

of other countries. The state creates 

the necessary framework and only 

intervenes when this serves the 

interests of society at large. Switzerland’s 

high-class education system 

and outstanding infrastructure form 

the basis for the competitiveness of 

the Swiss economy.” 

Free competition and trade and the 

protection of intellectual property 

are the cornerstones of economic 

success in today’s global economy 

and make Switzerland particularly 

attractive to both domestic 

and foreign companies. Efficiently 

organised administrative processes 

guarantee security for planning and 

day-to-day operations while progressive 

environmental laws promote 

sustainability. 

In addition, Switzerland is closely integrated 

into the European transport 

infrastructure system thanks to a 

dense network of road, rail and air 

connections. Frequent and reliable 

connections guarantee the smooth 

and efficient transport of passengers 

and goods, and the supply of energy, 

water, communications services and 

postal services is guaranteed at all 

times in Switzerland. As many have 

pointed out, in Switzerland, everything 

works smoothly. 

High quality of life 

Switzerland is especially known for 

its very high quality of life. A welldeveloped 

healthcare system ensures 

that the population has access to 

medical care without having to travel 

long distances, and the educational 

system is ranked one of the best in 

the world. Switzerland’s multiculturalism 

– the country has four official 

languages – and its location in the 

heart of Europe add to its attractions 

and make it easy for companies 

in Switzerland to attract the highest 

quality human resources. 

For investors looking to set up a 

company in Switzerland, numerous 

official and private organisations 

provide assistance, and the federal 

government’s various websites offer 

a wide range of information on all 

aspects of the company formation 

process – from business plan to 

official registration. 

All investors and residents can 

benefit from Switzerland’s international 

reputation for high quality in 

every sphere of life. 

5

SWITZERLAND 

Switzerland at a Glance 

ethnic divisions among 

Swiss nationals only: German 74%, French 20%, Italian 4%, 

Romansh 1%, other 1% 

religions: 

Climate: 

Terrain: 

Roman Catholic 47.6%, Protestant 

44.3%, other 8.1% 

Temperate, but varies with altitude; 

cold, cloudy, rainy/snowy winters; cool 

to warm, cloudy, humid summers with 

occasional showers 

mostly mountainous (Alps in south, Jura 

in northwest) with a central plateau of 

rolling hills, plains, and large lakes 

official name in english: Swiss Confederation, abbreviated CH 

name in local languages: Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft 

(German); Confédération Suisse 

(French); Confederazione Svizzera 

(Italian); Confederaziun Svizra 

(Romansh); Swiss Confederation 

(English) 

Short forms of name: 

Capital: 

Currency: 

Schweiz (German); Suisse (French); 

Svizzera (Italian); Svizra (Romansh); 


Bern (Berne) 

Swiss franc (CHF) 

Geography: Landlocked; set on crossroads of northern and 

southern Europe; along with south 

eastern France, northern Italy, and 

south western Austria, has the highest 

elevations in the Alps 

elevation extremes: lowest point Lake Maggiore 195 m; 

highest point Dufourspitze 4,634 m 

natural resources: 

Land use: 

hydropower potential, timber, salt 

arable land 9.91%, permanent crops 

0.58%, other 89.51% (2005) 

Total renewable water 

resources: 53.3 cu km (2005) 

UneSCo World Heritage 

sites: 

10, both natural and cultural 

Location: 

Central Europe 

Government type: 

Confederation 

Time zone: 

GMT+1 

Telephone dialling country code: 41 

Internet country code: 

.ch 

neighbouring countries: Germany (north of Switzerland, 

boundary 363 km); Austria (east, 

boundary 165 km); Liechtenstein 

(east, boundary 41 km); Italy (south, 

boundary 741 km); France (west, 

boundary 572 km) 

Chief of state: President Doris Leuthard (since 1 

January 2010); Vice President Moritz 

Leuenberger (since 1 January 2010). 

The president is both the chief of state 

and head of government representing 

the Federal Council. 

Cabinet: 

Federal Council or Bundesrat (in 

German), Conseil Federal (in French), 

Consiglio Federale (in Italian) elected 

by the Federal Assembly usually from 

among its members for a four-year term 

Land area: 

national holiday: 

Independence: 1648 

official Languages: 

Population: 

ethnic divisions 

in total population: 

41,285 km² 

1 August 1291 (founding of the Swiss 

Confederation) 

German, French, Italian, Romansh 

7.7 million (2009 estimate) 

German 65%, French 18%, Italian 

10%, Romansh 1%, other 6% 

elections: 

Legislative branch: 

President and Vice President elected 

by the Federal Assembly from among 

the members of the Federal Council 

for a one-year term (they may not serve 

consecutive terms); election last held 

on 2 December 2009 (next to be held 

in December 2010) 

The Federal Assembly (Bundesversammlung 

in German, Assemblée 

Fédérale in French, Assemblea 

Federale in Italian) consists of the 

Council of States and the National 

Council. 

6

Introduction 

Regional organisation 

(26 cantons): 

Zürich, Berne, Luzern (Lucerne),Uri, 

Schwyz, Unterwalden (Obwalden / 

Nidwalden), Glarus, Zug, Freiburg 

(Fribourg), Solothurn, Basel (Basel 

Stadt / Basel Land), Schaffhausen 

Appenzell (Appenzell Ausserrhoden / 

Appenzell Innerrhoden), Sankt Gallen, 

Grisons (Graubünden), Aargau, 

Thurgau, Ticino, Vaud, Valais (Wallis), 

Neuchâtel, Geneva, Jura 

Agricultural products: 

Top industries: 

Trade 

Exports, total value: 

Exports, commodities: 

grains, fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs 

machinery, chemicals, watches, textiles, 

precision instruments, tourism, 

banking, and insurance 

€142.4 billion (2009 estimate) 

machinery, chemicals, metals, watches, 

agricultural products 

Six of the 26 cantons are called “half 

cantons” because they elect only one 

member of the Council of States 

and, in popular referendums where 

a majority of popular votes and a 

majority of cantonal votes are required, 

these six cantons only have a half vote. 

The six half cantons are Appenzell 

Ausser-Rhoden, Appenzell Inner- 

Rhoden, Basel-Landschaft, Basel-Stadt, 

Nidwalden, and Obwalden. 

Exports, partners: Germany 19.7%, US 9.6%, Italy 8.7%, 

France 8.6%, UK 5.2% (2008) 

Imports, total value: 

Imports, commodities: 

Imports, partners: 

€132.8 billion (2009 estimate) 

machinery, chemicals, vehicles, metals; 

agricultural products, textiles 

Germany 33.3%, Italy 11%, France 

9.4%, US 5.8%, Netherlands 4.5% 

(2008) 

Judicial branch: 

Economy 

Federal Supreme Court (judges elected 

for six-year terms by the Federal 

Assembly) 

Innovation: 

Switzerland places great emphasis on 

innovation, and the national Innovation 

Promotion Agency (CTI) supports 

around 300 projects per year. Its project 

budget for 2008 to 2011 totals €373.7 

million 

GDP (purchasing power parity): €236.8 billion (2009 estimate) 

GDP (official exchange rate): €362.8 billion (2009 estimate) 

GDP real growth rate: 

GDP per capita (PPP): 

-1.8% (2009 estimate) 

€30,700 (2009 estimate), ninth in the 

world 

GDP composition by sector: agriculture 1.5%, industry 34%, 

services 64.5% 

Labour force: 

4.08 million (2009 estimate) 

Labour force by occupation: agriculture 3.9%, industry 22.8%, 

services 73.2% 

Unemployment rate: 

3.7% (2009 estimate) 

Downtown Bern 

7

Straightforward Business 

SWITZERLAND 

Sector 

Environment with 

Investment Appeal 

Doing business in Switzerland is getting easier every 

day, especially for EU and international companies. The 

increasing use of the euro in Swiss business; cheap and 

easy travel, communications and Internet connections 

throughout Switzerland and between Switzerland and 

the EU and other markets; reliable energy supplies; and 

firm, predictable rules, often adapted to EU norms, 

have created a straightforward business environment in 

Switzerland. 

Opportunities in a wide range of sectors 

In addition, Switzerland offers opportunities in a 

wide range of sectors. Particularly successful business 

activities include financial services, pharmaceuticals 

and biotechnology, research and development, and 

luxury goods (including watch-making and precision 

engineering). Adding to its attractions, Switzerland 

- despite a relatively small population - has one of 

the world’s highest GDPs per capita and therefore an 

impressive purchasing power, making the country a top 

market for high quality goods. 

To maintain Switzerland’s strong business activities, the 

government encourages investment in research and 

development as well as in start ups and small and medium-sized 

enterprises. The government is also working 

hard to keep Switzerland globally competitive; the 

country was ranked number two in the world in competitiveness 

(after the US) in 2008 by the World Economic 

Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report. 

While maintaining its tradition of neutrality, Switzerland 

in recent years has been steadily strengthening 

its ties to the EU, thus adding to its investment appeal. 

Switzerland signed a landmark trade liberalisation 

agreement with the EU in 2002 and a second set of 

agreements in 2004 which came into force in 2005. 

One result of such trade agreements is that Switzerland 

is now the UK’s second biggest non EU export market 

after the US. Main exports from the UK to Switzerland 

8

Jacques de Watteville, Swiss Ambassador to the EU 

include chemicals and pharmaceuticals, 

metal and semi-finished metal 

products, food and drink, vehicles, 

office equipment, and telecommunications 

and sound recording 

equipment. 

Swiss ambassador to EU calls 

for long-term vision 

Jacques de Watteville, Swiss Ambassador 

to the EU, points out that while 

the EU Commission and the government 

of Switzerland have sometimes 

been at odds over taxation issues, 

“Switzerland is holding a good hand 

of cards. The EU recognises that our 

agreement on taxation on savings 

and the pay-as-you-earn system is 

working well. Switzerland returned 

almost €349.2 million to EU member 

states in 2008.” He adds, “The independent 

reform of the taxation of 

businesses that Switzerland envisages 

should contribute to maintaining a 

competitive and attractive economic 

area. We must be realistic and anticipate 

the developments to come. We 

must have a long-term vision.” 

Concerning bilateral trade agreements 

with the EU, Jacques de Watteville 

explains, “For the Union, 

if Switzerland wants to participate 

in certain sectors of the internal 

market, it must respect the rules, 

and therefore resume the application 

of current and future EU law. 

It is also in Switzerland’s interests to 

have unified rules. Otherwise, it will 

not have full access to the internal 

market. The challenge is to find 

mechanisms that allow us to achieve 

this goal while respecting the sovereignty 

and healthy functioning of 

Swiss institutions. We have to find 

a balance. For Switzerland, respecting 

our sovereignty and institutions 

is crucial, as it is elsewhere and also 

within the EU.” 

Attractions for investors 

Switzerland’s traditional strengths 

are advantageous to investors. 

Switzerland has no controls on 

exchange, inward investment, the 

repatriation of profits or capital on 

disinvestment, other than applicable 

taxes. In addition, the Swiss franc is 

fully backed and is one of the world’s 

strongest currencies; it appreciated 

300% against the US dollar between 

1974 and 2008, a factor which 

continues to encourage international 

investors to locate their assets 

in Switzerland. 

The Swiss authorities have a “laissez-faire” 

attitude towards investment, 

but the government does 

support infrastructural investment 

(tourist facilities, communications 

and training facilities) with subsidised 

loans up to 25% of a financing 

package. There are also a few traditional, 

mainly rural, industries in 

which the government offers even 

more financial support. 

Investment support at 

cantonal level 

At the cantonal level, a wide variety 

of investment supports is available. 

The cantons frequently compete vigorously 

to secure attractive projects, 

and the terms of incoming investment 

are negotiable in many cases. 

The types of support available include 

assistance or subsidies with land or 

premises, waiving of work permit 

requirements, tax holidays of up to 

10 years, cheap energy and training 

subsidies. Some cantons have designated 

industrial zones which provide 

some or all of these privileges. 

Although most cantons are open 

to foreign investment in principle, 

some in particular are more open 

than others. Freiburg, Grisons, 

Luzern, Schwyz, Unterwalden, Uri, 

Valais and Vaud, all of which are predominantly 

agricultural areas, are 

thought to be particularly keen on 

attracting inward investment. 

Anywhere in Switzerland, companies 

can count on highly skilled, multilingual 

human resources, high quality 

of life, and exceptional business 

support services. 

9

• Sustainable Development for Canton of Berne 

• Switzerland’s Capital Positions Itself as an Ideal Base for Business 

• Strong Financial Sector Driving Economy 

• State Councillor for Public Works, Transport and Energy Calls for Continued Investments 

• One of Switzerland’s Top Three Cantons for Tourism 


“Infrastructure is the lifeline of a 

modern society, and weaknesses 

in transport and energy 

infrastructures will, sooner or 

later, slow down economic growth” 

Barbara Egger-Jenzer, State Councillor for Public Works, Transport 

and Energy for the Canton of Berne


Sustainable Development for 


The State Council for Economy for 

the Canton of Berne, along with 

Switzerland’s federal government, is 

making sure the canton is well able 

to cope with the challenges of the 

global financial crisis. 

Andreas Rickenbacher, State Councillor 

for Economy for the canton of 

Berne, explains, “The federal government 

has enacted a ‘Debt Break 

Policy’ which essentially forces Switzerland 

to save money during times 

of booming industry, and then 

re-invest this surplus during times 

of recession. It has proven to be 

very effective. Our government still 

has not had to resort to corporate 

bail-outs like many of our neighbours 

and competitive markets, 

including the U.S.” 

The council’s role is to provide 

guidance to member industries 

in order to ensure sustainable 

economic development for the 

canton. The council oversees activities 

in the forestry, fisheries, agriculture, 

and tourism sectors, among 

others, and works to promote 

transfers of knowledge between 

local educational and research 

institutions and the local business 

and industrial sectors. 

‘Innovation Think Tank’ 

The ministry has launched a 

number of very successful programmes, 

including the ‘Innovation 

Think Tank’, which focuses 

on promoting intelligent innovation, 

and a ‘cluster’ development 

model targeting key sectors. “The 

Canton of Berne was the first to use 

such an innovative approach, and 

now companies in the medical technology, 

ICT, precision, energy, and 

environmental engineering sectors 

are growing at above-average rates,” 

Andreas Rickenbacher says. 

Andreas Rickenbacher concludes, 

“The ministry believes in offering 

guidance and positive incentives 

for industry growth.” Thanks to the 

ministry’s efforts, the Canton of 

Berne has developed a stable, high 

potential and innovative business 

environment. 

11

SWITZERLAND 

Canton of Berne: Switzerland’s 

Capital Region 

Bern (Berne) is not only Switzerland’s federal capital, 

but it is also one of the country’s most charming places 

to visit and live in as well as a dynamic business base 

and investment target. 

The canton recently launched the ‘Swiss Capital Region’ 

initiative, which will help make the world more aware 

of Berne’s significance in the Swiss economy. As the 

City of Bern’s Mayor, Alexander Tschappat, explained 

in a speech in March this year, “When we created the 

concept of the Swiss Capital Region, we wanted to 

focus on Bern’s own strengths, not to compete with 

Switzerland’s other metropolitan areas. We want to call 

attention to the key role the Berne region plays in Switzerland’s 

development.” The Canton of Berne recently 

joined forces with the Canton of Geneva to form the 

Greater Geneva-Berne Economic Area, and the Swiss 

Capital Region initiative aims to promote further cooperation 

with Switzerland’s other leading cantons. 

Proven expertise in cutting-edge 

technologies 

One of Berne’s strengths is leading-edge technology. 

The Biel-Seeland and Bernese Jura regions in the north 

of the canton are home to the international watchmaking 

industry and to leading brands like Rolex, 

Longines, Swatch and Rado. In addition, watchmaking 

know-how and technologies developed in Berne 

are now used in many other fields, including medical 

technology, information technology, the automotive 

industry, the engineering industry and the precision 

industry. The canton is also known for its expertise in 

the cutting-edge field of nanotechnology. 

The canton recently launched an Innovation Think 

Tank and follows a cluster approach designed to 

promote co-operation among innovative companies. 

As the Berne Economic Development Agency (BEDA) 

points out, “The Canton of Berne boasts a network of 

cluster organisations and centres of expertise which 

can assist investors with their projects, as well as universities 

open to partnering with the business sector.” 

Strategic location 

Berne is strategically located in the heart of Switzerland, 

and its superb infrastructure allows for easy connections 

throughout Switzerland, Europe and the world. Bern 

city has a small airport in the suburb of Belp, and direct 

rail service links Bern to Switzerland’s major cities and 

to Paris, Berlin, Barcelona and Milan. 

The Canton of Berne is one of Switzerland’s most international 

cantons, the source of highly skilled, multilingual 

human resources; Switzerland’s largest bilingual 

city, Biel-Bienne, is located in the canton. The official 

local languages are Swiss-German, High German, and 

French, while English is widely spoken. 

Switzerland’s capital 

As Switzerland’s capital city and the seat of the Swiss 

federal government, Bern is an ideal location for 

companies since they can enjoy close contacts with 

Switzerland’s leaders. Bern is home to Switzerland’s 

federal ministries, the National Bank, the Universal 

Postal Union, Swiss Post (the state-owned post office), 

the Swiss Federal Railways, embassies, and many other 

national and international organisations. 

High quality of life 

The Canton of Berne is attractive not only as an 

economic location, but also as a place to visit and live. 

A small city of 130,000 with winding cobblestone streets 

on a hillside within a curve of the Aare river, the city 

of Bern is one of Europe’s most beautiful and best 

preserved urban centres. Founded in the 12th century, 

the city of Bern has been designated a UNESCO World 

Cultural Heritage Site while the surrounding region 

of Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn is a UNESCO World 

Natural Heritage Site. 

In addition to its beauty, Bern offers a wide range of 

leisure and cultural attractions, including museums, 

concerts, theatres, open-air performances and 

international sports events. The ski resorts of the 

12


Bern 

Bernese Alps and the renowned lakes of the Bernese 

Oberland and the Biel-Seeland regions are less than 

an hour from the city of Bern by car. The nearby 

hills of the Jura are easily accessible for hiking and 

cross-country skiing, and renowned holiday destinations 

such as Grindelwald, Interlaken and Gstaad are 

also not far away. 

Outstanding educational institutions 

Berne has outstanding educational institutions which 

add to the canton’s high quality of life and to Berne’s 

appeal as a base for international companies. The International 

School of Berne is a day school which has been 

recognised by the CIS (Council of International Schools) 

and NEASC (New England Association of Schools and 

Colleges), where children and young people are taught 

in English according to an international syllabus. There 

are also schools which have French as their language of 

instruction. 

The Bern University of Applied Sciences (Berner Fachhochschule), 

the University of Bern and many private 

institutes of education and further education are a 

source for skilled human resources as well as offering 

partnership potential for innovative companies. The 

Canton of Berne is also home to numerous research 

and development institutes. 

Berne welcomes continued international investment 

and offers extensive services for start-up and established 

foreign enterprises. Most of all, Berne provides 

a winning combination of high quality of life, access to 

decision makers, and investment appeal. 

13

SWITZERLAND 

BEDA Supporting Berne’s Business Sector 

The Berne Economic Development Agency (BEDA), 

a section within the Canton of Berne’s Department of 

Economic Affairs, is the central, official contact for firms 

moving to, starting up or operating in the Canton of 

Berne. For new companies, BEDA offers support with 

incorporations and project management, ensuring that 

projects are implemented quickly and efficiently and with 

maximum benefit to the investor. 

Jean-Philippe Devaux, Head of Foreign Investments at 

BEDA explains, “Our aim is to market the Canton of 

Berne all over the world and to encourage foreign businesses 

to choose Bern as a location.” The Canton of 

Berne, with almost one million inhabitants, connects 

German-speaking and French-speaking Switzerland 

and is the country’s second largest canton. 

