immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Category: Zentralschweiz

  • Solar panels for a sustainable energy supply

    Solar panels for a sustainable energy supply

    Lustenberger & Dürst SA has implemented two measures for a sustainable energy supply. According to a press release, 903 solar panels with an output of over 370 kilowatts peak were put into operation on various parts of the Langrüti 4 building at the headquarters in Hünenberg. Further solar modules were installed on the roof and facades at the Langrüti 6 site, with an output of just under 187 kilowatts peak.

    The total capacity of both installations will be 557 kilowatts peak, creating the basis for “maximum energy yield” and helping to cover the company’s own electricity requirements. Lustenberger & Dürst currently generates 60 percent of its annual consumption with self-produced solar power.

    The traditional cheese manufacturer sees potential in terms of sustainability. According to CEO Simon Grander, it will be “a central key to a sustainable world”. “For this reason, we have specifically renewed our infrastructure so that we no longer need fossil fuels in our company buildings,” he is quoted as saying.

  • Sustainable processes through pinch analysis and heat storage

    Sustainable processes through pinch analysis and heat storage

    Lucerne University of Applied Sciences andArts (HSLU) has developed the PinCH software, which can be used to make industrial processes more energy-efficient and economical. According to a press release from the university, the latest version of PinCH 4.0 can also integrate open-loop heat storage systems. A pinch analysis can be used to systematically show how thermal energy flows need to be coupled in order to achieve high energy efficiency with minimal overall costs (consisting of investment and operating costs).

    PinCH 4.0 has already been used to analyze the production processes of the food manufacturer HACO in Gümligen BE. The analysis showed that the use of hot water steam required for process preparation can be reduced by half with an open-loop heat storage system.

    “If process streams, such as the brewing water in a brewery or the process water at HACO AG, are used directly as a storage medium, heat exchangers and intermediate circuits can be saved”, explains Donald Olsen, Project Manager PinCH Software Development at HSLU, in the press release. “Such an open-loop storage system increases the energy-saving potential, simplifies the system and thus reduces energy and investment costs.”

  • Merger in the real estate sector: Two companies examine the merger

    Merger in the real estate sector: Two companies examine the merger

    The Opfikon-based real estate company Ina Invest, which is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange, is examining a merger with the over-the-counter real estate company Cham Group. According to a press release, the talks are still at an early stage. The merger is to take the form of a merger of equals. The boards of directors of both companies have signed a letter of intent to this effect.

    The shares of the merged company are to be or remain listed on the stock exchange in the real estate companies segment. If the negotiations lead to a positive outcome, the shareholders of both companies will be able to vote on the merger at the respective Annual General Meetings in spring 2025.

    The potential merger would create “one of Switzerland’s leading real estate companies with a high-quality and sustainable portfolio in prime locations. Ina Invest develops sustainable residential, working and living space with a focus on hybrid real estate that is flexible and profitable to use in the long term. The Cham Group is currently developing a new quarter with around 1,000 apartments and 1,000 jobs on the former factory site in the center of Cham, the Papieri site and the adjacent Pavatex site.

    Implenia, as the 40 percent owner of Ina Invest, has taken note of the examination of a possible merger. In its own press release, the real estate and construction services company expressly welcomes the possible merger.

  • Outstanding projects at the Real Estate Award 2024

    Outstanding projects at the Real Estate Award 2024

    The event begins with a networking aperitif at 5 pm, which offers the opportunity to exchange ideas with leading figures from the industry. The winners in the categories of sustainability, project development/innovation, digital and marketing will then be announced at a gala dinner. The Real Estate Personality of the Year will also be honoured.

    Guest speaker Patrizia Laeri will provide insights into the topics of finance and diversity. Councillor of States and FDP President Thierry Burkart will discuss the current challenges and opportunities in the property sector with Annina Campell.

    Performances by comedian Joël von Mutzenbecher and the rockabilly band ‘the B-Shakers’ round off the evening. The Real Estate Award 2024 offers a varied programme that combines professional exchange with entertainment.