Wide range of services 

The main focus of BEDA’s activities is support for local 

companies, including the canton’s many dynamic 

small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). As the 

canton’s point of contact for businesses, BEDA offers 

a wide range of services oriented towards satisfying the 

demands of companies and investors. These services 

include support for existing, newly established and 

start-up companies anywhere in the canton. 

Services include consulting and advice, financial 

support, tax holidays, trade fair bonuses, access 

to a property data base, knowledge and technology 

transfer, help in finding and working with local 

partners, extensive support for start-ups, guarantees, 

contacts with other companies in the same or related 

clusters, and regional contacts through BEDA’s ties 

with chambers of commerce and industry. BEDA also 

serves as a liaison between companies and local and 

federal government officials. 

Focus on innovation 

In order to enhance sustainable economic development, 

BEDA markets the Canton of Berne abroad as a location 

for business (primarily in Germany, France and the US) 

in collaboration with the organisation ‘Location: Switzerland’. 

BEDA focuses on attracting investors in innovative 

knowledge-based sectors in which Berne has demonstrated 

a competitive edge. These include precision 

technology, telematics and information technology, 

medical technology, services, environmental technology 

and design. 

Berne offers a number of unbeatable attractions for 

investors and companies, including skilled multilingual 

personnel, high quality of life, an international atmosphere, 

excellent schools, many research and development 

centres, cutting-edge infrastructure, clusters of 

successful companies, and a strategic location in the 

heart of Europe. Jean-Philippe Devaux adds, “Manufacturers, 

suppliers, companies, schools, industry associations, 

research centres and other players in the Canton 

of Berne form networks or clusters which make for both 

competitiveness and fruitful cooperation here.” 

14

Swiss National Bank 

Strong Financial Sector Driving 

Economy 

Berne, location of one of the two head offices of the Swiss 

National Bank, is investing significantly in strengthening 

its financial services sector to enhance the Canton of 

Berne’s attractions as a base for business. 

One major project is a €1.65 million investment 

in upgrading the operations of BEKB/BCBE, the 

cantonal bank. Urs Gasche, President State Councillor 

for Finance for the Canton of Berne, explains, “The 

fact that Berne’s financial sector is so small has allowed 

us to protect it during the crisis. Our investment in 

the cantonal bank is aimed at increasing the attractiveness 

of the canton as a business base and helping 

local companies as well as ensuring customers of our 

support. The bank is now a very self-sufficient and vital 

motor of economic activities here in Berne.” 

Solid performance during crisis 

In fact, the canton’s budget for 2009 (totalling around €7 

billion) showed positive results at the end of the year, with 

around €119.6 million more than anticipated in spite of a 

reduction in tax revenues as a result of the financial crisis. 

Given these results, the canton’s Executive Council 

decided to devote some €70.4 million to secure 

future investments and €91.5 million to cover debt. 

The government is also taking steps to deal with 

the anticipated challenge of new laws on taxation 

and health insurance. Overall, the Canton of Berne 

achieved positive results from 2006 to 2009, managing 

to reduce its debt by €140.8 million per year. 

The Ministry of Finance has other projects in the works 

aimed at further stimulating the canton’s economic 

growth. These include significant improvements 

to the canton’s infrastructure. The rail network is 

being upgraded through a €65.8 million to €131.73 

million investment, while around €2.31 billion 

is being invested in upgrading the road network, 

including building a ring road around Bern’s city 

centre. Urs Gasche concludes, “We want to show 

the world what the Canton of Berne has to offer. We 

welcome foreign direct investment to help us fund 

our current projects and to add to the strength of 

our business sector. We are working to improve the 

city’s image worldwide by showing people that Bern 

is an exceptional place to live and work.” 

15

SWITZERLAND 


Switzerland’s Capital Positions 

Itself as an Ideal Base for Business 

The Canton of Berne has been focussing on building up 

its financial services sector as part of its drive to make 

the canton better known as an ideal base for business. 

One major initiative is an investment of €1.65 million 

to upgrade the operations of the Cantonal Bank. 

Urs Gasche, State Councillor for Finance for the 

Canton of Berne, explains, “Finance is not the most 

prominent sector in the Canton, and it has suffered 

in these current economic times, but the fact that it is 

so small has allowed us to protect and help this sector 

during the crisis. Our investment in the Cantonal Bank 

is aimed at increasing the attractiveness of the canton 

as a business base and helping local companies as well 

as ensuring customers of our support. The bank is now 

a very self-sufficient and vital motor of economic activities 

here in Berne.” 

Strategic location in the heart of Europe 

As a business location, Berne has it all: a very strategic 

location right in the heart of Europe, an international 

atmosphere with many foreign companies and residents 

from all over the world, a bilingual region where both 

German and French are spoken, exceptional quality of 

life, access to river transportation, a very lively cultural 

scene, and much more. In addition, the city is Switzerland’s 

capital, a key advantage for business services 

providers and companies working with the political 

sector. “People come here to do business but they also 

discover that Berne has a lot to offer as a place to live 

for individuals and families,” Urs Gasche says. 

Major infrastructure investments in progress 

The State Council for Finance has many projects in 

the works aimed at further stimulating the canton’s 

economic growth. These include significant improvements 

to the canton’s infrastructure. The rail network 

is being upgraded through a €65.8 million to €131.73 

million investment, while around €2.31 billion is being 

Urs Gasche, State Councillor for Finance for the Canton of Berne 

invested in upgrading the road network, including 

building a ring road around Bern’s city centre. Urs 

Gasche concludes, “We want to show the world what 

the Canton of Berne has to offer. We welcome foreign 

direct investment to help us fund our current projects 

and to add to the strength of our business sector. We 

are working to improve the city’s image worldwide by 

showing people that Bern is an exceptional place to live 

and work.” 

16


BEKB | BCBE 

Creating Value with a Long-Term 

Strategy 

BEKB | BCBE now serves over 500,000 customers and 

has developed an extensive network of 78 branches, 

17 mobile banks and an online banking service. 

Operating mainly in the Canton of Berne, where its 

market share is around 25%, the bank specialises 

in two core activities: providing retail banking 

services for individuals and small and medium-sized 

companies, and private and asset banking services 

for individuals and institutional clients. 

Personal service is the bank’s focus. “We aim to 

be as close to our clients as possible. Through our 

numerous subsidiaries and cyber bank, we effectively 

bring our services to the customer,” says Jean-Claude 

Nobili, CEO. He adds that the bank also emphasises 

long-term strategies, aiming to earn returns over a 10- 

year period. The bank makes sure its customers are 

aware that 50% of the achieved free cash flow goes 

to its shareholders with the rest used to develop the 

bank. 

Employees have a stake in the business 

BEKB | BCBE was formerly fully owned by the 

canton, but now it has more than 60,000 shareholders, 

placing it among Switzerland’s top 10 companies 

in shareholder numbers. In 1999, the bank began 

to allocate its shares to private investors in order to 

gain autonomy and boost efficiency. This was a major 

innovation at the time which was wholeheartedly 

supported by the Bernese population, the parliament, 

the government and the Ministry of Finance. 

Employees own around 5% of the bank, a unique 

feature of which BEKB | BCBE is very proud. “Their 

ownership ensures that our employees are working 

hard towards the success of the bank and that they 

feel part of the company they are working for,” Jean- 

Claude Nobili explains. The bank also grants significant 

autonomy to branch managers since they best 

understand the needs of their local market. 

The bank’s services include mortgage financing, 

handling customer deposits, asset management and 

property advisory. BEKB | BCBE sets itself apart from 

its competitors through its focus on providing personalised 

attention (every customer has a personal advisor 

or advisory team), its efforts to ensure easy access to 

the bank for all its customers, and its reliability. Jean- 

Claude Nobili concludes, “We create value through 

open, transparent communications with our customers, 

through a limited and long-term compensation model 

and a long-term qualitative orientation of our business 

policy, which is a low-risk strategy.” 

Bundesplatz 8, 3001 Bern 


Phone: +41 (0)31 666 10 13 

Fax: +41 (0)31 666 19 91 

hanspeter.merz@bekb.ch 

www.bekb.ch 

17

SWITZERLAND 

Agriculture Sector Focussing on 

Sustainability 

With some 12,000 agricultural 

enterprises, the Canton of Berne has 

the fifth largest agricultural sector 

of any Swiss canton. Overseen by 

the cantonal Office of Agriculture 

and Nature (OAN), the Canton of 

Berne’s agriculture sector is currently 

working to boost its competitiveness 

while also ensuring environmental 

sustainability and the use 

of renewable energies, particularly 

biomass. The Canton of Berne’s 

agriculture sector offers a number of 

attractions for investors. 

Cattle, cheese, wine 

The Canton of Berne has agricultural 

enterprises (most of them 

small farms) operating in all the 

canton’s types of agricultural land: 

on the plains, in foothills and in 

the mountains, with the Mittelland 

area particularly known for its fertile 

arable land. The Canton of Berne 

has earned a global reputation for 

cattle raising and for the production 

of cheese, particularly Emmental, 

and for the wines produced in the 

Lake Biel area. As Switzerland’s 

second largest canton, the Canton 

of Berne is also a major market for 

agricultural products. 

The quality of the canton’s agricultural 

products is strictly controlled 

by the Public Health and 

Social Services office of the Canton 

of Berne (SAP), which has its own 

laboratory for testing products and 

works in partnership with federal 

public health and veterinary inspection 

services. 

The OAN assists the canton’s agricultural 

enterprises by providing 

direct financial support, assistance 

in improving production, support 

for environmental protection 

measures, veterinary assistance, and 

training. OAN’s overall goal is to 

enhance the competitiveness of the 

canton’s agriculture sector and to 

ensure its long-term sustainability 

while preserving the rural environment 

and local flora and fauna. 

Promoting the use of 

renewable energies 

In 2006, the Canton of Berne 

and OAN launched an ambitious 

programme to promote the use of 

renewable energies. The canton has 

significant biomass reserves in the 

form of wood, agricultural waste 

products, organic industrial waste 

products, and waste from households 

and water purification plants. 

According to the OAN, if used 

properly, local sources of biomass 

could satisfy 8% of the canton’s 

overall energy needs by 2035, 

including 10% of its electricity and 

heating and 5% of its fuel needs. 

To achieve this goal, the canton will 

need to build new biomass installations, 

upgrade existing installations, 

and upgrade biomass systems overall. 

18


The canton’s policy is to upgrade 

biomass energy installations so that 

they will not only produce electricity 

but also useable heat. 

10 new agricultural biogas 

installations by 2011 

In 2006, the canton’s Executive 

Council decided to offer support for 

the creation of at least 10 new agricultural 

biogas installations by 2011. 

The canton will provide investment 

support for agricultural enterprises 

to set up biogas production facilities, 

offer consultation services, streamline 

the authorisation process, 

and enhance co-ordination of 

different offices involved in the new 

programme. Agricultural enterprises 

are encouraged to use animal wastes 

and residues from harvests as sources 

for biogas, with a focus on methane 

production in the programme’s first 

phase. 

OAN’s Inforama service, assisted by 

the Ökostrom Schweiz co-operative, 

has developed a “biomass platform” 

and is ready to help farmers set up 

biomass installations. Agricultural 

biomass installations benefit from 

interest-free investment credits and 

can have access to financial support 

from the canton. Inforama also 

provides training in other aspects of 

agriculture and regularly organises 

conferences on agriculture and the 

rural economy. It has offices in Zollikofen, 

Hondrich, Bärau, Koppigen, 

Anet and Langenthal. 

OAN calculates that only around 

one third of the canton’s biomass 

energy resources are currently being 

utilised, and even less than this is 

being employed for energy production. 

In fact, a cantonal study shows 

that the Canton of Berne’s biomass 

energy production could be tripled 

by 2035. 

New strategy for OAN 

In December 2009, Andreas Rickenbacher, 

the Canton of Berne’s State 

Councillor for Public Economy, 

announced a new strategy for OAN 

for the period up to 2014. He says 

that the new strategy will focus 

even more strongly on balancing 

the need to exploit agricultural 

resources while also protecting the 

canton’s natural heritage and rural 

environment. He explains, “It is 

becoming more and more evident 

that agriculture and nature share 

a common future and that the 

numerous possibilities they offer 

are strongly linked, possibilities that 

we will strive to make the best use of 

in the years to come. ’’ 

The OAN’s new strategy focuses on 

two key objectives: to develop a productive, 

competitive and sustainable 

agriculture sector, and to guarantee 

the sustainable use of natural 

resources and the promotion of 

biodiversity in the Canton of Berne. 

Andreas Rickenbacher adds, “We 

must ensure that the Canton of 

Berne’s agriculture sector overall 

implements a coherent strategy 

aimed at producing high quality 

agricultural products so that the 

canton’s agricultural enterprises 

can remain competitive in the long 

term. At the same time, the canton’s 

natural resources must benefit from 

a promotion of biodiversity and an 

emphasis on sustainable use of our 

land, water and air.” 

19

SWITZERLAND 

Camille Bloch 

Family-Owned Chocolate Firm 

Raising Its International Profile 

Camille Bloch, a family business 

founded in Berne, has been 

providing top quality chocolate and 

candies since 1929. It is the source of 

the Ragusa candy bar, a household 

name in Switzerland, and its 4% 

domestic market share places the 

company among the top five Swiss 

producers of candy and chocolate. 

CEO Daniel Bloch explains that 

when his grandfather Camille 

founded the company he was 

building on Switzerland’s established 

expertise in producing fine 

chocolates; Switzerland was the 

place where both milk chocolate 

and ‘conging’, a process of refining 

chocolate, were invented. These 

innovations are typical of the Swiss, 

he believes. He says, “As Switzerland 

has no raw materials, we are 

inventive in processing and transforming 

things. This is an intellectual 

capital that is unique to 

our culture here. My grandfather 

did not invent chocolate; what he 

invented was Ragusa, which is still 

the flagship of the company today.” 

Innovative niche products 

Camille Bloch invented Ragusa 

in 1942 during the Second World 

War when raw materials were in 

short supply. Out of necessity he 

included hazelnuts and hazelnut 

praline in his candy bar rather than 

producing the flat milk chocolate 

bar typical of the time. Ragusa was 

Switzerland’s first real candy bar. 

“He changed the chocolate bar’s 

shape, taste and name. This defines 

our company’s strategy today: we still 

make specialties, and we still start 

with niche products and make them 

grow,” Daniel Bloch explains. 

The company is currently working on 

boosting its international presence. 

“The challenge to globalise is typical 

of Swiss companies,” Daniel Bloch 

points out. Camille Bloch is targeting 

Germany, Northern Italy, France and 

Austria as high potential markets for 

its products. 

To gain market share, Camille 

Bloch intends to enhance global 

awareness of the ‘made in Switzerland’ 

quality of its products as 

well as the special features that set 

Camille Bloch products apart from 

others. The company aims to work 

with duty free sales to reach international 

customers while also increasing 

awareness of the Camille Bloch 

brand in Switzerland. 

Chocolate and candy products are 

not like other types of products in 

that consumers tend to be conservative 

about their tastes in chocolate 

and candy, looking less for innovation 

than for familiarity, Daniel 

Bloch believes. “That is why we do 

not plan to enter the China market 

since there is no established culture 

there of eating chocolate,” he says. 

“Instead of branching out into other 

types of products, Camille Bloch 

works with people who have an 

existing chocolate culture and brings 

that to a new dimension. We inspire 

loyalty in our customers because they 

know our brand will never change. 

Here in the Canton of Berne, we 

are a symbol of sustainability in the 

market,” Daniel Bloch says, noting 

that the company will also keep its 

chocolates affordable. 

Core values typical of Berne 

Berne is the ideal location for Camille 

Bloch. As Daniel Bloch points out, 

“Camille Bloch’s guiding principles 

20


are typical of the Canton of Berne: tradition, reliability 

and inventiveness. In addition, our company has perseverance: 

we were established in a time of crisis and 

we have continued through our positive outlook and 

determination.” 

Another reason for Camille Bloch’s strength is that, 

as a small company, it has to be inventive to survive. 

“A large company can copy a small one, but a small 

one cannot copy a large one. A small company has to 

be more entrepreneurial, more of a pioneer. Since we 

are small, we can be flexible. Decisions can be made 

rapidly and every employee can express a point of view. 

We compete with big companies and we are still successful,” 

Daniel Bloch says proudly. 

As Vice President of Berne’s Chamber of Commerce as 

well as Vice President of the Swiss Chocolate Association 

and a member of the board of other organisations, 

Daniel Bloch is a well-known community leader who is 

very positive about Switzerland as a place to live and work. 

He says, “Switzerland has always been a leader in many 

fields, and has a stable government and legal framework 

as well as humanistic values, openness, multiculturalism, 

and a capacity to adapt. Swiss people have always found 

ways to adapt to challenges. We are not always the first 

to see what it is that we need to do, but we are often very 

early in the game to adapt to new challenges.” 

Promoting Berne’s strengths 

Daniel Bloch believes Berne should work on making 

its attractions better known. “Berne does not have as 

strong an image as it deserves. We need to communicate 

our strengths more,” he says. Camille Bloch enjoys 

close relations with local government leaders and is 

known as a steady, reliable company which has never 

had to lay off staff in its history. 

Grand-Rue 21 

CH-2608 Courtelary 


Phone: +41 (0)32 945 12 00 

Fax: +41 (0)32 945 12 01 

info@camillebloch.ch 

www.camillebloch.ch 

21

SWITZERLAND 

Clusters of Innovative Companies 

in Knowledge-Based Industries 

The Canton of Berne, Switzerland’s second largest canton, 

has established a strong reputation for innovation and 

cutting-edge technologies in several key sectors, each of 

which has its own dynamic cluster of companies. 

Precision industry 

From its longstanding expertise in watchmaking the 

Canton of Berne has developed a globally competitive 

precision industry. This cluster now includes companies 

active in metallurgy, precision mechanics, mechanical 

engineering, tool making, measuring instruments, 

electronics, automation and robotics, automotive technology, 

medical technology and telematics. The Bern 

University of Applied Sciences provides training facilities 

in this field. 

Medical technology 

Switzerland is a global leader in medical technologies 

and the Canton of Berne has around 320 medical technology 

companies operating mainly as manufacturers 

and suppliers. The canton’s leading companies in 

this sector include Medtronic, Haag-Streit, Ypsomed, 

Straumann, Roche Diagnostic, Precimed, Ziemer 

Group, Bien-Air, Carbamed, Steris, Staar Surgical and 

Bernafon. 

The Medical Cluster, a network organisation for 

medical technology companies in the Berne Capital 

Area, focuses on supporting innovative companies in 

this field, while the Competence Centre of Medical 

Technology is responsible for professional technology 

transfer between the canton’s universities and industry. 

Leading medical technology research institutions 

include Bern University Hospital (Inselspital), the 

Artorg Centre for Biomedical Engineering Research, 

the MEM Research Centre, the Theodor Kocher 

Institute, Bern University of Applied Sciences, and 

the Swiss Centre for Electronics and Microtechnology 

(CSEM). The University of Bern and Bern University 

of Applied Sciences offer undergraduate and graduate 

programmes in medical technology. 

ICT 

Switzerland is ranked number three in the world in 

information and telecommunications technologies, and 

around 10% of the country’s ICT companies are based 

in the Canton of Berne. Around 14% of the canton’s 

working population is involved in the ICT sector and 

over 25% of Switzerland’s call centre employees work 

in the canton. Berne’s ICT companies include eBay, 

Orange, T-Systems, Huawei Technologies Switzerland, 

Togewa, Ascom, Sunrise and Swisscom. 