  • Educational institution moves to new location in Rotkreuz

    Educational institution moves to new location in Rotkreuz

    XUND is opening a location on the Suurstoffi site in Rotkreuz. This is the Central Switzerland Health Education Centre’s response to the limited space available for its health training courses in Alpnach. According to a press release, the XUND site there can no longer fulfil the requirements in the long term due to the expected growth and changing training models. It will therefore be replaced by the new Suurstoffi 45 building. It is scheduled to be occupied in 2028. The Lucerne site will remain unaffected.

    According to its own announcement, Zug Estates AG will construct the new building from the end of 2024 and complete it by mid-2027. The real estate company has signed a 30-year lease agreement with XUND for over 6,000 square metres of space. Alain Baumgartner, Head of Portfolio Management at Zug Estates, is quoted as saying that the company has found an “ideal partner in XUND, which fits in very well with the existing tenants on the Suurstoffi site”.

    XUND President Josef Widmer is convinced that the Rotkreuz site will strengthen XUND’s regional roots in Central Switzerland and significantly improve accessibility for many students and trainees: “It will enable synergies with other educational partners such as Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts on site and open up opportunities for collaboration with practitioners and researchers. Thanks to the modern location and the innovative environment on the Suurstoffi site, training in the healthcare sector is becoming more attractive and is helping Central Switzerland’s training companies to secure the next generation of talent.”

  • District heating pipeline between Perlen and Cham to be extended

    District heating pipeline between Perlen and Cham to be extended

    The energy supplier WWZ from Zug is further expanding the Ennetsee heating network. According to its press release, the Ennetsee region is to be supplied with waste heat from the waste incineration plant in Perlen via a district heating pipeline. This requires an extension of the district heating pipeline from Rotkreuz to Cham.

    In a further construction phase, the pipeline will be laid in the municipality of Risch in the Holzhäuser Strasse area from October 7. Sewerage work will begin there on September 7. This became necessary, among other things, due to repeated flooding caused by heavy rainfall in the region.

    The district heating pipeline will be pre-stressed during construction. This means that the pipe is installed and welded in a preheated state. This prevents uncontrolled expansion of the pipeline under operating load.

    During the construction work, traffic obstructions such as road closures and detour are to be expected in the area. WWZ expects the district heating pipeline to Cham to be completed and put into operation by fall 2026.

  • Alpnach military airfield to be expanded

    Alpnach military airfield to be expanded

    The Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport(DDPS) is having a new vehicle parking hangar and a multifunctional workshop extension built at the Alpnach military airfield. The DDPS is investing a total of CHF 18 million in this project. The ground-breaking ceremony on 21 August marked the start of the construction work, which is scheduled to last until the beginning of 2026, the DDPS reported in a press release. According to the press release, around two thirds of the contracts were awarded to companies from central Switzerland.

    The single-storey vehicle hall will cover almost 2,000 square metres and will be built in the eastern part of the airfield. Specialised vehicles and emergency equipment will be housed here in future. The new building will obtain its heat energy from energy piles.

    The new workshop hall will be built as an extension to an existing hall in the western part of the airfield. In future, large specialised vehicles will be maintained there. The new building, measuring around 1,400 square metres, will provide space for a workshop, a work yard and a car wash. Office workstations, cloakrooms and ancillary rooms for operating materials will also be set up there. The extension will be supplied with thermal energy via district heating from the Alpnach Corporation.

    Both buildings will be constructed to “high ecological standards”, writes the DDPS. Plans include façades made of wooden louvres. Photovoltaic systems installed on both roofs will produce a total of around 324 megawatt hours of electricity per year.

  • Portfolio expanded with third green bond

    Portfolio expanded with third green bond

    Zug Estates Holding AG placed its third green bond on August 26 with payment on September 30, the real estate company specializing in the development, marketing and operation of properties in the Zug region announced in a press release. The bond, which is aimed at institutional investors, has a volume of 100 million Swiss francs, a term of seven years and an interest rate of 1.65 percent.