22


The ICT Cluster Berne (tcbe.ch), with over 200 

members, focuses on promoting Berne’s ICT 

sector. Berne’s ICT research institutions include 

the University of Bern, Bern University of Applied 

Science, CSEM, and the Swiss Centre for Electronics 

and Microtechnology in nearby Neuenburg. ICT 

training centres include the University of Bern’s 

Energy and environmental technology 

Switzerland is an excellent base for companies involved 

in energy and environmental technologies thanks to the 

country’s significant spending on research and development, 

stable economy, great innovative capability and a 

high level of environmental awareness. The Canton of 

Berne in particular has a long tradition of sustainable and 

efficient energy applications and employs around 15,000 

people in this sector. Berne supplies over 60% of the heat 

pumps manufactured in Switzerland and is a leader in 

energy efficient housing through such initiatives as the 

MINERGIE Standard and the ‘Plusenergiehaus’ (Surplus 

Energy House). Many local SMEs are working in the fields 

of energy efficiency and renewable energies. 

Bern University of Applied Sciences pursues applied 

research in the areas of energy, mobility and transport 

as well as natural phenomena and geo technology. The 

Oeschger Institut and the National Centre of Climate 

Research of the University of Bern, both based in the 

canton, are two of the world’s leading climate research 

centres. EMPA (the Swiss Federal Laboratories for 

Materials Testing and Research) conducts research in 

natural resources and contaminants as well as materials 

for energy technologies. In addition, the University of 

Bern and Bern University of Applied Sciences offer 

undergraduate and graduate courses in climate sciences, 

ecology, evolution and more. The Swiss Federal Office 

of Energy, the Swiss Federal Department of the Environment, 

the Department for Environmental Coordination 

and Energy for the Canton of Berne, the MINERGIE 

agency and the Swiss Heat Pump Association are all based 

in Berne. 

GGBa 

Institute for Information Technology and Applied 

Mathematics and Institute of Information Systems; 

Bern University of Applied Sciences; the Swiss 

School of Information Systems; and the School of 

Telematics. In addition, four key ICT federal organisations 

are located in Berne: the Swiss Federal 

Office of Information Technology, Systems and Telecommunication 

(FOITT); the Federal Office of 

Communications (OFCOM); the Federal Strategy 

Unit for IT (FSUIT); and the Federal Communications 

Commission (ComCom). 

The canton’s leaders aim to build on Berne’s strengths 

through a new initiative in which Berne has joined 

forces with Geneva and the cantons of Freiburg, Vaud, 

Valais, and Neuchâtel to form the Greater Geneva 

Berne Economic Area, or GGBa. Andreas Rickenbacher, 

Minister of Economy for the Canton of Berne and future 

president of the GGBa in 2012, explains, “Our goal for 

the GGBa is not to create a new metropolitan area but 

rather to work together to promote our region internationally. 

Our project is proof that the diverse languages 

spoken in our region are not a handicap but rather an 

advantage which makes us more competitive.” 

The Berne Economic Development Agency (BEDA) is 

ready to assist investors in Berne’s dynamic industrial 

sectors. 

23

SWITZERLAND 

CEMEX 

Leading Construction Materials Company 

Chooses Switzerland for R&D 

CEMEX, founded in Mexico in 

1906 and now present in more than 

50 countries, is a global building 

materials company that provides high 

quality products and reliable service 

to customers throughout the world. 

In 2001, CEMEX chose the Canton 

of Berne, Switzerland, as its base for 

research and development and intellectual 

property management. Luis 

Treviño, General Director of the 

CEMEX Global Centre for Technology 

and Innovation (GCTI), explains, 

“Our centre works in four areas of 

expertise: Technological processes 

and Materials, Sustainability, 

Energy & C02, Business processes, 

and Information technology. We 

have a high-tech central facility 

where we perform specific analyses 

on different products, scenarios, and 

systems that will eventually be part 

of CEMEX’s standards.” 

Luis Treviño, General Director 

Developing sustainable construction 

materials is a top priority for CEMEX. 

“We are investigating original ways 

of developing environment-friendly 

products with the lowest possible 

costs. This includes redesigning and 

adapting new production processes, 

notes the CEMEX GCTI director. 

“For example, the company has 

developed a 250MW wind farm in 

Mexico, which will provide green 

energy to our Mexican facilities, and 

we are aiming to replicate that in 

other locations.” Looking forward, 

CEMEX´s centre in Switzerland 

continues its commitment to build 

trust through its innovative and 

high-quality processes and products 

and maintain long-term relationships 

with stakeholders. 

CEMEX´s facility in Switzerland is 

equipped with the latest technologies 

available in its field and has 

been expanding rapidly. GCTI works 

closely with Swiss universities and is 

involved in many European projects, 

particularly with the European. 

Commission concerning emissions 

control, fundamental research and 

other issues. CEMEX also participates 

in the Clean Development 

Mechanism, a UN effort to reduce 

CO2 emissions. “In all its efforts, 

CEMEX focuses on adding value and 

on transferring knowledge,” ensures 

Luis Treviño. 

CEMEX plays an active role in the 

economy of Berne and employs 

people from all over the world, 

including Swiss professionals, 

and supports a number of local 

community service projects. “Some 

companies only come here for a 

few years, but we believe in integration 

with the local communities 

in order to be successful and 

have a positive impact on the host 

country,” explains the CEMEX 

GCTI director. 

The global economic crisis has not 

slowed down CEMEX’s research and 

development activities. Luis Treviño 

notes, “We strongly believe that if we 

put in place the right projects with 

the right subjects and the right focus, 

we will be able to access resources to 

further CEMEX progress.” 

For more details go to: 

www.cemex.com/switzerland. 

Römerstrasse 13 

CH-2555 Brügg b. Biel 


Phone: +41 (0)32 366 7825 

Fax: +41 (0)32 366 7892 

www.cemex.com/switzerland 

24


State Councillor for Public Works, 

Transport and Energy Calls for 

Continued Investments 

Barbara Egger-Jenzer, State Councillor for Public 

Works, Transport and Energy for the Canton of Berne 

since 2002, emphasises that in spite of the challenges of 

the global economic crisis, the canton will continue to 

pursue ambitious development strategies. 

Concerning energy policies, she says, “The canton’s 

energy strategy must be based on an open market; the 

state will intervene only when necessary. Our strategic 

objective is to ensure a reliable and reasonably priced 

supply of energy for the canton’s businesses and population. 

A long-term perspective on energy is more 

essential now than ever.” 

In her role as overseer of the canton’s infrastructure 

projects, Barbara Egger-Jenzer explains, “Infrastructure 

is the lifeline of a modern society, and weaknesses 

in transport and energy infrastructures will, sooner 

or later, slow down economic growth. It is necessary, 

therefore, for public authorities to make sufficient 

investments in the construction, development, and 

maintenance of infrastructure.” 

Major infrastructure projects 

Recent major infrastructure projects in the Canton 

of Berne have included the upgrading of Wankdorf 

Square in Bern City and a subsidy for the Bern West 

tram line. The canton plans to invest an additional 

€156.8 million in public transport projects by 2013, 

including in a new tram line between Ostermundigen 

and Koniz and in a proposed project to expand Bern’s 

train station. 

Concerning road construction, Barbara Egger-Jenzer 

says that the Executive Council has adopted an 

investment programme for the period 2009 to 2012 

which has a budget of €108 million more than in the 

previous period. In addition, she says that the canton 

has launched a vast investment program to control 

flooding, a source of problems for the past several 

Barbara Egger-Jenzer, State Councillor for Public Works, Transport and 

Energy for the Canton of Berne 

years. Flood control measures underway will have an 

added benefit of creating jobs, she stresses. 

A challenge for the government is to finance such 

projects at a time when a parliamentary mandate has 

obliged the Executive Council to cut taxes in 2010. 

Barbara Egger-Jenzer says, “The government will do 

everything in its power to make sure that our planned 

investment budget is not affected, but cuts are possible. 

However, to economise in infrastructure will certainly 

give a bad signal. Future generations would have to pay 

dearly to make up for our negligence. In addition, in an 

economic downturn, public authorities should not cut 

their expenditures but rather maintain them at a normal 

level or raise them, to support continued growth.” 

25

SWITZERLAND 

BKW FMB Energy 

Energy Leader Helping Partners 

Fuel Business Growth 

BKW, in business for more than a century, is a leader 

in Switzerland’s energy sector with a market share of 

around 15%. The dynamic enterprise is one of the 

few vertically integrated Swiss energy companies. CEO 

Kurt Rohrbach explains that BKW works with large 

and small enterprises and municipalities, both directly 

and indirectly, and that the company is also involved in 

trading, transmission and production. He says, “Our 

main production is hydropower, but we also produce 

nuclear power, and we are Switzerland’s biggest producer 

of renewable energy.” In fact, BKW was responsible for 

the construction of the country’s first large-scale solar 

energy plant 15 years ago, and it is the principal partner 

in Switzerland’s Mont Soleil and Stade de Suisse solar 

plants and in the Juvent wind energy plant. 

With energy sales of about 26 Terawatt-hours in 2008 

and a workforce of approximately 2,800 employees 

in German and French-speaking Switzerland, Italy 

and Germany, BKW is one of the major Swiss groups 

integrated into the European grid. In its home sales 

area – north-western Switzerland from the Alps to 

the French border – BKW supplies electricity economically, 

safely and ecologically to around a million 

people in 400 communities. In 2008 BKW supplied 

over 7,970 gigawatt hours of energy to private 

customers, industry and distribution partners in Switzerland 

and about 5,200 gigawatt hours in Germany 

and Italy. 

With approximately 12,000 gigawatt hours per year, 

energy trading is another of BKW’s areas of expertise. 

The company was the first enterprise in Switzerland to 

receive a license to trade energy, and it has benefited 

from its well-established market position as a frontrunner. 

Nevertheless, BKW still produces more energy 

than it trades, at a ratio of about seven to one. “We are 

involved in trading but without negating our core competencies 

and without accruing too much risk,” Kurt 

Kurt Rohrbach, CEO 

Rohrbach says. He adds, “Every kilowatt hour of energy 

we produce, we supply via a trading hub.” 

Plan to reduce percentage of public sector 

ownership 

Over the years, BKW has steadily reduced the involvement 

of the cantonal government in its operations. Two 

decades ago it was owned 95% by the Canton of Berne; 

today, this share accounts for roughly 50%, a small 

portion for Switzerland, according to Kurt Rohrbach. 

“Our long-term vision is to reduce this stake even 

more,” he says, noting that BKW’s management has recommended 

it would reduce government’s share to 34%, 

with 25% to 26% remaining ‘free float’ and the rest to 

be held by strategic partners and investors. “Concerning 

attracting foreign investors, we are unlike our competitors 

in the energy sector because their free-float is too 

small. Through reducing the government’s share, we 

have become more attractive for individuals to invest in 

us,” he believes. 

BKW’s goal is to continue to increase its market share. 

Its strategy includes diversifying its production portfolio 

through stepping up its investments abroad, as well as 

investing in other energy ventures, including coal and 

26


Model of the new nuclear plant 

gas. The Swiss market will remain BKW’s top focus, Kurt 

Rohrbach says. “We partner with small distributors who 

do not dispose of their own production. In that way we 

have formed a lot of partnerships throughout Switzerland,” 

he explains. 

The company will also continue to invest in boosting production 

capacity in its plants, and is currently involved 

in a major dam project to enhance its energy storage 

capacity. It also aims to step up its imports, and to replace 

its nuclear power plant, which will come to its technical 

end of life as of 2020. BKW has a strong commitment to 

CO2 free production to protect the environment, and 

plans to increase its involvement in renewable energy as 

well as in smaller hydropower projects. A combination 

of different energy sources is the best choice for Switzerland, 

BKW believes. 

In fact, BKW offers diverse services and growth 

opportunities to any company involved in energy 

production or distribution. “We can provide many 

examples of companies which are very happy with 

our offerings and work closely with us in finding 

the right solutions. We are not always the cheapest, 

but we are the closest to customers, and we focus 

on fulfilling our clients’ particular needs,” Kurt 

Rohrbach says, citing the Swatch Group as one of 

BKW’s satisfied clients. He welcomes contacts with 

potential partners and customers, and concludes, 

“BKW will not only give you personalised service but 

is also able to ensure that you will have access to the 

energy you need not only tomorrow but in the years 

to come, and at reasonable prices.” 

Wide range of services for partners 

Concerning partnerships, BKW has longstanding 

working relationships with distributors and other 

producers. Kurt Rohrbach explains, “For distributors, 

we can offer trade services to give them indirect access 

to markets. We can also provide a package where we take 

even more responsibility in order to secure and provide 

more reliable energy. We can also provide support in 

engineering and manufacturing.” 

BKW FMB Energy Ltd. 

Media Communications 

Viktoriaplatz 2 

3000 Bern 25 


Phone: +41 (0)31 330 51 07 

Fax: +41 (0)31 330 57 90 

info@bkw-fmb.ch 

www.bkw-fmb.ch 

BKW 

27

SWITZERLAND 

Energy Strategy Focuses on 

Renewables 

The Canton of Berne is blessed with rich natural 

resources that are helping to support a dynamic energy 

sector. The canton’s long-term energy policy focuses on 

renewable energy sources and aims to reduce dependence 

on imported energy as well as to reduce CO2 emissions 

and the use of fossil fuels. 

The Canton of Berne’s Executive Council – which 

includes Barbara Egger-Jenzer, State Councillor for 

Public Works, Transport and Energy – also wants to 

reduce the canton’s overall energy consumption from 

the current 6,000 watts per person to 4,000 watts per 

person over the next 30 years, and eventually to reach 

2,000 watts per person. To achieve this ambitious goal, 

the Executive Council has developed an energy policy 

which concentrates on what it terms ‘ecological and 

economic innovation’. 

Water is a key feature of the canton’s energy plans. 

Around 11,132 km of rivers and streams crisscross the 

canton, and the Aar River, which flows for 235 km, fills 

some of Switzerland’s most famous open-air swimming 

pools as well as the lakes of Brienz, Thouen, Wohlen 

and Bienne and others. The Nidau-Büren canal crosses 

the canton as well. 

Making the best use of this natural resource, the Canton 

of Berne now has 318 hydropower stations which 

together supply 60% of the canton’s electricity. Some 

stations are exporting the electricity they produce. 

With its extensive wood resources and agricultural 

activities, the canton is also encouraging the development 

of biomass energy and is providing financial 

incentives for agricultural enterprises which create 

biogas installations. 

Energy and the environment 

Concerning the link between energy and the environment, 

the canton’s Office of Environmental Coordination 

and Energy (CEE) aims “to place more 

emphasis on sustainable development, which will help 

make the Canton of Berne more desirable as a place to 

live and as a base for companies. We aim to exploit our 

natural resources with moderation and only in response 

to our real needs. We will concentrate on reducing our 

dependence on non renewable energies,” according 

to Daniel Klooz, head of the organisation. Berne has 

adopted stringent regulations concerning environmental 

protection. 

The canton has also launched the Berne Energy Convention 

(BEakom), which co-ordinates cantonal activities 

concerning energy, public works, air pollution, 

mobility and development. BEakom’s interdisciplinary 

support helps individual communities devise their own 

long-term energy strategies. Berne is also a pioneer in 

the promotion of the MINERGIE standard aimed at 

reducing energy consumption. The Canton of Berne is 

clearly a leader in energy innovation. 

28


One of Switzerland’s Top Three 

Cantons for Tourism 

The Canton of Berne – one of Switzerland’s top three 

cantons in total tourism visits per year -- offers a wealth of 

attractions, starting with Bern City, the Swiss capital. 

Founded in 1191 on the banks of the Aare River, Bern City 

was declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 

1984 and is considered to be Europe’s most beautiful 

national capital. Bern is where Einstein developed his 

theory of relativity, the world’s biggest Paul Klée collection 

is housed, the famed Toblerone chocolate bar is 

produced and Emmental cheese, known as Swiss cheese 

worldwide, is shipped to global markets. 

The city is known for its elegant sandstone buildings, 

historic towers and magnificent fountains. Bern is the 

home of the Swiss House of Parliament, usually open 

to the public, and of Switzerland’s highest Gothic 

cathedral, the Münster Cathedral. Münster-Terrasse, a 

square in front of the Cathedral, has been a famous 

meeting place for centuries, while Bern’s famous Clock 

Tower features puppets that pop out before the hour. 

Visitors can tour the Swiss Alpine Museum or, in 

summer, join locals for a swim in the clear, clean Aar. 

As Switzerland’s capital, Bern also has extensive facilities 

and services for business travellers. 

Attractions beyond Bern City 

Beyond Bern City in the Bernese Oberland, visitors 

can travel by train to the highest point in Europe, take 

a thrilling rafting trip through the rapids of the Saane 

River, climb the Eiger or relax on a cruise on peaceful 

Lake Thoune, among many other possibilities. 

The Bernese Mittelland offers 5,000 km of well-maintained 

hiking trails, for example along the banks of 

Bienne Lake or on the hillsides of Emmental. Visitors 

can also take lake cruises, cross Europe’s longest 

wooden bridge or take part in myriad cultural activities 

in this lively area. 

One of the main and old streets of Bern 

The Bernese Jura, the French speaking part of the 

canton, offers its own special attractions, which include 

‘Watch Valley’, hub of Switzerland’s famed watchmaking 

industry. Other sites include Europe’s biggest solar 

energy centre (on Mont Soleil, whose name means 

‘Sun Mountain’), and four wind towers on nearby Mont 

Crosin; the two facilities are linked by a path where 

information about these innovative energy projects is 

displayed. 

The cantonal government’s tourism strategy for 2010 

is to focus on promoting the Canton of Berne’s top 12 

key tourism attractions as a package to help attract more 

visitors to this varied and beautiful canton. 

29

SWITZERLAND 

Hotel Bern 

A Capital Hotel in the Heart of 

Switzerland’s Capital City 

Hotel Bern, ideally located in the heart of the city, offers 

exceptional services for leisure and business travellers. 

With its striking Art Déco facade and state-of-the-art 

facilities, Hotel Bern makes a perfect base for visits to 

the city. 

Investing in the latest facilities and services 

Managing Director Peter Schiltknecht points out that 

for the past 24 years the hotel’s management has been 

continuously investing in improving Hotel Bern’s 

facilities and services, including a CHF400,000 investment 

this year in air-conditioning and in upgrades 

for the hotel’s kitchen facilities. “We always invest our 

revenues of around CHF500,000 every year. Four years 

ago, for example, we renovated all the hotel’s guest 

rooms. Basically, every franc the hotel earns is invested 

or stays in-house,” he says. 

Hotel Bern offers 95 guest rooms, of which 45 are very 

spacious single rooms. “All our singles are, in fact, king 

sized rooms,” Peter Schiltknecht points out. Services 

include high speed Internet connections via Ethernet 

and wireless LAN, direct dial telephones, special 

parking rates, and a free American breakfast buffet. 

Wide choice of dining options 

The hotel’s food and beverage services are very 

popular, and include professional catering. The 

hotel’s events staff is well known for organising high 

quality events of all kinds. 

Guests have many dining options in Hotel Bern. The 

cosy 7-Stube offers a wide choice of delicious daily 

specials, seasonal dishes, light meals and farmhouse 

fare with a focus on Swiss cuisine. The elegant 

Kurierstube, prestigiously ranked 14th by French 

guidebook Gault-Millau, features a seasonal gourmet 

menu or à la carte dishes fresh from the market, and 

its international wine list is exceptional; the restaurant 

is a sophisticated setting for a business lunch or 

for a romantic candlelight dinner for two. 

For more casual dining, the Sonnenterrace serves 

light meals and drinks on a terrace overlooking 

the rooftops of Old Town, while the Boulevardterrace 

on the street level is a pleasantly casual place 

to meet friends and enjoy a varied selection of food 

and drinks while watching the world go by. 

Meeting facilities for 10 to 300 guests 

For business travellers, Hotel Bern contains meeting 

rooms for all types of events and regularly hosts professional 

congresses, lectures, discussions, debates 

and dinners. The hotel’s meeting facilities can 

accommodate private functions for 10 to 300 guests. 