    Zug Estates had already issued its first green bond in 2019. In 2022, the real estate company then switched its bond portfolio entirely to green bonds. Green buildings currently account for around 95% of Zug Estates’ total portfolio. Properties are classified as green buildings if they have less than 1 kilogram of greenhouse gas emissions per square meter of energy reference area.

    In future, Zug Estates wants to be able to offer other types of green financial instruments in addition to green bonds. To this end, the real estate company has expanded its green bond framework to include a green finance framework. As part of the expansion, Zug Estates has obtained a second opinion from International Shareholder Services (ISS) Corporate Solutions. The agency, which specializes in ESG research and ratings, awarded the real estate company a C rating and thus prime status on August 23.

  • Advanced wood processing technology presented in Switzerland

    Advanced wood processing technology presented in Switzerland

    Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin visited Strüby ‘s expanded production center in Root on 15 August 2024. He and his delegation from the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research and the Federal Office for Housing experienced a world premiere, according to a press release from the Seewen-based timber construction company.

    In the presence of visitors, the first solid wood elements were produced on the fully automated board stacking machine, which according to Strüby is the only one of its kind in the world. It was manufactured for Strüby by Weinig, a Baden-Württemberg company specializing in woodworking machines. Strüby intends to significantly increase the production of natural wood ceilings.

    The delegation was impressed by the four-hectare plant and Strüby’s product range, the press release continues. This ranges from project development, architecture, engineering, production and realization to customer service and building maintenance.

  • Growth in the construction industry in Southeast Asia

    Growth in the construction industry in Southeast Asia

    Sika has more than doubled its production capacity in Bekasi, the globally active specialty chemicals group for construction and industry announced in a press release. Sika’s largest production facility in Indonesia produces mortar products such as tile adhesives and grouting mortar as well as system solutions for walls and facades. The plant, which functions as a distribution center for Indonesia, has also been equipped with more storage capacity.

    According to Sika’s estimates, the construction industry in Indonesia will achieve annual growth of around 6 percent over the next few years. In the last two years, the company has expanded its distribution network in the country from around 10,000 to around 30,000 sales outlets. As this has proven successful, Sika is planning to expand its distribution networks in other important markets such as China and India.

    “The significant expansion of our supply chain in Indonesia will enable us to better meet the strong demand in one of the most dynamic markets in Southeast Asia,” said Philippe Jost, Regional Head Asia/Pacific at Sika, in the press release. “In addition, Sika is positioning itself for further growth in this important market, which is driven by rapid urbanization and strong population growth.”

  • Additional loan for administration building at Seetalplatz Lucerne

    Additional loan for administration building at Seetalplatz Lucerne

    In 2021, the people of Lucerne voted in favour of the construction of an administration building on Seetalplatz and approved a special loan of CHF 177.4 million. Due to staff growth and unexpected construction requirements, the cantonal government is now requesting an additional credit of CHF 14.25 million. In particular, the increased number of employees in the cantonal administration, especially in the Asylum and Refugee Service, requires an expansion of office space.

    In addition to the increase in space, structural adjustments will be made in order to fulfil the ecological requirements of Lucerne’s climate policy. These include an extension of the photovoltaic system from the roof area to the building façade as well as a possible extension of the building in the inner courtyard, which will lead to an improved utilisation of the property. In addition, further cost increases will arise due to building permit requirements.

    Central point of contact for the population
    Once completed in 2026, the administration building will house more than 2,000 cantonal employees and offer centralised services for the population at an easily accessible location in Lucerne North. The ground-breaking ceremony took place in September 2023 and construction work is progressing according to plan.

    The Cantonal Council will decide on the additional loan in the October session.

  • Swiss sales company in the canton of Schwyz

    Swiss sales company in the canton of Schwyz

    Gira has opened its Swiss branch in Feusisberg. From there, the building technology specialist from the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia intends to gain a foothold in the Swiss market with its own sales company. In addition to Switzerland, Gira is also represented in the UK, Austria, the Netherlands and Spain. According to the information provided, importers market and sell Gira products and system solutions in a further 35 markets with a focus on Europe and Asia.

    Alfred Mölzer, who has been Managing Director of Gira Austria GmbH since 2022, will be responsible for the Swiss business. Together with his team, he meticulously prepared the establishment of Gira Swiss GmbH over a period of around one and a half years, according to a company press release. In addition to analysing figures and statistics, numerous discussions were held with market participants from the retail, trade, architecture and construction sectors, according to Mölzer. “This is the only way to get a feel for what makes the market tick and which specific needs we need to fulfil with our range of solutions and services.”

    These have shown the medium-sized technology company that there are opportunities for a successful market entry, particularly in the field of building automation. After all, the company has played a key role in shaping the digital networking of home and building technology with its developments from the very beginning. This will therefore be the “spearhead” of market development.

  • New training course on construction organization launched

    New training course on construction organization launched

    The University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland(FHNW) is introducing a four-day course on construction organization from 24 September, according to a press release. The Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Construction Organization will be added to the Master’s degree course in Construction Management. The FHNW Construction Organization continuing education course is an intensive program that takes place over four days in one week from Tuesday to Friday, according to the press release.

    The course covers seven relevant topics that are crucial for the effective planning and organization of construction sites. Participants have the opportunity to register for the entire CAS until the end of the course, provided there are still places available and the admission criteria are met.

    According to the FHNW, a central component of the course is practice-oriented exercises, which are carried out either individually or in small groups and then discussed. Presentations and exchanges of experience take place in plenary sessions to create an interactive learning environment. The use of a laptop is recommended for participants to optimize the learning experience.

    The FHNW Construction Organization continuing education course is aimed at architects and engineers from all disciplines with a university degree or comparable qualification and professional experience in the construction and planning sector. Experienced site managers who would like to refresh their knowledge and less experienced site managers who are looking for initial impetus for their work are also welcome. The practical training course offers an ideal opportunity for construction professionals to deepen their specialist knowledge and develop their skills in the field of construction organization, according to the FHNW.

  • Schindler operates more profitably

    Schindler operates more profitably

    Schindler generated global sales totaling 5.59 billion Swiss francs in the first half of the 2024 financial year, the elevator manufacturer from the canton of Lucerne reported in a press release. This corresponds to a year-on-year decline of 2.3 percent. This is due to negative foreign currency effects: In local currencies, sales were 1.4 percent higher than in the previous year.

    At CHF 618 million, the operating result at EBIT level was 2.7% higher than in the previous year. The corresponding margin rose from 10.5 to 11.0 percent. “We have been able to continuously improve our margins for six consecutive quarters and have kept our promise to become more profitable,” said Silvio Napoli, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of Schindler, in the press release. “Strengthening our competitiveness is and remains crucial in this market environment.”

    Schindler reported a net profit of 494 million Swiss francs in the half-year under review, with a profit margin of 8.8 percent. In the first half of 2023, net profit of CHF 463 million was realized.

    For the current year, Schindler expects revenue growth in the low single-digit range in local currencies. The EBIT margin is to be maintained at 11 percent. Schindler is planning restructuring costs of CHF 80 million for further improvements in organizational efficiency.

  • Galliker puts superlative charging station from Designwerk into operation

    Galliker puts superlative charging station from Designwerk into operation

    Galliker Transport AG now has a charging station of superlatives: as part of the Innovation Day by Galliker, the logistics company from Altishofen has put the first Stationary Battery Backed Mega Charger from Designwerk into operation, Designwerk Technologies AG announced in a press release. The pilot system of the battery-backed fast charging system has a total capacity of 1 megawatt hour and is powered by solar energy produced by Galliker itself.

    “By using the battery-buffered charging station, we can utilise the solar power produced during the day to efficiently charge our electric commercial vehicles around the clock,” said Felix Felder, Head of Fleet Management at Galliker Transport AG, in the press release. “The Mega Charger can contribute to the stability of our site network by smoothing out peak loads.”