“We provide attentive service and professional advice 

tailored to your requirements,” Peter Schiltknecht 

explains. 

Hotel Bern is a favourite among high profile visitors; 

at this moment one suite is occupied by Minister 

Micheline Calmy-Rey. Hotel Bern also hosts sports 

teams, the Young Boys’ Club, and many other organisations. 

Its clientele is around 80% business visitors, 

mainly Swiss. 

30


Ideal location, focus on service 

Pointing out why Hotel Bern is such a popular choice 

among discerning visitors, Peter Schiltknecht says, “We 

are in the middle of Bern’s picturesque Old Town, and 

our rooms are very quiet. We are also only five minutes 

away from the Parliament, the train station and all 

transport services. We have an excellent location for 

business or leisure visitors to Bern’s city centre.” 

While location is a strong point for the Hotel Bern, what 

keeps guests coming back to the hotel is its focus on personalised 

service. As Peter Schiltknecht explains, “For 

me, most important to try is to make sure our guests 

are happy while they are here. Hotels have software and 

hardware; for me, the software is more important. I try 

to have a personal interaction with all my employees and 

guests. Everyone talks about putting service first, but not 

everyone does it. Here we do.” 

unlike other hotels of its class. We are a capital hotel 

right in the centre of Switzerland’s capital city!” 

Hotel Bern is a true Swiss hotel, not an international 

chain, and it focuses on providing guests with high 

quality Swiss style and service. The hotel works closely 

with the Swiss tourism board and with the Hotelleriesuisse 

hotel association to promote Switzerland as a 

choice for business and leisure travel. 

Hotel Bern also promotes the city of Bern, which Peter 

Schiltknecht describes as ‘the nicest city in the world’. 

He adds, “Bern is the capital of Switzerland and it is 

listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We are near 

the mountains, and we are located in the very heart of 

the country. Bern and Hotel Bern are very special.” 

Exceptional quality price ratio 

The Hotel Bern also offers an exceptional quality price 

ratio. As Peter Schiltknecht points out, “Our rooms are 

newly renovated, not luxurious but clean, and the hotel 

offers the highest ratio of service to price of any hotel in 

the city. Hotel Bern is also right in the heart of the city, 

Zeughausgasse 9 

CH-3011 Bern 

Phone: +41 (0)31 329 22 22 

reception@hotelbern.ch 

www.hotelbern.ch 

31

• Innovation, Research, and High Quality of Life 

• Competence Clusters in Leading-Edge Industries 

• Home of the Lake Geneva Region 


“Other cantons may have more 

industry players, but we have more 

academic and research players” 

Jean-Claude Mermoud, State Councillor for Economics for the 

Canton of Vaud


Vaud: Innovation, Research, and 

High Quality of Life 

The State Council for Economics 

for the Canton of Vaud oversees a 

thriving local economy in which 

foreign companies and residents play 

a vital role. Investors and residents 

are attracted by Vaud’s exceptionally 

high quality of life as well as its welldeveloped 

research institutions and 

infrastructure. 

“The Canton of Vaud offers an 

excellent work/life balance which 

is attracting international decision 

makers to our area,” says Jean- 

Claude Mermoud, State Councillor 

for Economics for the Canton 

of Vaud. He notes that 30% of the 

canton’s residents are from abroad, 

and that local organisations include 

the headquarters of the International 

Olympic Committee. 

Another attraction for business 

investment is that the canton has 

developed around 20 sector-specific 

zones - including technology and 

science parks - which offer everything 

a company needs to do business in its 

field. “We have zones in life sciences, 

biotechnology, the food industry, 

and logistics, for example. Vaud has 

a large territory so companies have a 

wide choice of locations, and we still 

have a lot of room to welcome new 

activities and companies,” Jean-Claude 

Mermoud says. The canton has made 

significant investments in ensuring 

that all these zones are equipped with 

the highest quality infrastructure. 

Focus on innovation and 

research 

Another key reason to set up a 

business in Vaud is the high number 

of academic and research institutions 

in the canton. “Vaud has a 

strong and developed research competence 

that other regions lack, and 

this has contributed to the large 

number of start-up companies here 

in life sciences and nanotechnology. 

We are more geared to innovation 

and start-up creation than the other 

cantons are,” Jean-Claude Mermoud 

explains. He adds, “Other cantons 

Jean-Claude Mermoud, State Councillor for 

Economics for the Canton of Vaud 

may have more industry players, but 

we have more academic and research 

players.” 

Overall, Vaud’s economy offers 

‘choice, diversity and volume’ 

unmatched by other cantons, 

according to Jean-Claude Mermoud. 

He believes that the canton’s top 

sectors for the future include information 

and communications technology, 

life sciences, nano-technology, 

biotechnology, medical 

technology, nutrition, agriculture, 

tourism, renewable energy, niche 

activities driven by innovation, and 

the establishment of companies’ 

international headquarters. 

Investors attracted to Switzerland 

should be aware of Vaud’s competitive 

edge. As Jean-Claude Mermoud points 

out, “Thanks to its bilateral agreements 

with the EU, Switzerland offers 

the advantages of the EU without the 

drawbacks, and Vaud is fostering an 

innovative atmosphere with a high 

attention to quality that cannot be replicated 

elsewhere in Switzerland.” 

33

SWITZERLAND 

Competence Clusters in Leading- 

Edge Industries 

The Canton of Vaud’s industrial activity is dominated 

by leading-edge sectors which benefit from three key 

factors: a tradition of highly skilled human resources in 

innovative fields, the presence of leading multinationals, 

and a commitment to research and development on the 

part of the canton’s many universities and specialised 

institutions. 

As the Office of Economic Affairs of the Canton of 

Vaud points out, “These three elements have fed on 

each other to produce international centres of competence, 

creating a critical mass in cutting-edge fields, 

which constantly draws in new players.” The canton’s 

main competence clusters are in life sciences, micro/ 

nanotechnology, information and communications 

technology (ICT), power and environmental technologies, 

and agribusiness technologies. 

Life sciences, including biotechnology and 

medical engineering 

The canton of Vaud is one of the top research clusters 

in Europe’s ‘Biomedical Valley’ and is the heart of 

BioAlps, a life sciences cluster which includes the neighbouring 

cantons of Geneva, Neuchâtel, Fribourg and 

Valais. Prestigious local life sciences research centres 

include Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), the 

Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research 

(ISREC), the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, 

the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, the Biomedical 

Engineering Laboratory at the Swiss Federal Institute 

of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) and the Faculty of 

Medicine at the University of Lausanne. 

Leading biotechnology firm Merck-Serono chose 

Vaud as the site of its main production and pharmaceutical 

research centre. The canton is also the home 

of some 70 companies employing more than 2,000 

people in the life science sector, ranging from start-ups 

to multinationals like Merck-Serono, Medtronic and 

Beckman Coulter. The new Biopôle park in Lausanne 

and Epalinges has been designed to provide the ideal 

base for companies active in biotechnology and health 

technologies. 

Micro/nanotechnology 

From its long tradition of watchmaking Vaud has 

developed exceptional expertise in precision mechanics 

and miniaturisation. Today, this expertise has helped to 

make Vaud a centre for micro/nanotechnology employed 

in a wide range of fields. More than 150 micro technology 

firms are based in the canton, employing more 

than 7,300 people and generating an annual turnover of 

around €3 billion, more than half of which comes from 

exports. The canton has many centres of research and 

education in precision technologies, including the Micro 

engineering Department at EPFL; the Institute of Micro 

and Nano Techniques at Vaud School of Business and 

Engineering (HEIG-VD); and the Swiss Foundation for 

Research in Micro technology (FSRM). On a regional 

level, the Vaud is part of Western Switzerland’s Micronarc 

micro technology innovation platform. 

Information and communications technology 

Vaud has more than 700 ICT companies employing 

some 32,000 people active in research and development 

as well as the production and distribution of high value 

added ICT products and services. Local ICT companies 

are involved in a full range of activities, from software 

programming to data storage, processing, analysis and 

transmission. Multimedia applications and human/ 

machine interfaces are two emerging fields in the 

canton, and activities involving e-commerce are also 

developing rapidly. 

The Vevey based Swiss Multimedia and Electronic Communication 

Association (SwissMedia) actively promotes 

collaboration and exchanges in the ICT sector and 

provides an incubator for start-ups. Local ICT research 

centres include the School of Computer and Communication 

Sciences at EPFL, which specialises in computer 

security; the Information Systems Institute at the University 

of Lausanne (UNIL); and the computer science and 

telecommunications departments at HEIG-VD. 

Power and environmental technologies 

Renewable energy, solar energy, biomass, bio-diesel, 

bio-gas, water purification, thermal engineering, 

34


Lausanne City 

hydraulics: Vaud has developed expertise in all these 

leading-edge fields. Local research and education 

centres include the EPFL and the sciences and environmental 

engineering and ecotechnology departments 

of HEIG-VD. Many Vaud based companies 

operating in the power and environmental sectors are 

affiliated with the Swiss competence networks ‘energie-cluster.ch’ 

and ‘ader.ch’ (renewable energy). The 

canton of Vaud also has a technology centre specialising 

in power and the environment: the Orbe Environmental 

Technology Centre, which focuses mainly on 

renewable energy. 

Agribusiness technologies 

Vaud has a long tradition of expertise in agribusiness, 

one reason Nestlé chose to set up its main research 

centre (Nestlé Research Centre, NRC) near Lausanne. 

This centre, which employs more than 300 scientists 

from 45 countries, is known for its innovative activities 

involving nutrition, bio analytics, functional foods and 

food safety. It has established a long-term partnership 

with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne 

(the Brain Mind Institute) to focus on research and 

education in the field of cognitive neuroscience, specifically 

the mechanisms which enable the brain to integrate 

different sensory modalities. This is considered to be 

one of the greatest challenges in modern neurobiology. 

Leading agribusiness firms in Vaud include Nestlé, 

Hilcona and Guignard Desserts. 

Vaud’s competence clusters all benefit from skilled 

human resources, strong government support, well-established 

ties to other competence clusters in Europe 

and globally, exceptional infrastructure, and opportunities 

for synergies between clusters. 

35

SWITZERLAND 

Eaton Corporation 

Leading Global Power Management Company 

Recommends Vaud as Business Base 

Eaton Corporation, a global 

technology leader in electrical, 

hydraulics, aerospace, automotive 

and truck power management 

solutions, chose to move its European 

headquarters from Amsterdam to 

Morges, in the canton of Vaud, 

Switzerland, in 2005. 

“Eaton helps its customers to use 

power more effectively, efficiently 

and safely,” says Yannis Tsavalas, 

President of Eaton’s Europe, 

Middle East and Africa (EMEA) 

region. “Our regional headquarters 

oversee some 18,000 

employees in nearly 60 locations 

with over 2.16 billion(US$3 

billion) in annual revenues.” 

As part of the company’s strategy 

to better serve its customers and 

markets, regional presidents were 

also named for each of Eaton’s 

EMEA businesses. The company 

continues to centralise corporate 

Eaton Corporation is a diversified 

power management company with 

a turnover of 8.56 billion (US$11.9 

billion) in 2009. Eaton is a global 

technology leader in electrical components 

and systems for power quality, 

distribution and control; hydraulics 

components, systems and services for 

industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace 

fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic 

systems for commercial and military 

use; and truck and automotive drive 

train and powertrain systems for performance, 

fuel economy and safety. 

Eaton has approximately 70,000 

employees and sells products to customers 

in more than 150 countries. 

Yannis Tsavalas, President Europe, Middle East 

and Africa 

activities through its regional headquarters 

and today employs around 

250 employees in Switzerland — of 

which 170 in Vaud. 

“Vaud offers an excellent business 

environment, strong infrastructure, 

a stable government and 

central location for our regional 

headquarters,” Tsavalas explains. 

“The attractive lifestyle also plays 

a key role in the company’s ability 

to attract and maintain a highly 

skilled workforce, which is integral 

to executing our aggressive growth 

strategy in the region.” 

In terms of Eaton’s plans for growth, 

Tsavalas points out that innovation 

is a key element of the company’s 

strategy and has always been a 

guiding principle for Eaton. 

“Switzerland provides strong support 

not only for Eaton’s operations,” says 

Tsavalas adding, “Switzerland’s government 

also gives incubator support 

and access to funding for start-ups 

and small and medium-sized enterprises 

(SMEs) involved in innovative 

projects. The resulting infrastructure 

development continues to 

attract dynamic, forward-thinking 

companies.” 

“Eaton appreciates that the canton 

of Vaud in particular and Switzerland 

in general provide the resources the 

company needs to continue to grow 

and develop,” Tsavalas concludes. 

“We are pleased with our decision 

to move our headquarters to the Lac 

Leman region.” 

36

Lake Geneva 

Canton of Vaud: Home of the Lake 

Geneva Region 

The Canton of Vaud is the home of the Lake Geneva 

(Lac Léman) region, which combines exceptional 

natural beauty, a long history, dynamic cultural 

activities, unlimited sports options from downhill skiing 

to water sports, elegant spas, more than 200 historical 

monuments, and much more. 

Lausanne: capital of culture and business 

Lausanne, the capital of the canton and the second 

largest city on Lake Geneva, is a thriving business 

centre as well as a popular holiday resort. It is built on 

three hills and surrounded by vineyard covered slopes, 

with Lake Geneva at its feet and the Savoy Alps on the 

French shore of the lake in the distance. Lausanne’s 

attractive medieval city centre is largely car free and 

its narrow streets are lined with cafés and boutiques. 

For an unforgettable view of Lausanne from the water, 

visitors can take cruises on the lake. 

Lausanne’s Old Town is dominated by Lausanne 

Cathedral, ranked Switzerland’s most impressive 

example of early Gothic architecture. Shopping streets 

surround the cathedral and are found throughout 

the pretty waterfront area of Ouchy. A tourism centre 

for generations, Lausanne is the home of some of the 

world’s finest hotels, including the Beau-Rivage Palace 

in Ouchy. Lausanne is also a very popular choice for MICE 

(meetings, incentives, conventions and events) tourism. 

The city’s cultural activities are known worldwide. 

Lausanne is the base of the Béjart Ballet and hosts the 

Prix de Lausanne international ballet competition, the 

Lausanne Jazz Festival, and many other cultural events 

year round. The Musée de l’Art Brut showcases a unique 

collection while the Fondation de l’Hermitage presents 

high-quality art shows all year. 

Home of the International Olympic Committee, 

Lausanne is a mecca for sports enthusiasts. The annual 

Lausanne Marathon, the Tour de Romandie pro cycling 

event, and the Athletissima track and field event draw 

athletes from all over the world, while the Olympic 

Museum provides an overview of the history of the 

Olympic Games. Visitors will find facilities for all kinds 

of sports throughout the city. 

Attractions beyond Lausanne 

The Canton of Vaud has a wealth of tourism attractions 

beyond Lausanne. The two little towns of Avenches 

and Payerne are excellent choices as a base for walking 

and cycling tours of local nature reserves, and there 

are many vineyards open to visitors as well. Avenches, 

formerly Aventicum, the capital of Roman Helvetia, 

boasts a unique heritage from Roman times. 

37

SWITZERLAND 

Lausanne City 

Château-d’Oex and Rougemont 

offer a wide range of diverse sporting 

activities in both summer and 

winter, and thanks to its favourable 

micro-climate, Château-d’Oex has 

become a popular centre for hot-air 

ballooning. 

In the picturesque Jura mountain 

region, visitors can explore the Vallée 

de Joux with its own lake; it is located 

in rugged and unspoilt countryside 

and is a popular choice for lovers 

of water sports, hiking, mountain 

biking and horseback riding. The 

Jura village of Saint-Cergue high 

above Lake Geneva offers views 

of the Savoy Alps as far as Mont 

Blanc, while the sunlit woods and 

high alpine meadows in the Vaud 

Jura Park and the impressive peak 

of La Dôle are ideal for long walks. 

Another Jura village is Sainte-Croix, 

which is renowned for its music 

boxes and nickelodeons. In winter, 

the Vaud Jura is a paradise for crosscountry 

skiing. 

Leysin, located on a terrace 1,200 m 

above sea level, offers fantastic views 

of the Rhone Plain, Mont Blanc, the 

Dents du Midi and Diablerets, and is 

an ideal base for visitors interested in 

skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, 

climbing and paragliding. Diablerets, 

for example, offers all kinds of winter 

sports, including glacier skiing. 

Montreux is another jewel in the 

Canton of Vaud’s tourism crown. 

Located on a bay of Lake Geneva, 

surrounded by vineyards against the 

breathtaking backdrop of the Alps, 

Montreux is the home of a famous 

jazz festival which attracts great 

musicians from all over the world. 

Vineyard tours and more 

Nearby Vevey, known as one of the 

“Pearls of the Swiss Riviera”, is the 

starting point for the Train des 

Vignes (Vineyard Train), which 

takes travellers on a leisurely 

journey from Vevey to Chexbres 

through the winegrowing region 

of the Lavaux, high above Lake 

Geneva. The area has a 1,000 year 

tradition of wine production and 

is known for its wines featuring 

the chasselas grape. The terraced 

Lavaux vineyards were classified 

as a UNESCO World Heritage Site 

in 2007. Morges is another top 

choice as a base for vineyard visits, 

as is Nyon, on Lake Geneva halfway 

between Lausanne and Geneva 

and surrounded by the vineyards 

of La Côte. 

Among the Vaud’s spas, Yverdonles-Bains 

on the south-western tip 

of Lake Neuenburg is Western Switzerland’s 

most important health spa 

resort. Two unusual museums and 

an extensive nature preserve with an 

information centre are among the 

town’s key sights. 

For exceptional tourism variety and 

beauty, the Canton of Vaud is a top 

choice. 

38


Château d’Ouchy 

Luxury and Exceptional Service 

For travellers in search of a haven 

of tranquillity just minutes from the 

centre of Lausanne, the Château 

d’Ouchy is the perfect choice. The 

recently renovated château-hotel, 

which is housed in an elegant 19th 

century neo-Gothic château, blends 

period charm and contemporary 

style. Guestrooms feature parquet 

floors, lush white linens, and a 

restful colour scheme of browns and 

creams, all of which make a perfect 

setting for enjoying sensational 

views of mountains and the lake. 

Guests can dine on gourmet Mediterranean 

cuisine in the hotel’s restaurant, 

or relax in the pool or in the 

elegant spa. A private boat, the Etoile 

du Léman, is available for cruises on 

the lake, and the lobby bar and Sunset 

Bar in the gardens are ideal for quiet 

drinks. In summer, the Tapas Bar on 

the terrace serves tasty Spanish delicacies 

and beverages, and a private 

wine room is available by reservation 

only. Wi-Fi connections are available 

throughout the hotel. 

Nearby attractions include 

Lausanne’s 13th century cathedral 

and the Olympic Museum in Ouchy, 

and Lausanne’s lively cultural scene 

is only a metro ride away. The hotel’s 

staff can help organise individual tours 

of local vineyards and other sites. 

Focus on personalised service 

Service helps set Château d’Ouchy 

apart. Pablo Pizarro, Manager, 

explains, “We have a one to one staff 

to guest ratio here. The Château 

d’Ouchy is a young and dynamic hotel 

which offers guests, including business 

travellers, a home away from home.” 

The Château d’Ouchy is a member 

of the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels 

association, a guarantee that guests 

can count on a personal touch as well 

as luxurious amenities. 

Formerly with the Ritz hotel in Paris, 

the Cipriani in Venice, and Dubai’s 

ultra luxurious Burj Al Arab hotel, 

Pablo Pizarro opened the Château 

d’Ouchy in 2008 after the hotel had 

undergone a four year renovation. He 

explains that around 80% of the hotel’s 

guests are executive travellers, some 

of whom make the Château d’Ouchy 

their home for several months. 

The Château d’Ouchy and its sister 

property, the Lausanne Palace & Spa, 

work with a number of international 

and local companies and organisations, 

including the Swiss tourist office. Pablo 

Pizarro urges international travellers 

to discover Lausanne’s many charms, 

and concludes, “The two best hotels in 

Lausanne are the Lausanne Palace & 

Spa and the Château d’Ouchy!” 

Château d’Ouchy 

2, place du Port 

1006 Lausanne - Switzerland 

Phone: +41 (0)21 331 32 32 

info@chateaudouchy.ch 

www.chateaudouchy.ch 

39

SWITZERLAND 

Lausanne Palace & Spa 

Truly Palatial Facilities and Services 

The legendary Lausanne Palace & Spa has been the 

preferred choice for visiting VIPs since it opened in 

1915. The five-star property offers luxurious amenities 

and cutting-edge facilities in a landmark Belle Epoque 

building ideally located in the heart of Lausanne. 

General Manager Jean-Jacques Gauer, President of 

the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World group, 

has helped make the Lausanne Palace & Spa a ‘must’ 

for visitors to Lausanne. Under his and owner Ute 

Funke’s guidance, the hotel has been made even more 

exceptional through a multi-million euro renewal 

programme. 

The Lausanne Palace contains the CBE Concept Spa, 

one of the first spas chosen to be part of the Leading 

Spas of the World group, a new luxury accreditation 

of Leading Hotels of the World. The spa, which has 

launched its own line of exclusive anti ageing products, 

specialises in tailored programmes to suit each person’s 

needs and goals. 

To serve executive travellers, the hotel has its own hightech 

conference centre which includes eight adaptable 

meeting rooms. In addition, the hotel’s upscale banquet 

facilities can be customised to serve as the ideal setting 

for all types of events. 

Exclusive meeting point 

A wide range of elegant, innovative restaurants and bars 

as well as the private Red Club nightclub (open only 

to members and hotel guests) have made the Lausanne 

Palace & Spa an exclusive meeting point in the heart of 

the city. 

The hotel’s flagship restaurant, the Table d’Edgard, 

features the gourmet cuisine of chef Edgard Bovier 

and is ranked one of the top restaurants in Switzerland. 

Up to six lucky diners can enjoy the La Table d’Hôtes 

experience: an unforgettable meal cooked especially 

for them while they watch the chefs at work. Côté 

Jardin restaurant offers cuisine from sunny climes while 

Grand-Chêne specialises in refined yet robust Parisian 

brasserie fare. Last but not least, the Palace Sushi Zen 

where three specialists recruited from the Land of the 

Rising Sun create their dishes in front of the guests. 

The Lausanne Palace is also well known for its LP’s Bar, 

a stylish local hangout; the Habana Bar with the finest 

Cuban cigars; the brand-new trendy 1915 bar in the 

Hotel Lobby; the Krug Room, where guests can sample 

the world’s best champagne; and the Cellar, with more 

than 20,000 bottles of the world’s best wines. 

The Lausanne Palace pampers its guests with services that 

are truly five star. As Jean-Jacques Gauer says, “We put our 

guests’ comfort and well-being above all other considerations. 

The Lausanne Palace is a legend in its own time, a 

hotel which has always moved with the times while anticipating 

and exceeding its guests’ expectations.” 

Lausanne Palace & Spa 

Grand-Chêne 7-9 - 1002 Lausanne - Switzerland 

Phone : +41 (0)21 331 31 31 

www.lausanne-palace.ch 

info@lausanne-palace.ch 

40

• International, Business Friendly, and Focussed on Innovation 

• Switzerland’s Most International Canton 

• Warm Welcome for Visitors 


“The city’s high standard of living 

and central location make it easy 

for companies to attract talented 

human resources” 

François Longchamp, President of the State Council for the Canton 

of Geneva and State Councillor for Solidarity and Employment

SWITZERLAND 

Geneva Skyline 

Geneva: Switzerland’s Most 

International Canton 

Jean-François Unger, State Councillor for Economic Affairs 

and Health for the Canton of Geneva, explains, “Geneva 

is the most international canton in Switzerland; 45% of 

its residents are expatriates. Geneva has also become the 

country’s fastest growing canton.” More than 160 international 

headquarters, 300 non-government organisations, 

and numerous research and development centres in a wide 

variety of industries are based in the canton. 

42


Local companies benefit from the large number of 

international decision makers based in the canton, 

as well as the presence of two prominent universities. 

Geneva’s economy has diversified from its earlier focus 

on watchmaking to include thriving activities in a variety 

of sectors. “Geneva is also the European leader in commodities 

trading for agricultural and oil products and 

is home to a burgeoning biotech and medical technology 

sector; in fact, it is number one in Europe in life 

sciences,” Jean-François Unger points out. He adds 

that Geneva-based information and telecommunications 

technology companies are making their mark 

worldwide. 

While many multinationals have established operations 

in Geneva, the canton also has many very successful 

small and medium-sized enterprises, and the government 

has instituted an incubator system to provide 

support for SMEs through offering administrative assistance 

and other aids. 

Building tomorrow’s Geneva 

As Geneva continues to grow and attract new residents 

and businesses, its Department of Construction and 

Information Technology (DCIT) is making sure the city’s 

infrastructure meets evolving needs. The DCIT oversees 

urban planning and new construction of buildings and 

infrastructure, housing developments, protection of 

listed buildings and sites, and IT services. 

Mark Muller, State Councillor for Construction and 

IT for the Canton of Geneva, has headed the DCIT 

since 2005. He explains that Geneva has a number of 

new infrastructure projects in the works, including 

new housing developments, new tramway and rail connections, 

and new hospitals and schools. The DCIT is 

also working to streamline the process of applying for 

permits for construction projects and is ensuring that all 

new developments meet Geneva’s high standards. 

One current project will be Geneva’s biggest industrial 

area when it is completed in around 15 years; the development 

will also include around 15,000 apartments and 

related facilities and services. Mark Muller explains, 

“Geneva has always been a very attractive city for business 

and living and it has historically had a housing shortage, 

so we are working hard to remedy this.” 

Another key project for the DCIT is to streamline 

connections between Geneva and neighbouring 

France. Mark Muller explains that his office is 

working closely with French officials to harmonise 

regulations concerning cross border transport infrastructure 

and IT links. 

New Geneva-Lausanne rail connections 

A major initiative now underway is a new railway line 

connecting Geneva and Lausanne. The new connection 

on the very busy route will be equipped with 

the latest technologies and will “add more value to 

Geneva,” Mark Muller says. 

Passenger traffic on the Geneva-Lausanne rail line is 

expected to grow by 120% by 2030, and the current 

project aims to double passenger seats on the 

major rail line sometime this year and to increase 

the frequency of commuter trains in the cantons of 

Geneva and Vaud. The new project will also include 

new connections between Geneva airport and 

Lausanne. 

The DCIT is also responsible for e-government 

services in Geneva, including services which allow 

residents to fill out tax forms online. “We are the 

leader in e-administration,” Mark Muller points out. 

Geneva will continue to remain one of the world’s 

most attractive cities to live and work in, Mark Muller 

believes. He says, “Geneva is the most internationally 

focused canton in Switzerland. Our population is 

45% expats, and we have a very open culture which 

welcomes people of all different backgrounds.” 

Greater Geneva and Berne Area 

To maintain its competitive edge, the canton of Geneva 

has joined forces with other cantons in Western Switzerland 

to create the Greater Geneva and Berne Area. 

“I am president of this development agency, and 

we are unified in promoting this area to the international 

community. We aim to keep the area competitive 

within Switzerland as the country as a whole 

continues to grow,” Jean-François Unger says. 

The State Councillor notes that one focus for 

Geneva’s local government is to continue to develop 

the canton’s human resources. He explains, “Since 

human capital is the most important resource for 

Swiss companies and business development, this is an 

important item to focus on if Geneva is to continue 

to enjoy the success that it has been having.” 

Jean-François Unger urges international investors to 

target the canton of Geneva. He says, “In addition 

to its many other advantages, the quality of life in 

Geneva is excellent and this has helped attract many 

leading CEOs to this region. This clustering effect 

is a key factor in making Switzerland and Geneva 

special.” 

43

SWITZERLAND 

International, Business Friendly, 

and Focussed on Innovation 

Geneva is one of the world’s most international cities 

and is home to many leading global organisations, 

including the Red Cross, which was founded there in the 

19th century. In addition, expatriates make up almost 

half of Geneva’s population. 

According to François Longchamp, President of the 

State Council for the canton of Geneva and State 

Councillor for Solidarity and Employment, Geneva’s 

guiding principles include respect for human rights, 

openness to all types of individuals, and support for 

people’s efforts to achieve financial security. “For more 

than 500 years, the accumulation and management of 

wealth have been clustered in this region,” he says. 

The canton of Geneva is well known for its very pro 

business environment, strategic European location, 

history of innovation, and high standard of living, 

factors which have attracted major multinationals as 

well as thriving smaller companies to set up operations 

there. “Through multiple bilateral agreements 

there is lack of bureaucracy when it comes to jobs, 

laws and corporate operations here in Geneva, and 

the city’s high standard of living and central location 

make it easy for companies to attract talented human 

resources,” François Longchamp points out. 

In addition, Geneva has a very diverse business sector 

which includes financial services (especially private 

banking and wealth management), watchmaking and 

international headquarters. Geneva is proactive in 

maintaining growth in every segment of its economy, 

and is increasingly becoming known as a hub for hedge 

funds and commodities trading. 

Flexible, efficient and reliable business 

culture 

François Longchamp explains that one of Geneva’s 

biggest assets is that its culture and business environment 

are not only flexible but also reliable and 

efficient. He adds, “We are also the only canton in 

Switzerland that created more jobs in 2009 than in 

2008. The government has an open dialogue with the 

François Longchamp, President of the State Council for the Canton of Geneva 

and State Councillor for Solidarity and Employment for Geneva 

business community, and Geneva has a long standing 

tradition of quality.” 

As for the future, Geneva is making major investments 

in its infrastructure, including more than 1.04 billion 

over four years to build an underground railway passing 

beneath Lake Geneva, and €278.8 million to expand the 

canton’s international airport, already one of Europe’s 

busiest. Building more housing is another goal. 

Geneva’s economic strategy, according to François 

Longchamp, takes into account the canton’s limited 

space. He says, “We will focus on core sectors and industries 

where we can provide expertise, and then build 

those strategically. Geneva’s unique mixture of qualities 

will continue to support and enhance innovation and 

productivity.” 

44


Geneva: Warm Welcome for 

Visitors 

Geneva, one of the world’s most international cities, is 

one of Switzerland’s top tourism destinations. With its 

picturesque setting on Lake Geneva, many parks and 

gardens, historic architecture, lively cultural scene, 

gourmet restaurants and outstanding shopping opportunities, 

Geneva has something to please any traveller. 

“Must see” sites include Geneva’s lakefront with the 

iconic jet d’eau (water fountain) which has become a 

symbol of the city. Originally built in the 19th century 

as a vent from a hydraulic installation, it was equipped 

with a pump which now drives jets of water 200 km per 

hour up to a height of 140 m. Another unique attraction 

is the Flower Clock in the Jardin Anglais (English 

Garden), a symbol of Geneva’s famed watch industry. 

A blend of floral art and high technology, the working 

clock has a dial composed of over 6,500 flowers. Its 

second hand is the longest of any clock in the world 

(2.5 m). 

Place Neuvelt is the city’s cultural hub, home of the 

Grand Theatre, the Conservatory of Music, and the 

famed Rath art museum (one of the city’s 40 museums), 

while the Place du Bourg de Four in Geneva’s Old 

Town has been a meeting place and business hub 

since Roman times. Other sites include Saint Peter’s 

Cathedral, built in the 12th century and extensively 

remodeled over the years; Reformation Wall honouring 

the religious movement; and the imposing United 

Nations building. The suburb of Carouge is another 

popular attraction for its trendy boutiques, antiques 

dealers and restaurants. 

Exceptional services for business travellers 

For business travellers, Geneva offers the highest quality 

facilities, and the Geneva Convention Bureau provides 

a range of services to ensure the success of international 

events. Headquarters of the United Nations and 

the International Red Cross, as well as of many other 

international organisations and companies, Geneva 

attracts thousands of people each year for meetings, 

conferences and exhibitions. 

Reformation Wall in Geneva 

Geneva is also a shopper’s paradise. It is the watch 

capital of the world, a centre for exquisite jewelry, and a 

source for all kinds of high quality Swiss and imported 

items. Shoppers can take a break by taking a cruise on 

Lake Geneva. 

Geneva is easy to reach from anywhere in Europe by 

air, rail or road, and its international airport has connections 

to destinations all over the world. Efficient 

ground transfers are available from the airport to the 

city centre and hotels. Geneva rolls out the welcome 

mat for visitors. 

45

SWITZERLAND 

Hotel InterContinental 

Ultimate in Five-Star Services in 

the Heart of Diplomatic District 

The five-star Hotel InterContinental Genève offers 

superlative facilities and services in the heart of the 

city’s diplomatic district just 10 minutes from the international 

airport. The 18-storey hotel is surrounded by 

parkland, with Lake Geneva and the Alps visible in 

the distance. The United Nations building and the 

offices of other international organisations -- as well as 

Geneva’s Old Town, the Ariana Museum, the Botanical 

Gardens and other top sites -- are all nearby. 

The InterContinental Genève is often chosen as a 

venue for high profile international meetings and 

events, and has hosted around 400 Heads of State and 

4,000 government ministers since it opened in 1964. 

The hotel is continually being upgraded to ensure that 

guests’ expectations are not only met but exceeded in 

every way. 

Competitive edge 

The InterContinental Genève is a proud member of 

the global InterContinental Hotels and Resorts group, 

which includes luxury hotel and resort facilities in key 

locations in 60 countries. As Michel Perret, General 

Manager points out, “Of course, having the InterContinental 

chain’s support gives us a competitive edge in 

terms of adaptability and finances to provide the best 

possible service that we can.” 

The hotel has 334 rooms of which 102 are suites, and 

it employs a staff of 300 to ensure the highest quality 

personal service. Michel Perret says, “We have invested 

€56 million (CHF80 million) in revenues in the hotel’s 

latest renovation project, which includes the ultra 

luxurious 220 sq m Clarins Institute and Day Spa, which 

offers stone therapy, massage, and lymphatic drainage. 

Our hotel also offers other unique features that we are 

proud of and that set us apart from other upscale hotels 

in Switzerland. For instance, New-York based designer 

Tony Chi has given his own personal touch to the hotel’s 

ground floor and the first floor public areas.” 

Exceptional facilities for executive travellers 

For business visitors, the InterContinental Genève has 

16 newly renovated multifunction meeting rooms which 

can be adapted for any sort of event and are equipped 

with cutting-edge technologies. A large exposition space 

and the Grand Ballroom complete the hotel’s meeting 

facilities, all of which are easily accessible. 

Other services for executive travellers include executive 

suites, a fully staffed business centre with secretarial 

services, high-speed Internet and WiFi access, personal 

computers available for guests’ use, a technical 

concierge to sort out any technical issues, mobile 

telephone rental, and much more. 

Upscale spa services 

To unwind, guests can pamper themselves in the Spa 

by Clarins at InterContinental, with its Zen-like atmosphere 

and views of Mont-Blanc. The ultimate antidote 

46


to stress, the spa blends aromatherapy and phototherapy 

into an extensive menu of treatments for the face 

and body. Clarins, renowned for more than 50 years for 

luxury beauty treatments and now the number one body 

care brand in Europe, delivers unrivalled results. 

Guests can work out in the InterContinental’s state-ofthe-art 

fitness centre or take a swim in the hotel’s 20 

m heated outdoor pool, open from May till September. 

Tennis courts, a jogging trail, sailing on the lake, golf, 

and skiing are other options for active guests. 

Additional services include boutiques, a beauty salon, 

airline and car rental service, a tour desk, a travel agent, 

foreign currency exchange, dry cleaning, and more. 

Inventive food and beverage options 

The InterContinental Genève is well known among 

both locals and guests for its food and beverage options. 

The elegant Woods restaurant with its graceful wooden 

arch and wine cellar includes both a relaxed salon and a 

more formal dining room. Chef Didier Quesnel creates 

gourmet delicacies featuring seasonal ingredients. 

Les Nations bar is an elegant choice for drinks; it also has 

a large selection of books and a variety of magazines, and 

serves light lunches and snacks. Guests can relax on comfy 

leather couches and listen to live piano music as they enjoy 

their cocktails. O’Bar offers drinks around a fireplace as 

well as creative cocktails, light meals and snacks served 

all evening until the early hours of the morning and live 

music Wednesday to Saturday evenings. 

Ideal base for exploring Geneva area 

Guests at the InterContinental Genève learn to appreciate 

the city’s charms. Michel Perret points out, “Geneva 

has the best of both worlds. It is the most open canton 

in Switzerland with 45% of the population made up of 

expatriates. In addition, the best skiing is a very short 

drive away, and of course there are plenty of world fairs 

and expositions that take place in Geneva. Switzerland 

as a whole is ideally located in Europe as a destination 

for business or leisure travel, and in Geneva there is 

something to do year round, from skiing in the winter 

to festivals in the summer.” 

The InterContinental is the ideal base for exploring 

Geneva and its wealth of attractions for visitors. 

7-9 Chemin du Petit-Saconnex 

CH - 1211 Geneva 

Phone.: +41 (0) 22 9193939 

Fax: +41 (0) 22 9193838 

www.intercontinental.com 

47

• Basel Ranked Switzerland’s Fastest Growing Economy 

• Chamber of Commerce Helping to Bring Business to Basel 

• Global Capital of Life Sciences 


“We have seen the most market 

growth of all Swiss regions, which 

is especially impressive because 

Switzerland is already at such a 

high level” 

Christoph Brutschin, State Councillor for Economy for the 

Canton of Basel-Stadt


Basel Ranked Switzerland’s 

Fastest Growing Economy 

Basel has earned the distinction of being the Swiss region 

with the fastest growing economy for the past 15 years. 

Christoph Brutschin, State Councillor for Economy for 

the Canton of Basel-Stadt, explains, “We have seen 

the most market growth of all Swiss regions, which is 

especially impressive because Switzerland is already at 

such a high level. Typically, we have an average growth 

of some 3% to 4% per annum across growth cycles. 

Basel’s growth is generally double the Swiss average.” 

Basel is performing well even during the current 

global financial crisis, although it does not expect to 

register growth this year, its growth rate is just marginally 

negative, unlike in other Swiss regions and in 

other countries. 

According to Christoph Brutschin, Basel’s stellar 

economic performance is primarily the result of its 

thriving life sciences sector. Banking and finance 

make up Basel-Stadt’s second biggest sector, followed 

by logistics, including its ports and airport activities. 

An additional plus for Basel is that “new technologybased 

sectors such as nanotechnology emerge due to 

the strong industrial base and the deep technological 

know-how in the region,” the State Councillor says. 

The Canton of Basel-Stadt owns or has major stakes 

in the Basler Kantonalbank, the Port of Switzerland, 

the local utility, MCH Group (formerly MCH Swiss 

Exhibition), universities and hospitals, mostly giving 

autonomy to these organisations to ensure maximum 

efficiency. 

Providing support for local companies 

The cantonal government places a high priority on 

supporting the local private sector through attractive 

framework conditions, mixed office/lab space 

for start-ups and support for an effective knowledge 

transfer between companies and universities. Government 

is committed to being responsive to local enterprises 

and is keen to discuss key issues directly with 

CEOs and other managers. 