    The charging station is the size of a standard container. The pilot system at Galliker is equipped with two charging points, each with an output of 420 kilowatts of direct current. The maximum version of the Mega Charger can accommodate a total capacity of up to 2 megawatt hours.

    “The commissioning of the Mega Charger at Galliker is an important milestone in the development of future-proof charging infrastructure for heavy commercial vehicles,” explains Thorben Maier, Head of Sales and Customer Service Charging Technology at Designwerk Technologies AG. “Our technology enables logistics companies to cover a wide range of charging scenarios sustainably, with the buffer storage relieving the load on the power grid.”

  • Holcim expands use of artificial intelligence in plants

    Holcim expands use of artificial intelligence in plants

    Holcim is expanding the use of AI-based machine intelligence to over 100 plants worldwide over the next four years, according to a statement. The AI is intended to anticipate incidents and avoid breakdowns in order to increase operational resilience, boost efficiency and increase capacity for customers.

    To this end, the international building materials supplier is working with C3 AI, the leading AI platform provider for outstanding forecasting technology, based in Redwood City, California. Holcim has also announced that it will be trialling whether its state-of-the-art predictive maintenance solution can be enhanced by generative AI.

    As part of the rollout, Holcim’s maintenance teams will be equipped with this predictive technology for real-time asset management and optimisation. It will also be used for product quality and process optimisation, autonomous vehicles and computer vision.

    This is all part of Holcim’s Plants of Tomorrow programme to modernise a global network of over 140 integrated plants and grinding stations in more than 40 countries. According to the information provided, this initiative also includes the use of unmanned drones for inspection and intelligent control systems for efficient energy consumption.

  • Implenia and Frutiger win construction contract for Sisikon tunnel

    Implenia and Frutiger win construction contract for Sisikon tunnel

    The consortium (ARGE) of Implenia and Frutiger has been awarded the contract to build the Sisikon tunnel. According to a press release, the joint venture of the cantons of Schwyz and Uri has awarded the contract for lot 200 to the consortium led by Implenia. The contract is worth 430 million Swiss francs, resulting in a volume of 250 million Swiss francs for Implenia. The tunnelling is part of the New Axenstrasse transport infrastructure project.

    The core of the construction work is the single-tube, 4.4 kilometre long road tunnel with two-way traffic, which will be built by drill and blast. The consortium is also building underground structures such as access tunnels, diversion points, ventilation centres and exhaust shafts. This work will be followed by civil engineering works such as the construction of a large gallery to protect against natural hazards. The up to seven simultaneous tunnelling points and very tight space conditions are considered to be particular challenges. “We will be able to contribute our extensive expertise and experience in tunnelling and civil engineering,” says Christian Späth, Head Division Civil Engineering at Implenia. Due to its size and complexity, Lot 200 forms the centrepiece of the new road section on the eastern shore of Lake Uri and Lake Lucerne.

    According to the press release, construction work will start in mid-2025 and is scheduled to end in 2034.

  • P.A.W. Hub presents innovation centre for Lucerne North

    P.A.W. Hub presents innovation centre for Lucerne North

    P.A.W. Hub AG has unveiled a new project for a national and international business centre in Lucerne North. A centre that combines creative business solutions with educational facilities and residential and commercial buildings is to be built at the site, according to a press release. The project, which is supported by the Lucerne Economic Development Agency, is about to enter a new phase of realisation following the successful concretisation of the construction plans and the granting of planning permission. In the first phase, work will focus on the areas of education and health. Technology centres are also to be established. According to the press release, regional, national and international players are to be attracted to the project. P.A.W. Hub is looking for investors who want to participate in the success of the project for its further realisation.

    “Lucerne Economic Development strongly supports the P.A.W. Hub project, as it offers a significant opportunity for economic development in our region,” Andreas Zettel, Head of Business Development at Lucerne Economic Development, is quoted as saying in the press release. “We see great potential in the fact that the hub supports local companies, attracts skilled labour and increases the region’s attractiveness for further investment.”