Christoph Brutschin, State Councillor for Economy for the Canton of 

Basel-Stadt 

The canton can also broker building space for companies 

looking to enlarge their operations. “Many companies 

based here are currently expanding, which shows that 

they believe in the future and capabilities of the Canton 

of Basel-Stadt. There is a pool of expertise and know-how 

present in the canton, which gives high-tech companies 

more added value than any financial incentives we could 

provide,” Christoph Brutschin says. 

Two major private sector investors in Basel are Roche 

and Novartis, both of which are currently expanding and 

upgrading their headquarters and centres for research 

and development in Basel. As Christoph Brutschin 

points out, these well-established and other newly 

arrived investors are attracted by Basel’s very highly 

skilled workforce, international environment, strategic 

location and value added attractions for business. 

Christoph Brutschin welcomes contacts with business 

leaders looking into opportunities in this dynamic Swiss 

canton. 

49

SWITZERLAND 

Basel Airport 

Chamber of Commerce Helping to 

Bring Business to Basel 

The Basel Chamber of Commerce is playing a key role in 

enhancing the city’s attractiveness as a business base. 

Now with more than 2,000 members, which include over 

800 enterprises, the chamber covers the cantons of Basel- 

Basel-Stadt and Basel-Landschaft. 

Dr. Thomas Staehelin, President, explains, “We have 

three main missions: to help stimulate the flow of 

exports from the region, to provide our members with 

services, and to enhance the local business environment 

so that it fulfils the needs of corporations based here 

in the Basel area. We work to enhance the tax climate 

and to promote a healthy cultural and business environment. 

We also serve as the intermediary between 

the government and the local private sector.” He adds 

that one of the chamber’s main challenges is to ensure 

government support for business in Basel. 

Basel is rated Switzerland’s second most important 

business location and the country’s third most attractive 

base for business. The top three economic sectors 

in and around Basel are life sciences, finance, and 

logistics. As Dr. Thomas Staehelin points out, “We have 

an exemplary life sciences sector here in Basel, with 

many research institutions and companies which are 

prominent in their fields.” 

Hub for business between France and 

Germany 

The cantons of Basel also enjoy a very strategic location 

which offers Switzerland’s only access to the sea via river 

transport as well as easy access to France and Germany 

since Basel is on the border between France and 

Germany. In addition, since it is a bilingual area, Basel 

has developed an important role as a hub for business 

connections between Germany and France. “Along 

with all these attractions, our work force is extremely 

skilled and we have great compatibility with the EU, 

thanks to the region’s bilingualism and our busy international 

airport,” Dr. Thomas Staehelin says. 

The Basel Chamber of Commerce welcomes the 

chance to form more partnerships with international 

companies, particularly ones involved in exportoriented 

activities. Dr. Thomas Staehelin points 

out, “People go to Berne for politics and Zurich for 

financial services, and Basel has its thriving business 

activities. We work together with the government and 

the private sector on a number of initiatives and we 

are committed to maintaining a business-friendly 

atmosphere.” The Basel Chamber offers a wide range 

of services to its members and hopes to attract more 

member companies which can add value to Basel and 

its region. 

50


Basel: Global Capital of Life 

Sciences 

Basel is a global hub for the life 

sciences sector, with industry 

leaders in pharmaceuticals, 

medical devices and other life 

sciences activities clustered in the 

Basel area. Such multinationals 

as Roche and Novartis have 

chosen Basel not only for the city’s 

business-friendly environment, 

strategic location, high quality of 

life and well-developed infrastructure 

but also for its unique trinational 

character; it lies on the 

borders of France and Germany 

and has close ties to businesses 

and research centres in both 

countries. 

Dr. Carlo Conti, the Canton 

of Basel’s State Councillor 

for Health, explains, “Two of 

the biggest pharmaceuticals 

companies in the world have their 

research centres in Basel, and 

we have many smaller biotech 

companies as well. If investors 

are thinking about where to 

invest in life sciences, Basel is 

the place. Basel is the bridge to 

Switzerland thanks to our multilingualism 

and openness to other 

cultures. People in this region 

are very open to joining the EU, 

for example.” Basel’s healthcare 

sector is one example of its 

internationalism. Around 9% of 

patients in the city’s University 

Hospital are from abroad, and 

Basel has signed an agreement 

with Germany to provide crossborder 

healthcare services. 

Advanced life sciences 

research and superior 

medical services 

“Basel has Europe’s highest 

percentage of graduates in life 

sciences, as well as advanced 

research facilities linked to University 

Hospital,” Dr. Carlo Conti 

points out. This unique strength 

makes Basel the ideal location for 

chemical trials as well as medical 

research, for example in nanotechnologies 

and clinical morphology. 

Basel’s political stability, businessfriendly 

government and internationalism 

make it an ideal base for 

business, and Basel is also a key 

source of exports in life sciences, 

mainly to the EU and the US but 

also to other markets, including 

Japan. “We welcome more 

investors, and we will make sure 

they have the right kind of environment 

to grow and succeed here. 

Basel is also an excellent place for 

families,” Dr. Carlo Conti says. He 

adds that Basel’s thriving economy, 

which is not focused on the 

financial sector, has cushioned it 

from the worst effects of the global 

financial crisis. He concludes, “No 

other place in the world has such a 

high level of life sciences research 

across three countries as well as 

exceptional life sciences services. 

Basel truly has an open mind and 

is ready to be part of the Europe of 

the future.” 

51

SWITZERLAND 

Basel: Life Sciences Hub 

Basel has grown to become Europe’s life sciences hub, 

home to some of the world’s most successful pharmaceuticals 

giants as well as smaller enterprises in the pharmaceuticals, 

chemicals and biotechnology industries which 

are providing a wide range of products and services. 

Basel is the hub of the BioValley region, which now has 

over 900 life sciences companies. 

Basel’s advantages as a life sciences centre are its 

long history of achievement in life sciences; a supportive 

business environment; high quality of life; 

well-established research and development activities 

in life sciences; exceptional human resources; and a 

strategic location bordering Germany and France. 

The nonprofit BioValley Basel organisation works to 

promote the local life sciences sector and to provide 

networking opportunities. According to BioValley 

Basel, around one in ten employees in the Basel 

region is employed in the life sciences sector, whether 

as a researcher, technician, lawyer, manager, bus 

driver, plant worker, university professor or student. 

Around 1,000 to 2,000 new jobs are created in the 

local life sciences sector every year, and life sciences 

companies in the Basel area achieve a combined 

annual turnover of over €75.2 billion. 

Global giants Novartis and Roche based in 

Basel 

One of the prominent leaders in Basel’s life sciences 

sector is Novartis, founded and based in Basel and 

now the third largest pharmaceuticals company in the 

world. Novartis employs 12,000 people in Switzerland 

and generates more than 40,000 related jobs, mainly 

in the Canton of Basel. 

Daniel Vasella, Chairman and CEO, notes that the 

Basel area is becoming increasingly important as 

a hub for pharmaceuticals research and development. 

Novartis opened its state-of-the-art Novartis 

Campus in Basel as a means of encouraging further 

groundbreaking R&D. The Novartis mission statement 

explains, “Novartis is designing our global 

headquarters in Basel, Switzerland, as an inspiring 

environment that fosters innovation and business 

excellence.” In 2008 alone, Novartis boosted its R&D 

budget by 12% to reach €5.41 billion, one of the 

highest R&D investments relative to sales (over 17%) 

in the industry. Novartis was created in 1996 through 

the merger of Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz; the original 

Ciba, Geigy and Sandoz were all founded in Basel. 

Roche, founded in Basel in 1896 by young entrepreneur 

Fritz Hoffmann-La Roche, has grown to become 

a multinational pharmaceuticals enterprise known for 

the pioneering role it plays in healthcare. An innovator 

of products and services for the early detection, prevention, 

diagnosis and treatment of many diseases, 

Roche’s mission is to create added value in healthcare 

by focusing on its expertise in diagnostics and 

pharmaceuticals. 

Roche is the world leader in in-vitro diagnostics and 

in drugs for cancer, transplants and other conditions. 

Roche employs over 80,000 people in 150 countries. In 

Basel, Roche employs around 1,200 highly skilled professionals 

in its Basel Pharma Research Centre, which 

focuses its research on the central nervous system as 

well as on metabolic and vascular diseases, especially 

on type two diabetes, which the World Health Organisation 

ranks as one of the most challenging health 

problems of the 21st century. The focus of the centre’s 

research on the central nervous system is on Alzheimer’s 

disease and depression, two diseases which affect 

millions of patients. Schizophrenia and anxiety are 

additional fields of scientific focus. 

Dynamic local players 

Basel’s life sciences sector benefits from close ties 

between research facilities and business. The University 

of Basel’s Life Sciences Training Facility (LSTF) is 

dedicated to the study of DNA and RNA at the level 

of the entire genome, and for seven years the LSTF 

has been providing to the research community access 

and training to an Affymetrix platform and related 

instrumentation and software. LSTF has recently 

implemented the latest Affymetrix GeneChip technology 

for genome-wide genotyping (SNP 500K and 6.0 

Arrays) and gene expression (Gene-level and Exonlevel 

Arrays). 

Small and medium-sized companies dominate Basel’s 

life sciences sector. As Martin Neff, Head of Economic 

Research at Credit Suisse, points out, “The life sciences 

sector is firmly in the hands of small and medium-sized 

companies. Even though Novartis and Roche together 

52


obviously have by far the most employees, over 90% of 

Basel’s life sciences companies are SMEs. And, when 

put together, the value of these for the region is not to 

be underestimated.” 

One local success story is Sovias AG, which is well 

known for its innovative scientific and technical 

services for customers in the chemicals and pharmaceuticals 

industries. The company aims to open new 

offices in the Canton of Basel (in Kaiseraugst) this 

year. 

The Life Sciences Network Basel organises networking 

events for professionals in local life sciences companies; 

a recent event focused on mergers and acquisitions 

in the pharmaceuticals industry. For life sciences 

companies and the professionals who work for them, 

the Canton of Basel is the ideal base for business. 

53

SWITZERLAND 

Polyphor Ltd 

PEM - a New Class of Drugs 

Polyphor is a Swiss biotech company 

providing innovative products 

with high therapeutic benefit to 

the patient and high quality drug 

discovery support to its pharmaceutical 

industry partners. 

Innovation in drug discovery 

In the 13 years since its foundation, 

Polyphor has established a solid track 

record of innovative contributions to 

drug discovery using its proprietary 

Protein Epitope Mimetics (PEM) 

Technology. PEM Technology allows 

Polyphor to discover fully synthetic 

“PEMdrugs” with powerful therapeutic 

effects. Most recently, Polyphor 

demonstrated the power of its PEM 

Technology through the discovery of a 

whole new class of antibiotics – a once 

in 20 years scientific achievement! 

Protein Epitope Mimetics 

(PEM) – a new class of drugs 

• PEM are medium-sized , fully 

synthetic, structurally well-defined 

molecules 

• PEM modulate protein-protein 

interactions very effectively and in 

a highly selective manner 

• PEM Technology enables efficient 

optimisation of the pharmacological 

properties of PEMdrugs 

• Straightforward, highly automated 

production at reasonable costs 

PEMdrugs are functional 

minimisations of proteins 

Polyphor has validated its PEM Technology 

multiple times. PEMdrugs 

have been shown to interfere with 

complex protein-protein interactions 

in a highly selective way. Polyphor’s 

most advanced candidate POL6326, 

currently in clinical Phase II trials, 

demonstrates that PEM Technology 

can provide drugs that are safe and 

efficacious in man. 

PEMdrug pipeline 

POL6326 – a very potent, versatile and 

well-tolerated CXCR4 inhibitor 

POL6326 is currently in Phase 

II clinical studies for blood stem 

cell transplantation. It has further 

potential in the treatment of leukemia 

patients and tissue repair (e.g. inflammation, 

heart attack, renal failure, 

diabetes) and in the treatment of 

asthma. 

POL7080 – a highly selective antibiotic 

using a novel mechanism of action 

POL7080 is an antibiotic PEMdrug 

candidate poised to enter the clinic 

that acts against the dangerous multidrug 

resistant strains of Pseudomonas 

aeruginosa. 

POL6014 – a highly selective protease 

inhibitor targeted to pulmonary delivery 

POL6014 is a highly potent and 

selective inhibitor of the enzyme 

elastase. It has been optimised to treat 

pulmonary diseases such as Chronic 

Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, primarily 

associated with cigarette smoking. 

It can be administered to the lungs 

while systemic exposure remains low. 

PEMfinder ® collaborations with 

partners in the pharmaceutical 

industry 

Polyphor offers its pharma partners 

access to PEM Technology through 

PEMfinder ® collaborations. In this 

way, partners can exclusively select the 

therapeutic targets to which PEM Technology 

will be applied. Co-founder 

and CEO, Dr. Jean-Pierre Obrecht 

notes that “such PEMfinder ® collaborations 

are an ideal starting point for 

more strategic alliances which allow us 

to broadly and rapidly exploit the full 

potential of PEM Technology.” 

Globally connected and headquartered 

in Allschwil/Basel 

Polyphor is an internationally focused 

biotech company that has established 

a wide network of partnerships with 

pharma companies, CROs and universities 

in Europe, the USA and 

Japan. Headquartered in Allschwil, 

near Basel, Polyphor is located within 

one of Europe’s most dynamic and 

outward looking life science clusters. 

Dr. Jean-Pierre Obrecht emphasizes, 

“Polyphor has selected Allschwil 

as home base because the location 

provides an excellent environment for 

drug discovery. Supportive authorities, 

access to a rich pool of skilled scientists 

and high quality of life attract biotech 

startups and global players alike.” 

Further expansion in Basel 

In 2008, Polyphor combined all of 

its operations into a new research 

building, which was built to Polyphor’s 

specific needs and which provides 

room for further expansion. Polyphor 

plans to further develop and 

strengthen its home base in Basel and 

to expand the portfolio of PEMdrug 

candidates, both on its own and 

together with its Pharma partners. 

Hegenheimermattweg 125 

CH- 4123 Allschwil 

Phone: + 41 61 567 16 00 - Fax: + 41 61 567 16 01 

www.polyphor.com 

54

Rhine bank 

Key Transport and 

Logistics Hub 

Basel has become a top logistics hub thanks to its strategic 

location linking Switzerland, France and Germany and 

its exceptional multimodal transport infrastructure. 

Hans-Peter Wessels, Councillor of State for Transport 

and Construction for the Canton of Basel, explains, 

“Despite its small physical area, the canton of Basel 

has been Switzerland’s most rapidly growing canton for 

the past 10 years, and for the most part this is due to 

its strong infrastructure and strategic location along 

the Rhine River. Around 13% of Switzerland’s export 

revenues are from shipments passing through Basel on 

the Rhine, thus making this canton, and its transport 

industry in particular, critical for the future development 

of Switzerland as a whole.” 

55

SWITZERLAND 

Shipping on the Rhine 

The Port of Basel handles around 3 million tons of 

petroleum product imports per year and around 1.5 

million tons of iron and steel products, as well as liquid 

bulk cargo, agricultural products, powder and granulates, 

food concentrates, raw building materials, gravel 

and sand, machine parts, and oversized goods such as 

ships and vehicles. The port offers modern multimodal 

facilities (including storage facilities for all types 

of products) and has speedy connections to water, rail, 

air and road networks. As Hans-Peter Wessels points 

out, “The Port of Basel is a hub of diverse investment 

and economic activity, and the canton plans to 

expand the port to further enhance connections for 

key logistics companies and investors.” 

Unique tri national airport 

Basel also offers access to Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg 

International Airport (EuroAirport), which is located 

on French soil around 4 km from Basel and operated 

jointly by Switzerland, France and Germany, all of 

which have access to the airport without any customs 

or border restrictions. The airport handles over 4.2 

million passengers and 107,000 tons of freight per 

year and has become a key transport centre for such 

diverse cargo as chemicals and pharmaceuticals, high 

tech products, automobile parts and perishable goods. 

The airport’s cargo handling area has the capacity to 

handle 150,000 tonnes of freight per year. 

EuroAirport aims to expand to keep up with growing 

demand. The new development will be accessible 

by both French and Swiss road networks and will 

have a Franco-Swiss customs office. The expansion 

will enhance the airport’s attractions as a base for 

transport and logistics firms; 70 logistics companies 

already operate there, including four express mail/ 

parcel services and three airline assistance agents. 

Hub of major rail lines and road corridors 

Basel is also a key European hub for road and rail 

transport. The German, French and Swiss motorway 

systems link up in Basel, and commercial vehicles can 

be loaded onto trains at the Basel border to travel 

across Switzerland on the ‘rolling highway’. 

Basel is also on the major railway line between Paris 

and Zurich, and is the most important rail junction in 

the Jura region and one of the busiest in Europe. The 

inauguration of the TGV Est Européen (high speed 

Eastern European train line) in mid 2007 slashed 

travel times by rail between Basel and Paris, Zurich, 

Frankfurt and Munich. 

Basel is also located on the Antwerp/Basel-Lyon 

rail freight corridor (European Corridor C), which 

passes through Belgium, Luxembourg, France and 

Switzerland to link Antwerp, one of Europe’s largest 

ports, to leading European industrial centres. The 

European Commission’s objectives for this corridor 

are to increase the volume transported by 55% by 

2020, with a reduction in transport time of 15%. The 

EC’s goal is to encourage shippers to choose rail 

rather than road transport on this busy route. 

Basel also has a good, convenient and affordable 

public transportation system and has projects in the 

works to upgrade and expand its parking facilities. 

Hans-Peter Wessels says that his goal is “to improve 

possibilities for parking in the city for inhabitants, 

visitors, clients and businesses.” Around 10,000 

un-marked parking spaces will be transformed into 

marked and regulated parking to “bring about 

improvements in business activities and employment,” 

he says. 

Supportive environment for logistics 

companies 

Many international logistics firms have operations in 

Basel. Major logistics enterprise Agility, for example, 

transferred its European headquarters to Basel to 

take advantage of the canton’s highly supportive 

business environment as well as its exceptional infrastructure. 

Basel offers a pro-business government, 

skilled human resources, and a well-established 

cluster of transport and logistics services providers, 

and exceptional quality of life. 

As Hans-Peter Wessels points out, “What makes Basel 

a special area is its international appeal. Basel is 

adjacent to France and Germany, and a very significant 

portion of its working population is composed 

of immigrants who add to the canton’s cultural and 

business diversity. Basel has a very open culture that 

is receptive to new people and new ideas, and this 

has been one of the contributing factors towards its 

rapid growth.” As a base for transport and logistics 

companies, Basel – Europe’s logistics hub – has it all. 

56


Agility 

Basel – Logistics Hub for Europe 

Agility, a global logistics enterprise, chooses Basel as 

its European Headquarters. Located in the heart of 

Europe, the region offers excellent access to everything 

a logistics company requires. 

The global provider of world-class logistics services established 

its European headquarters in Basel and is very 

pleased with its decision. Beat Simon, CEO of Agility 

Europe, explains, “We couldn’t be happier with the 

cantonal authorities and the support they have given us 

here in Basel. Basel has a long tradition of being home to 

the logistics sector; there is immense industry know-how 

and talent available in the region from which we can profit. 

Basel is a prime logistics location within Europe.” 

The company’s mission is to serve as a leading global 

provider of integrated logistics, bringing efficiency to 

business and government supply chains in some of 

the world’s most challenging environments. Agility 

contains two dynamic business groups: global integrated 

logistics and defence and government services. 

Beat Simon, CEO Europe 

Diverse portfolio of products and services 

Agility offers air, sea, contract logistics and road freight 

services as well as a combined sea and air freight package, 

which allows clients to benefit from the time savings of air 

transport and the cost savings of shipping. Consulting for 

integrated supply chain solutions is also part of its service 

portfolio. “To us, logistics is much more than transport 

services. We offer to leverage the hidden potential in our 

customers’ supply chains,” Beat Simon says. 