    “We are convinced that the hub will boost the economy in Lucerne and position the region as an attractive location for investment and skilled labour,” adds Sacha Willemsen, initiator and co-founder of P.A.W. Hub AG.

  • Sika sets ambitious emission reduction targets

    Sika sets ambitious emission reduction targets

    The Science Based Targets Initiative has validated Sika ‘s short and long-term emission reduction targets, the globally active speciality chemicals group for the construction and automotive industries from Baar announced in a press release. Sika aims to reduce emissions in Scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 30.4 per cent by 2032. By 2050, direct and indirect emissions should have fallen by 90 per cent. At the same time, the Group is sticking to its growth strategy.

    Sika has taken a number of measures to achieve its targets. For example, material efficiency and the circular economy are to be improved through education and skills development. Sika aims to reduce emissions along the value chain through partnerships with key suppliers, among other things. In addition, the focus is on the rapid use of alternative energy sources and the development of new technological solutions for construction and industry.

    “By actively working with our partners, suppliers and customers, we are promoting industry initiatives to mitigate climate change and open up new business opportunities,” Patricia Heidtman, Chief Innovation and Sustainability Officer at Sika, is quoted as saying in the press release. “This strengthens our conviction that we are on the right track and offer sustainable solutions that meet today’s needs without jeopardising the future.”

  • Construction of a met mast for wind measurement and environmental monitoring started

    Construction of a met mast for wind measurement and environmental monitoring started

    According to a press release,CKW began construction of a measuring mast on the Ruswilerberg on 13 May. The mast carries anemometers at 60, 80 and 100 metres that measure the wind. At heights of 60 and 100 metres, ultrasonic sensors measure the sounds of bats flying by. At the top, sensors measure temperatures and humidity.

    The measurements are collected for at least one year. They are intended to help check the existing wind and weather data and thus ensure the economic viability of the planned wind farm. At the same time, they should help to minimise the impact on humans, animals and the environment.

    CKW is planning a wind farm with five turbines on the Ruswilerberg.

  • Zug uses OECD minimum tax for location promotion

    Zug uses OECD minimum tax for location promotion

    In response to the imminent introduction of a global minimum tax for large international companies from 2024, which could potentially affect the canton’s competitiveness, the canton of Zug has developed plans to compensate for any locational disadvantages. The planned measures include the complete reinvestment of the expected additional revenue of around CHF 200 million per year in three priority areas: social infrastructure, innovative projects and sustainable development initiatives.

    Focus on social and innovative projects
    The planned social measures are aimed at making life more attractive for the population and the local economy. These include investments in needs-based childcare provision, higher contributions to public schools and measures to improve the living and working environment. In the area of infrastructure and innovation, the focus is on future-oriented projects. Initiatives such as the “Blockchain Zug Joint Research Initiative” and the “ETH Learning Factory Zug” are intended to increase competitiveness and quality of life in the canton by promoting sustainable energy supply and storage.

    Legal framework and financial planning
    In order to achieve these goals, the cantonal government is proposing a new “Location Development Act” that will introduce an efficient and flexible system of subsidies for sustainability and innovation. From 2026, CHF 150 million per year is earmarked for subsidies, with the maximum subsidy amount being approved annually by the Cantonal Council from 2029. This approach is intended to provide companies in the canton of Zug with planning and legal certainty.

    Finance Director Heinz Tännler emphasises that the planned measures are essential in order to maintain Zug as a preferred residential and business location. The public consultation on the new law will run until 15 September 2024 and the law is due to come into force on 1 January 2026. These strategic decisions demonstrate Zug’s commitment to maintaining its leading position despite global tax changes and remaining an attractive location for companies and skilled labour.

  • Ground-breaking ceremony for carbon-free cement plant in Belgium

    Ground-breaking ceremony for carbon-free cement plant in Belgium

    Building materials producer Holcim, headquartered in Zug, has broken ground on a plant for the production of carbon-free cement in Belgium, according to a press release. The event in Obourg took place in the presence of Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and the EU Commissioner for Climate Action, Wopke Hoekstra.