The company has launched extensive corporate social 

responsibility and sustainability initiatives. “We believe 

that good corporate citizenship is a long-term investment 

in the future of our business, our society, and our 

planet,” says Beat Simon 

Agility now has 37,000 employees in over 120 countries, 

grown both organically and through mergers with 

companies that have been in the logistics business for 

over 100 years. Beat Simon explains, “Agility focuses 

on an individual customer approach and personal 

service, on in-depth local knowledge of the markets 

and industries and on navigating investment risks 

together with our clients. Europe is an integral part of 

a worldwide network with special focus on emerging 

markets.” 

In Basel, Agility partners with local schools and offers 

internships to qualified students. “These programs are 

providing added value to the entire industry and the 

region, which secures its future prospects,” Beat Simon 

points out. “Agility believes in the future development of 

Basel-Stadt, which invests significantly in its attractiveness 

for our industry. It is a politically and economically stable 

environment that offers highest quality of life. This makes 

us feel confident – in business and in private life.” 

St. Jakobs-Strasse 220 - 4002 Basel, Switzerland 

Phone: + 41 (0) 61 316 51 51 

www.agilitylogistics.com 

57

• Switzerland’s Economic Powerhouse 

• Zurich Chamber of Commerce Confident about Canton’s Future 

• Life Sciences Fastest Growing Economic Sector 


“Zurich is one of Europe’s foremost 

financial locations, and is home 

to many large international 

concerns and firms” 

Regine Aeppli, President of the Government 

Council of the Canton of Zurich

Winterthur Churches in Zurich 

Zurich Chamber of Commerce 

Confident about Canton’s Future 

The Zurich Chamber of Commerce plays a major role 

in the life of the canton of Zurich. In addition to 

providing a forum for business leaders in the canton, 

the Chamber also handles many other issues, including 

three upcoming referendums concerning airport noise. 

The Chamber also serves as an essential liaison between 

the government and the private sector. Dr. Lukas 

Briner, Director, says, “The Swiss believe that a relatively 

marginal role of government intervention is the key to 

a progressive country, for example one which will be 

able to emerge from the current global financial crisis 

with a healthy economy. However, we are working to 

provide a network of companies within the cantonal 

government to further facilitate the spread of information 

and innovation in Switzerland. In addition, we 

work as a medium for arbitrage in which we mediate 

conflicts between the private sector and the government 

through serving as an intermediary.” 

Well prepared to cope with financial crisis 

Concerning the effects of the financial crisis on the 

canton of Zurich, Dr. Lukas Briner says that Switzerland 

in general and Zurich in particular had 

prepared the necessary fundamentals for surmounting 

challenges like the current crisis. He explains, 

“No doubt the local economy is weaker due to the 

influence of the crisis, but we are still quite strong. 

Beginning in the late 1990s, there was a lot of innovation 

and restructuring of industry within Switzerland 

and this has prepared us well to adapt to the onset of 

economic challenges. When the crisis hit us, Switzerland’s 

economy was at a very strong level, which has 

been very fortunate for us.” 

The Chamber of Commerce aims to help reinforce Switzerland’s 

international reputation as an ideal base for 

business. Dr. Lukas Briner says, “It is important for Switzerland 

to be acknowledged and recognised for what it 

really is. Contrary to some media reports, it is not a tax 

haven for criminal interests! We have been abiding by 

the same laws since the end of the Second World War, 

and have a proud, longstanding tradition of consistent 

moral codes and a very stable political system.” 

The Chamber of Commerce is very confident about the 

future of Switzerland and the future of the canton of 

Zurich. Dr. Lukas Briner says, “Switzerland is committed 

to trying to differentiate itself and remain internationally 

competitive by focusing on its high level of progression 

and development.” 

59

SWITZERLAND 

Canton of Zurich: Switzerland’s 

Economic Powerhouse 

The Canton of Zurich is a key driver of Switzerland’s 

economy, and the city of Zurich, although relatively small 

by global standards, is Switzerland’s biggest city as well as 

the canton’s economic and cultural centre. Around two 

million people live in the canton, representing one quarter 

of Switzerland’s total population. The Canton of Zurich 

is made up of 171 communes divided into 13 districts, all 

governed by a 180-member Cantonal Parliament. 

Economic success story 

Factors that have contributed to the Canton of Zurich’s 

economic success are favourable conditions for 

companies; moderate taxes which are among the lowest 

in Europe; a highly qualified local workforce; exceptional 

transport infrastructure; speedy local, regional 

and international travel connections (including 

the world’s densest public transport network); and 

excellent quality of life. 

Internationally renowned universities (including 

the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, the 

University of Zurich and the Zurich University of 

Applied Sciences Winterthur) are further advantages. 

Companies located in Zurich can also benefit from 

clusters of dynamic companies in the financial services, 

life sciences, and information and communications 

technology sectors, among others. 

Much more than financial services 

Zurich is particularly well known for its financial 

services, and has combined tradition and innovation 

in keeping the local financial sector strong in spite 

of the global crisis. Other leading sectors include life 

sciences, a relative newcomer to the canton which is 

already thriving, particularly concerning medical technology. 

The Zurich area is also developing a reputation 

for its innovative companies producing high-tech 

niche products, for example in the automotive and 

space industries. Creative activities are also developing 

rapidly in Zurich and now employ more than 53,000 

people and generate annual turnover of more than 

€11.5 billion. 

President cites canton’s research strengths 

Commenting on the canton’s economic success, Regine 

Aeppli, President of the Government Council of the 

Canton of Zurich, explains, “Zurich is one of Europe’s 

foremost financial locations, and is home to many large 

international concerns and firms. Within Switzerland, 

Zurich is considered an economic motor, and it is an 

internationally renowned centre for academic research. 

Private research centres have also established themselves 

here – for example, the IBM Research Laboratory in 

Rüschlikon, the Microsoft Development Centre, and the 

European research laboratory of the Internet company 

Google. The synergy between research and commerce 

attracts a great deal of young talent and expertise from 

all over the world.” 

Companies which have chosen Zurich for their international 

headquarters include Baxter Healthcare, Cititrust 

(Switzerland), Dow Europe, General Motors Europe, 

H.B. Fuller Europe, IBM Zurich Research Laboratory, 

Hewlett-Packard International, Millenium Biologix, XL 

Insurance Global Risk, Kraft Europe, Vasco Data Security 

and many others. 

Mayor focusing on sustainability 

Zurich continues to diversify its economy. Corine Mauch, 

Mayor of the city of Zurich since March 2009, strongly 

supports Zurich’s sustainability efforts and welcomes 

the support for climate change which local citizens have 

demonstrated. She says, “Zurich voters have anchored 

sustainability in the city constitution. It is an obligation 

for us to develop our city in a sustainable way. We 

must also diversify our economy and strengthen sectors 

other than the predominant financial industry. Life 

sciences and ‘Clean Tech’ are two clusters with future 

potential.” 

The mayor points out proudly that Zurich reduced its 

carbon emissions by 8.3% between 1990 and 2006, and 

its citizens have voted to reduce their emissions from 

six tonnes per person in 1990 to one tonne per person 

in 2050. Not surprisingly, Zurich has been awarded the 

gold standard in the European Energy Awards for the 

past several years. 

60

Town centre Zurich 

Mayor Mauch emphasizes Zurich’s EU ties. She says, 

“Joining the EU will be the right thing to do. We are 

situated in the very heart of Europe. We exchange 

60% of our exports and 80% of our imports with EU 

countries. Global issues like the impact of climate 

change or migration across borders affect Switzerland 

and the EU alike and cannot be approached by a single 

nation. Switzerland and the EU have a lot to offer to 

each other. To be the odd one out would put us at a 

growing disadvantage.” 

Cultural hub 

Zurich is not only a business centre but is also known for 

its lively cultural scene and international population. As 

Regine Aeppli explains, “Google alone employs people 

from 40 nations here in Zurich. In fact, every fourth 

inhabitant in the Zurich area comes from another 

country.” 

The city of Zurich has many theatres, museums, art 

galleries, cinemas, concerts, exhibitions, clubs and restaurants, 

and is within easy access of areas of great natural 

beauty. Mercer International Inc. publishes regular 

quality-of-life reports on the world’s cities, and has rated 

Zurich number one several years in a row. The rating 

is based on such factors as employment, housing, recreational 

facilities, education, personal safety, transport 

and medical care, and in all of these and more, Zurich 

is a winner. 

61

SWITZERLAND 

Life Sciences 

Fastest Growing 

Economic Sector 

The life sciences sector is the fastest growing economic 

sector in the Canton of Zurich, which has already earned 

a reputation as one of the leading life science centres in 

Europe. It is the base in Switzerland of global pharmaceuticals 

leader Pfizer and of many other prominent life 

sciences enterprises. 

Dr. Thomas Heiniger, the canton’s State Councillor 

for Health, explains, “The life sciences cluster in the 

canton of Zurich strongly works to support innovation 

and further the development of this important sector 

within Switzerland. Zurich’s life science sector has been 

growing by more than 4% a year, and the cantonal 

State Council for Health in Zurich, along with the city’s 

Executive Council, is working hard to attract international 

businesses into our thriving healthcare and life 

sciences activities.” 

62


Incubator within Zurich’s Biotech Centre offers strong 

support for start-ups. 

Life Science Zurich project launched in 2001 

Factors behind success 

The success of the Canton of Zurich’s life sciences sector 

derives from a number of factors. These include strong 

government support, a tradition of innovation, exceptional 

research and educational institutions, a highly developed 

healthcare sector, a tradition of close co-operation between 

research centres and the business sector, a strategic location 

in the heart of Europe and very high quality of life. 

There are now more than 400 life sciences companies and 

institutes in the Greater Zurich Area, and more than 3,500 

researchers in life sciences are employed there. In addition, 

the Zurich Mednet project brings together local and international 

medical and biotech companies, universities, 

technical colleges and technology transfer institutions. 

Zurich’s universities have produced 22 Nobel Prize winners 

(three Nobel Prize winners still teach in the canton), and 

Zurich is particularly known for its innovations in life 

sciences. In 1977, at Zurich University Hospital, a balloon 

catheter was used for the first time in the treatment of a 

heart patient. This Zurich invention is now used worldwide 

on over a million patients every year. In the private sector, 

the Zurich firm Prionics developed a quick test to detect BSE 

(mad-cow disease), and between 2001 and 2003 Prionics test 

kits were used to test more than 18 million of the 30 million 

cows tested for BSE. 

Local firms such as Centerpulse, Phonak, Nobel Biocare, 

Tecan, Millenium Biologix and Biotronic all research, 

develop and manufacture in the Canton of Zurich, 

producing a range of cutting-edge items. 

Very successful biotechnology start-ups in Zurich include 

Cytos, Prionics, EsbaTECH, Glycart and The Genetics 

Company. One advantage new biotech companies in Zurich 

have is the city’s strong financial services sector. Companies 

in the Canton of Zurich have access to the funds required 

for all phases of company development, including obtaining 

seed and venture capital. In addition, the Life Science 

Key drivers in Zurich’s life sciences sector are the University 

of Zurich and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology 

in Zurich (ETHZ), both of which are known for their 

stellar research activities. To spur on the development of 

the canton’s life sciences sector and enhance networking 

opportunities, the two institutions joined forces to launch 

the Life Science Zurich project in 2001. More than 90 institutes 

within the university (including the University Hospital 

of Zurich) and ETHZ as well as other life sciences organisations 

are working together in this innovative project. 

Strengthening ties between research centres and 

business 

Ensuring close ties between local research activities and 

the business sector is a top priority for Zurich’s life sciences 

leaders. As the mission statement of Life Science Zurich 

points out, “Research results from the University or the 

ETHZ that have economic potential should be economically 

exploited to the extent that this is possible. When there 

is an active partnership between science and the economy, 

ultimately both benefit.” The nonprofit Life Science Zurich 

Biotechnology Network helps to forge links between 

researchers and life sciences companies. 

The technology transfer services Unitectra und ETH- 

Transfer offer researchers comprehensive services in the 

entire process of economic conversion of research results, 

including arranging contracts with private economic 

partners (cooperation contracts, licenses) and ensuring the 

protection of intellectual property, for example in the form 

of patents. 

Support for spin-off companies 

In addition, they support the founding of spin-off 

companies based on local R&D. As Life Science Zurich 

points out, “Founders of a spin-off company have a head 

start in know-how that can be transformed into a market 

advantage, resulting in competitive products and services 

for which there is a demand.” Such spin-off companies can 

count on financial, infrastructural and consulting support 

during their first year of operations. 

The cantonal government actively encourages productive 

public-private partnerships in the life sciences sector. “We 

believe that Zurich’s life sciences sector will be internationally 

competitive very quickly and we welcome more international 

investment in this sector,” Dr. Thomas Heiniger 

concludes. 

63

SWITZERLAND 

Pfizer 

Global Pharmaceutical Leader Continues 

to Focus on Research and Development 

Pfizer is the world’s largest research-based biomedical 

and pharmaceutical company. Founded in 1849 

and now headquartered in New York, Pfizer achieved 

overall revenues of €37.3 billion (US$50 billion) * and 

spent €5.8 billion (US$7.8 billion) * on research and 

development in 2009. The Pfizer group is responsible 

for some of the most effective pharmaceutical products 

on the market today. Pfizer, which is listed on the New 

York, London, Euronext and Swiss stock exchanges, 

lives up to its motto, “Working together for a healthier 

world.” 

Commitment to bringing innovation to 

patients 

Pfizer’s recent innovations include a novel cancer 

medicine that both cuts off the blood supply that feeds 

tumors and destroys cellular reproduction, a new prescription 

medicine and accompanying support plan 

designed specifically to help smokers quit, as well as a 

medicine for neuropathic pain and anxiety disorders. 

Thanks to its focus on research and development and to 

its commitment to long-term strategies, Pfizer continues 

to bring innovative medicines onto the market. 

More than 150 pharmaceutical products in 


In Switzerland, Pfizer offers more than 150 pharmaceutical 

products for human beings and animals which play a 

key role in the country’s healthcare sector. Pfizer achieved 

almost €223 million(CHF320 million) * turnover in 2009 

and anticipates a rise to €279 million (CHF400 million) * 

in 2010 thanks to its acquisition of Wyeth. The combined 

company will create one of the most diversified enterprises 

in the global healthcare industry. 

Dr. Ralph Studer, Managing Director of Pfizer Switzerland, 

explains that at a time when many state healthcare 

Dr. Ralph Studer, Managing Director 

systems are encouraging people to switch to generic drugs, 

there will always be a place for high quality pharmaceuticals 

from reliable producers like Pfizer. He says, “The challenge 

we have now is to help people focus more on the value of 

health instead of the cost of drugs. There is some pressure 

on consumers to switch to cheaper drugs, but such drugs 

often do not offer the best protection for patients. This is 

where we have to start thinking broader to help the Swiss 

healthcare system become the best it can be.” 

Investing in long-term health 

Switzerland already has an impressive record in healthcare, 

with an average life expectancy of 73 years of full health. 

“Other countries cannot match this. We have to consider 

the value of investing in additional healthy years,” Dr. 

Ralph Studer says. This is especially true for diseases such 

as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease which will triple by 

2050 due to demographic changes. 

64


Pfizer Switzerland is based in the 

canton of Zurich, unlike many global 

pharmaceutical enterprises which 

chose Basel as their base in Switzerland. 

Explaining why Pfizer picked 

Zurich, Dr. Ralph Studer says, “Zurich 

is one of the world’s cities with the 

highest quality of life. With our 

European headquarter for the “Established 

Products”-part of the business 

located in Zurich, we profit from a 

high-level infrastructure, including 

close proximity to the airport 

(approximately 10 minutes) and 

many competitive advantages. Zurich 

is an exceptionally friendly environment 

for global companies. We have 

political stability here, with incredibly 

favorable working conditions. There 

are many positive points.” 

Support for local initiatives 

Pfizer Switzerland has formed a 

number of local alliances, including 

with the University of Zurich and its 

Pfizer research foundation has made 

major investments in local life sciences 

initiatives. “We have invested €3.3 

million (CHF4.75 million) * in award 

money for research achievements to 

date. We grant an annual award of 

€20,920 (CHF30,000) * up to €83,682 

(CHF120,000) * distributed to local 

scientists who are particularly innovative 

in their respective fields,” Dr. 

Ralph Studer points out. Pfizer Switzerland 

also supports the Swiss Heart 

Foundation. 

Partnering in research efforts 

Pfizer, both in Switzerland and 

worldwide, will continue to focus on 

research and development, both on 

its own and in partnership with other 

companies. Dr. Ralph Studer explains, 

“We build business development partnerships 

with other organisations 

to find innovative technologies and 

common ways of working together 

* 

Exchange rate by April, 2010: 1e=1.434 CHF; 1e=1.340 US$ 

and furthering research in all areas of 

life sciences.” 

Dr. Ralph Studer is very positive 

about Pfizer’s future. He notes that 

the company, both in Switzerland 

and worldwide, works closely with 

local authorities and has developed 

long-term strategies which continue 

to focus on innovation. He says, 

“We are committed to growth, and 

we are prepared for the future. In 

Switzerland we have one of the best 

healthcare systems, due to the development 

of drugs and innovation in 

the pharmaceutical industry, and 

also because of our significant investment 

in research and development of 

approximately €5.8 billion (US$7.8 

billion) * worldwide. This will allow us 

to continue to adapt to the industry’s 

ever evolving market.” 

Concerning the particular role Pfizer 

Switzerland will play in the coming 

years, Dr. Ralph Studer says, “Pfizer 

Pfizer Building © Eduard Hueber/archphoto.com 

has the commitment to put the 

patient and the customer in the centre 

of everything we do and to leverage 

on the knowledge and the synergies 

of all countries across Europe. We 

try to contribute with positive signals 

from Switzerland throughout the 

region. We believe in working with 

other leading sectors and institutions, 

because we know only by doing this we 

can truly prosper in the international 

community.” 

Pfizer AG 

Schärenmoosstrasse 99 

CH-8052 Zürich 


Tel. +41 (0)43 495 71 11 

Fax: +41 (0)43 495 72 80 

info.ch@pfizer.com 

www.pfizer.ch, www.pfizer.com 

65

SWITZERLAND 

Cutting-Edge ICT Sector Benefits 

from Local R&D 

The Canton of Zurich has become a highly sought after 

location for companies involved in knowledge and 

value creation, including ICT enterprises. International 

ICT leaders like Microsoft, IBM, Google, Cisco 

Systems, Siemens, Philips, Hewlett-Packard, T-Systems, 

Sony Overseas, Sun Microsystems and EDS are active 

in the greater Zurich area and benefit from the canton’s 

excellent business and research environment. 

Foreign investors will find a large pool of multilingual 

ICT professionals in the Canton of Zurich who are 

experienced in developing software and solutions for 

a wide range of industries, including for the control 

of manufacturing and automation equipment, mobile 

services, Internet services, banking and pharmaceutical 

applications, among others. Opportunities for 

investment in the canton’s ICT sector include research 

partnerships, establishing support and sales subsidiaries, 

and setting up international headquarters. 

Internationally renowned research and 

education institutes 

A major attraction of the Zurich area for ICT companies 

is the presence of internationally renowned research 

and education institutes which have a history of close 

collaboration with the business sector. Microsoft Switzerland 

partners with the prestigious Swiss Federal 

Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETHZ) in a 

research programme focusing on systems software and 

is currently funding seven projects, including one on 

boosting computer security and another on making 

super computers more portable. 

IBM has opened its wafer processing lab to a university 

research group in a project through which students test 

and refine the design of cutting-edge devices; IBM not 

only receives functioning prototypes but also access to 

a steady supply of trained engineers who can work with 

the newest technologies. 

In the fast-growing field of bioinformatics, ETHZ 

offers courses through an interdisciplinary program 

at its Institute of Computational Science. Zurich based 

researchers have developed a powerful new bioinformatics 

programming language known as DARWIN and 

are participating in BioOpera, an important component 

in grid computing for bioinformatics. Sun Microsystems 

has invested in ETHZ as a Centre of Excellence in biomedical 

research. 