    The modern GO4ZERO plant should be able to produce a total of 2 million tonnes of net zero cement per year by 2029. With a planned investment of over 500 million euros, the project aims to drive forward the decarbonisation of Europe, according to the press release. Holcim is collaborating on the project with Air Liquide, a Paris-based company specialising in gases for industry, medicine and environmental protection.

    Holcim is supporting the project with 230 million euros from the European Innovation Fund, which is financed by revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System. “The Innovation Fund is driving the introduction of innovative, low-carbon technologies in Europe,” Wopke Hoekstra is quoted as saying.

    “By driving decarbonisation as an engine for profitable growth, Holcim is well on its way to making net-zero cement and concrete a reality on a large scale in this decade,” says Miljan Gutovic, CEO of the Holcim Group. GO4ZERO is one of six projects supported by the European Union for the capture, utilisation and storage of carbon dioxide. “These aim to capture a total of over 5 million tonnes of CO2 per year so that we can offer over 8 million tonnes of fully decarbonised cement per year across Europe by 2030,” says Gutovic.

  • Zug sets standards in global blockchain research

    Zug sets standards in global blockchain research

    With the support of the Canton of Zug, an interdisciplinary research centre is being established that will focus on the diverse applications and effects of blockchain technology. The initiative, which is being realised in cooperation with the University of Lucerne and Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, will not only research the technological aspects of blockchain, but also the social, economic and political aspects. Finance Director Heinz Tännler emphasises that the project not only promotes scientific research, but also strengthens Zug as a business location, particularly in light of the new OECD minimum taxation that was introduced at the beginning of 2024.

    Globally unique research initiative
    The newly founded Zug Institute for Blockchain Research at the University of Lucerne will focus on the challenges and opportunities of this disruptive technology. Nine new chairs will be created to address the various facets of blockchain technology. The research will pursue a holistic approach that encompasses technological innovations as well as the associated social, economic and political issues. The aim is to develop an in-depth understanding of blockchain technology and its potential impact on society.

    Strengthening research capacities at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciencesand Arts
    The Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts will significantly expand its existing activities in blockchain research through the new initiative. The university is contributing its expertise in the fields of computer science, finance and technology to the project and is working closely with the University of Lucerne to create a comprehensive research environment. This cooperation forms the basis for the hub, a platform for collaboration and communication that promotes exchange between the participating researchers and the global blockchain community.

    Sustainable funding and long-term goals
    Following the initial start-up funding from the canton, it is planned that the project will switch to sustainable sources of funding. An external evaluation after three years will assess the effectiveness and progress of the research initiative. These measures will ensure that the “Blockchain Zug – Joint Research Initiative” becomes a permanent fixture in the global research landscape in the long term and establishes Zug as a leading centre for blockchain technology.

  • New Lucerne Theatre: Forward-looking operating concept confirmed

    New Lucerne Theatre: Forward-looking operating concept confirmed

    The evaluation of the operating concept for the new Lucerne theatre, which was drawn up in 2020 and later adapted to the winning project “überall” by Zurich architects Ilg Santer, was led by the renowned management consultancy METRUM. This review included discussions with experts and a review of documents and studies on various operational aspects such as personnel, space costs and catering.

    Confirmation and strategic direction
    The evaluation was divided into the areas of “cultural policy issues”, “output issues” such as visitor numbers and performance figures and “input issues”, which include personnel planning and building maintenance. The results confirmed the operating concept and emphasised the need for detailed planning for the future. Cultural Director Dr Armin Hartmann and Lucerne City President Beat Züsli presented the encouraging results, which confirm the theatre as a multi-genre theatre with its own ensemble and emphasise its importance for cultural provision and economic value creation.

    Confidence-building and political acceptance
    The pre-evaluation serves as an important confidence-building measure for the project, which is facing political and financial challenges. The results provide a solid basis for the upcoming decisions and further project development, including a possible referendum in winter 2025. This step is crucial to convince the city council of the necessity and feasibility of the project.