At the University of Zurich, long time data archiving is 

the focus of a study for the Database Technology Group. 

ETHZ’s hyper-database research group and information 

and communication systems research group specialise 

in middleware systems and heterogeneous database 

systems, while the Computer Graphics Laboratory 

explores new fundamental methods for interactive 

image acquisition and generation, scientific visualisation, 

virtual reality and medical simulation. 

Global leaders choose Zurich 

The canton’s highly skilled, multilingual workforce is 

a key reason IBM has been operating its European 

research centre in the Zurich area on its own campus 

in Rüschlikon since 1962. The mission of the IBM 

Research Zurich lab is “to cultivate close relationships 

with academic and industrial partners, serve as one of 

the premier places to work for world-class researchers, 

promote women in IT and science, and to help 

drive Europe’s innovation agenda,” according to its 

mission statement. Employing a diverse multinational 

staff of highly qualified professionals, IBM Research 

Zurich is involved in many joint projects with universities 

throughout Europe, in research programs 

established by the EU and the Swiss government, and 

in co-operation agreements with research institutes of 

industrial partners. 

Google chose Zurich for its European R&D centre and 

opened its innovative new offices there in January 2008. 

The Zurich operation is Google’s biggest outside the 

US, covering some 12,000 sq m and employing over 

300 engineers of more than 40 different nationalities. 

Focuses of Google’s Zurich centre include product management 

and software engineering. Google’s Zurich 

based software engineers are developing next generation 

technologies and working on advanced informa- 

66


tion retrieval algorithms, massive scalability and storage 

solutions, and large scale applications that enrich the 

user experience, among other projects. 

An exciting development in Zurich’s ICT sector in 

recent years has been the increasing number of start-up 

companies involved in mobile communications, the 

integration of IT solutions, Internet services and applications, 

network security, encryption systems, bioinformatics, 

packaged software and more. Zurich’s ICT 

workers are employed in the banking, logistics transport, 

and automation sectors as well as in consulting firms 

that specialise in integrating software and networking 

solutions. 

Innovation and entrepreneurship 

Zurich’s ICT sector is known for innovation and 

entrepreneurship, and many of the canton’s ICT 

companies focus on supplying software to specialised 

niches. One example is EDS Corporation of Plano, 

Texas, which employs some 1,000 people in Switzerland 

and recently invested in a new Air Transportation 

Centre of Excellence in Zurich. This initiative 

supports the company’s global and regional growth 

strategy for its portfolio of applications development, 

maintenance and management services for airlines, 

airports and aircraft maintenance service providers. 

“The stable yet independent economy, excellent skill 

sets and favourable economic working conditions 

and regulations make Switzerland the perfect place 

to invest,” says Stefan Leser, EDS Vice-President and 

Managing Director Transportation. 

With its clusters of innovative ICT companies and invaluable 

support systems for ICT research and development, 

Zurich’s ICT sector is certain to remain on the 

cutting edge. 

67

SWITZERLAND 

Microsoft 

Global IT Leader Playing Key 

Role in Local Economy 

Microsoft has been present in Switzerland for 20 years, 

growing from a small office to a dynamic enterprise 

employing more than 500 people. In addition to marketing 

and selling Microsoft solutions, Microsoft Switzerland is 

involved in many local research projects and operates a 

development centre which focuses primarily on voice over 

IP technology. Microsoft Switzerland has been growing 

steadily with a two digit growth rate on average over the 

past years. 

Microsoft Switzerland works closely with local 

companies and government, including partnering 

with ETH Zurich and EPF Lausanne (the Swiss Federal 

Institute of Technology in Zurich and Lausanne) in a 

research programme focussing on embedded software. 

“We are currently funding seven projects, including 

one on increasing security on computer systems and 

one on making super computers more portable,” 

explains Peter Waser, Microsoft’s Country General 

Manager for Switzerland. 

The global Microsoft group has a policy of allowing 

country directors to develop locally relevant research 

and development programmes as well as investments. 

As Peter Waser points out, “This approach allows us to 

be as competitive as possible here in Switzerland.” 

Technology development and integration 

Microsoft Switzerland also follows Microsoft’s global 

strategy of concentrating on two types of innovation: 

developing new technologies and integrating them 

into new products. Peter Waser explains, “Microsoft 

is very strong in integrating technology into one 

very ‘natural’ interface. Without these two types of 

innovation working together, the computing and 

IT industries would not be able to progress and 

develop new products that would continue to serve 

communities and making them more efficient and 

productive.” 

In line with this focus on putting new technologies to 

use, Microsoft Switzerland is involved in programmes to 

help Swiss workers adapt to technological evolution. “If 

people cannot adapt to changing operating systems and 

new IT software, then we will not be able to progress. 

To meet this challenge, we are participating in several 

initiatives to build a platform that allows people to train 

themselves online concerning new developments in the 

digital world,” Peter Waser says. 

Peter Waser points out that Microsoft is playing an 

important role in the Swiss economy. He says, “We 

cooperate with local partners who make their business 

out of our products and solutions, and as a result we 

nurture 14,000 jobs in Switzerland in conjunction with 

the partners we are close to. One study found that every 

dollar invested by Microsoft in Switzerland generates 

8 dollars for our partners. Switzerland as a whole is a 

global leader in per capita investment in information 

technology.” 

Microsoft Schweiz GmbH 

Richtistrasse 3 

CH-8304 Wallisellen 


Phone: +41 (0)78 844 62 45 

www.microsoft.com 

68

Zurich 

Leisure and Cultural Attractions 

Help Ensure High Quality of Life 

Zurich, famous as a financial services hub, is also a 

dynamic cultural and tourism centre, and the Canton of 

Zurich’s tourism attractions are not only drawing visitors 

but also helping to ensure an enviable quality of life. 

Quality of life a determining factor 

As Willi Meier, CEO of the Greater Zurich Area, points 

out, “When a region is ranked one of the global leaders 

in ‘hard’ factors like favourable taxes, infrastructure 

and a supportive environment for business, ‘soft’ 

factors can often make the difference for companies 

choosing a location. For a company to be sure of 

attracting the best human resources, it must be able 

to guarantee an attractive quality of life.” Zurich has 

made sure it scores at the top of the “quality of life” list. 

In fact, Zurich has been ranked number one in quality 

of life for several years in a row in a study conducted by 

Mercer Human Resources. 

Zurich’s Old Town 

Most visitors begin their visit to the canton in the city 

of Zurich, whose Old Town (the Altstadtbummel) 

offers picturesque architecture as well as a wealth of 

trendy restaurants and boutiques. Other popular attractions 

include taking a cruise on the Limmat River or 

Lake Zurich, or basking in the sun in the popular beach 

resort of Strandbad Mythenquai on the lake. Käferberg 

Mountain, which offers a pleasant backdrop to much of 

the city, has walking trails and splendid panoramas. 

The city’s historic landmarks include Fraumünster 

Cathedral, which dominates the Münsterplatz, and the 

larger Grossmünster Cathedral across the Limmat River. 

Kyburg Castle (Schloss Kyburg), which dates back to the 

11th century, is now open for special exhibits. 

Natural beauty a plus 

Google is one international investor in Zurich whose 

employees are very happy with their company’s choice 

of location. Randy Knaflic, Head of Recruitment for 

Google in Zurich, says, “Going for a swim in the Limmat 

in the summer, riding my bike or hiking along the trails 

in Uetlibert, and admiring the Alps every morning 

when I get up: this is my daily life. Google is able to 

attract employees from all over the world here to Zurich 

thanks to the city’s quality of life.” Zurich’s attractions 

are pleasing both visitors and residents alike. 

69

SWITZERLAND 

Hotel zum Storchen 

Luxury Hotel Providing 

Exceptional Service Since 1357 

The Hotel zum Storchen on the banks of the Limmat 

River in the heart of Zurich has been renowned for its 

hospitality for 650 years. The luxurious property offers 

70 elegantly decorated rooms and suites and a wealth of 

special services. As General Manager Jörg Arnold points 

out, “Service and daily contact with our guests are very 

important in our hotel, which has been owned by the same 

family since 1938.” In fact, the zum Storchen concierge 

staff’s motto is ‘Making the impossible happen’. 

Why should visitors to Zurich choose the zum Storchen 

Jörg Arnold says, “We have an ideal location, including 

outstanding scenery. The zum Storchen is Zurich’s only 

hotel on the river, and it is the perfect base for exploring 

everything Zurich has to offer. In addition, the hotel 

has a special, understated style which our regular guests 

appreciate.” He adds that while Zurich is known as a 

business city, it also has a very lively cultural scene which 

includes a fantastic city opera. It is also a clean city with a 

manageable size and is known for its educational institutions. 

The zum Storchen is just a two-minute stroll from 

the famous Bahnhofstrasse, a 10-minute walk from the 

main train station and 20 minutes by car from Zurich’s 

international airport. It is near all Zurich’s cultural, 

business and shopping attractions. 

Focus on service and added value 

Service and added value differentiate the zum Storchen 

from other hotels. Jörg Arnold explains, “We try to 

create the most value we can for our guests. We do not 

cut prices but rather add more services. For example, 

70


we do not charge for late checkout 

and we have reduced fees for no 

shows by corporate customers. We 

never have blackout dates. We also 

communicate very well with our 

corporate customers, to whom we 

offer a special corporate rate which 

has not been increased this year.” 

The zum Storchen is named for a 

pair of rare black storks who nested 

on the roof of the hotel when it was 

new, back in 1357. During a storm, 

the storks’ nest was blown off the roof 

and a black egg was found on the 

pavement. It is now on display in the 

hotel’s lobby, and tradition says that it 

brings luck to all who touch it. Good 

luck is just the beginning of what the 

zum Storchen offers its guests. 

The hotel’s owners have invested some 

CHF 30 million over the past decade 

to maintain the highest possible 

standards of quality and service 

throughout the hotel. Jörg Arnold 

says, “zum Storchen will always have its 

market, because the hotel’s standards 

of quality are the highest. Our newly 

renovated rooms and suites, which 

are larger than the norm, will make 

the hotel even more appealing, for 

example to our Middle Eastern and 

Russian clients who prefer larger 

rooms. We have doubled the size of 

some rooms, from 20 sq m to 40 sq 

m. We attract a diverse clientele, and 

my goal is to never have more than 

20% of any demographic.” The zum 

Storchen has also previously extended 

its courtyard to create space for the 

room expansions and all renovations 

will be fully completed by April 2010. 

All the hotel’s air-conditioned rooms 

and suites are equipped with highspeed 

and wireless Internet access 

(free to business travellers), satellite 

TV, pay TV and radio, minibar, 

cosmetics bar, safe, and an ISDN 

telephone with voice mail, bathrobes 

and slippers, and special bedding as 

well as antiallergenic pillows and 

duvets on request. Chambermaid 

service is offered twice daily and 

room service is available 18 hours 

per day. All rooms are provided 

with fresh fruit, flowers and mineral 

water daily and a delicious breakfast 

is for free. Non-smoking rooms are 

available and dogs are permitted in 

the rooms. All rooms offer lovely 

views of either the Limmat River or 

Zurich’s Old Town. 

is the perfect choice for gourmet 

meals and wines served in a cozy 

dining room with an open fireplace. 

In another mood, the Storchen 

Terrace offers outdoor dining overlooking 

the scenic Limmat River, day 

or night. The Storchen Bar serves 

light lunches and evening cocktails, 

and guests can enjoy live piano music. 

Barchetta is a popular choice for 

light meals, wines and delicious cappuccinos, 

while the Boulevard Café 

serves meals and snacks outdoors 

under the lime trees. 

The hotel contains meeting facilities 

for banquets and gatherings of 

up to 120 people, with various sizes 

of meeting rooms available to suit 

guests’ needs. The zum Storchen 

concierge team is skilled at making 

any type of event a success. Business 

and leisure visitors to Zurich will find 

a special home away from home at 

the historic zum Storchen. 

Exceptional food and 

beverage choices 

The zum Storchen is known for 

its exceptional food and beverage 

offerings. The Rotisserie restaurant 

Am Weinplatz 2 

CH-8001 Zürich 22 


Phone: +41 44 227 27 27 

Fax: +41 44 227 27 00 

www.storchen.ch 

71

SWITZERLAND 

Apartments Swiss Star 

Value-Added Serviced Apartments 

That Make Guests Feel at Home 

Apartments Swiss Star offers 420 serviced apartments 

in and around Zurich which provide, both business and 

leisure travellers, a home away from home in Switzerland. 

Swiss Star, founded in 2004 in Kloten, has already 

earned a strong reputation for its winning combination 

of attractively furnished, well-equipped apartments, fair 

rental rates and high-quality housekeeping services. Swiss 

Star’s apartments are a very desirable alternative to hotels 

for short or long stays in the Zurich area. Ranked number 

one in Zurich, Swiss Star focuses on offering tastefully 

furnished apartments at fair rates. 

From studios to three-bedroom units 

Each Swiss Star apartment is elegantly furnished and 

features a fully equipped kitchen with a glass and 

ceramic topped cooker, a dishwasher, a combination 

convection and microwave oven, a refrigerator, and 

all necessary utensils and dishes. Each apartment 

also has a well-appointed bathroom and comfortable 

beds. Weekly cleaning with a change of towels and 

bed linens, along with parking facilities on request, 

are also part of the package. Wireless LAN with 24 

hour Internet access is standard service in every Swiss 

Star apartment as well as television and a DVD player. 

Private telephone lines are available on enquiry. Additional 

beds, including children’s beds, are available for 

an extra charge, and guests can bring their pets under 

certain conditions. Daily rates are offered up to 29 days 

and discounted monthly rates are especially calculated 

for a longer stay. 

Swiss Star provides a number of options, since its apartments 

range from studios to three-bedroom units. 

Albert Blättler, CEO, explains, “The serviced apartment 

concept was not well known here in Zurich when I started 

the company. Most visitors just stayed in hotels. But I 

realised that many people, especially those coming here 

for a longer time, might prefer a furnished apartment 

where they could feel more at home.” 

Thanks to Swiss Star’s excellent facilities and services as 

well as its attractive prices and added-value extras, the 

business was an immediate success in Kloten and Albert 

Blättler soon expanded to Oerlikon and downtown 

Zurich. Now Apartments Swiss Star offers apartments 

throughout metropolitan Zurich, with two townhouse 

complexes in Aussersihl, a complex in the coveted Wallisellan 

district, a location near Zurich’s trade fair centre 

in Oerlikon with panoramic views, a townhouse complex 

in downtown Oerlikon, a quiet yet central location in 

Niederdorf, a complex in Kloten with easy access to 

the international airport, a facility in Oberstrass near 

Zurichberg and a complex in Irchel near the University 

of Zurich, and two quiet locations in the exclusive 

Wiedikon neighbourhood. 

72


Business travellers seeking value for money 

Most of Swiss Star’s clients are business travellers looking 

for value for money, Albert Blättler explains. He says, 

“Now that we offer three-bedroom apartments, executives 

can bring their whole family with them, whether 

they plan to stay for a couple of months or a couple of 

years.” Most of the company’s clients are from Europe, 

mainly Germany, France, and the UK. 

Swiss Star also has a number of corporate clients. As 

Albert Blättler points out, “Right now companies are 

looking carefully into their budgets and avoiding 

five-star hotels for their travelling executives. We have 

nice apartments, with modern furnishings and all kinds 

of services, including mail delivery to the guest’s door.” 

leisure travel sector as well as continuing to serve 

business travellers. 

Describing the Swiss Star difference, Albert Blättler 

says, “What sets us apart is that we really concentrate 

on making our guests feel at home. We stock the refrigerator 

before a guest arrives and make sure that everything 

is working, from the Internet to all the appliances. 

For the price of a hotel room, our clients can have a 

spacious, well-equipped apartment with a personal 

touch.” In addition to its personalised services, Swiss 

Star prides itself on its flexibility, focus on maintaining 

its apartments and furnishings in tip top shape, and 

perks like free Internet connections. 

The Zurich area is an ideal choice for both business and 

leisure visitors and all parts of the metropolitan area are 

served by high quality mass transit systems, making every 

Swiss Star apartment within easy access of the city’s top 

business districts and tourist sites. Albert Blättler says, 

“You can reach a lot of things in Zurich in only five to 10 

minutes, and the airport has connections all over Europe. 

When you come to Zurich, Swiss Star is ready to be your 

home away from home.” 

Impressive 85% occupancy rate year round 

Swiss Star has achieved an enviable 85% occupancy 

rate year round with an even higher rate in summer. 

The global crisis has not had any negative effect on the 

company, no doubt thanks to its value-added offering. 

Now Albert Blättler plans to expand more into the 

Obstgartenstrasse 24 

8302 Kloten 


Phone: +41 (0)43 255 57 57 

Fax: +41 (0)43 255 57 58 

www.apartments-swiss-star.ch 

73

SWITZERLAND 

Art Museum Winterthur 

Destination Zurich 

Nestling amidst hills and lakes, the Zurich region offers 

a unique combination of lifestyle, indulgence, beautiful 

natural surroundings, and the arts. 

Museums and festivals 

Zurich is the home of the Swiss National Museum, which 

focuses on Switzerland’s long history, and the topnotch 

local universities have their own popular museums. The 

art scene in Zurich is also well developed and includes 

the Löwenbräu Complex and the Kunsthaus (Museum 

of Fine Arts), where the largest collection of fine art in 

Switzerland is held. 

Zürifäscht, a triennial public festival featuring music, 

fireworks, and other attractions, is the largest public 

festival in Switzerland and will be held this year July 2-4. 

Zurich’s Street Parade each August is a summer highlight 

and has become one of Switzerland’s premier carnivals. 

Other festivals include Sechseläuten, the spring festival 

of the guilds and burning of the Böögg; Zürcher Theatre 

Spektakel, an international theatre festival; and Kunst 

Zürich, an international contemporary art fair. 

Zurich offers a tempting collection of fashionable 

boutiques and art galleries, and with its multicultural population, 

the city also has fine restaurants featuring cuisines 

from all over the world. For music and theatre lovers, the 

Zurich Opera House (Zürcher Opernhaus) is one of the 

principal opera houses in Europe, and the Schauspielhaus 

Zürich is the city’s main theatre complex. 

Thanks to its exceptional infrastructure, the city of Zurich 

makes an excellent base for touring nearby attractions as 

well as Switzerland’s other cities; Berne, Basel and Lucerne 

are all easily reached by train or car from Zurich. 

Popular day trips 

Popular destinations for day trips include touring local 

vineyards and visiting picturesque towns like Uetliberg and 

Winterthur. Uetliberg is only 20 minutes from Zurich’s city 

centre by train (line S10), which runs twice every hour. 

One of Uetliberg’s attractions is the Planetary Path (Planetenweg), 

a series of free outdoor exhibits on the solar 

system. The path runs along a mountain ridge and offers 

spectacular views across Lake Zurich. 

Winterthur, less than 30 minutes by car northeast of 

Zurich’s city centre, is famous for both its financial services 

and its art galleries. Many tourists come here from Zurich 

to view the collection of paintings at the Sammlung Oskar 

Reinhart am Römerholz on the Haldenstrasse, which 

includes works by Monet, Rembrandt, Renoir, Rubens and 

Van Gogh. Historic landmarks in this picturesque small 

city include St. Laurenz Church, built in the middle of the 

13th century. The River Eulach flows through the heart of 

Winterthur. 

The colourful city of Baden is also nearby; it offers Fitnesspark 

Hamam Baden, where visitors can pamper 

themselves with Oriental spa treatments. All around Lake 

Zurich (Zürichsee) visitors will find charming villages, restaurants, 

hiking trails and water sports facilities. 

74

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