    With the upcoming media conference and the detailed presentation of the “everywhere” project, the City of Lucerne will present a comprehensive report and proposal that sets out the financial and operational framework for the new theatre. This progress promises to have a lasting impact on Lucerne’s cultural landscape and further strengthen the city as a cultural hub in Switzerland.

  • Award for sustainable new build in Central Switzerland

    Award for sustainable new build in Central Switzerland

    Lignum, the timber industry association, has awarded the Swiss Timber Label to the new Campus Sursee event hall. According to the umbrella organisation of the forestry and timber industry in Central Switzerland, wood is a good choice for the construction of buildings due to its low material weight, high load-bearing capacity and its positive effects on the indoor climate.

    Few educational institutions have opted to build with wood. “It is not often that a leading training centre for construction professionals builds with wood and thus relies on the countless advantages of this renewable raw material,” Melanie Brunner, Managing Director of Lignum Holzwirtschaft Zentralschweiz, is quoted as saying. It is a special honour to be able to award such a prestigious building, she said. The advantages of wood as a building material are synonymous with securing jobs in the region, reducing grey energy and managing forests in an environmentally friendly way. The event hall contains 217 cubic metres of wood. The timber framework and box girder elements consist of 92.3 per cent Swiss wood. This means that 159 tonnes of the greenhouse gas CO2 can be bound in the building.

    Lignum awards the Swiss Wood label to identify wood that has grown in Swiss or Liechtenstein forests and is processed in Switzerland or the Principality. It can be found on the product and on accompanying documents.

  • Redesign of the Schlössli Collab Lucerne

    Redesign of the Schlössli Collab Lucerne

    On 17 April, Axon Active Holding AG began the expansion and renovation of its headquarters in Schlössli Schönegg, high above Lucerne. Following the renovation, the Schlössli will operate under the name Schlössli Collab Luzern, according to an article in the “Luzerner Zeitung” on the ground-breaking ceremony. Axon co-founder and owner Stefan Muff is quoted as saying that the Axon Group wants to drive forward the digital transformation from here. To this end, Schlössli Collab Lucerne wants to offer innovators a home.

    At the ground-breaking ceremony, Lucerne’s Director of Construction and Economic Affairs Fabian Peter (FDP) praised the commitment of the internationally active group of software companies to Lucerne as a location. According to the report, Axon Active will invest around CHF 15 million in the expansion and conversion of its headquarters. The work should be completed by autumn 2026. The group’s approximately 40 employees in the Schlössli are currently housed in a building belonging to the energy supplier EWL on Sternmattstrasse in Lucerne.

  • Holcim takes over Argentinian company Tensolite

    Holcim takes over Argentinian company Tensolite

    Zug-based building materials producer Holcim has signed an agreement to acquire Tensolite, an Argentinian manufacturer of innovative concrete construction systems, according to a press release. The company, which has plants and a distribution network in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, had net sales of USD 22 million in 2023. Tensolite employs 155 people. All are to be taken over. The transaction is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2024.

    “With the acquisition of Tensolite, we are further expanding our Solutions & Products portfolio in Latin America and worldwide,” Holcim’s Latin America CEO Oliver Osswald is quoted as saying. “Due to its leading position in innovative precast and prestressed concrete construction systems, Tensolite will be an important part of our further expansion into the most attractive markets while offering synergies with other business units such as our network of Disensa construction markets.” Holcim’s Disensa brand is the largest franchise network for building materials in Latin America.

    Tensolite was founded in 1979. Its concrete construction systems range from beams and roof tiles to customised products for large construction projects such as bridge girders, grandstands and pavements. Other innovations include cost-efficient, interlocking precast walls. They can be assembled by four people without the use of cranes or other machinery.

  • Aliunid turns Landis+Gyr electricity meters into real-time tachometers

    Aliunid turns Landis+Gyr electricity meters into real-time tachometers

    Aliunid and Landis+Gyr have successfully tested the aliunid gateway for the Landis+Gyr E450 smart meter. Combined with an aliunid gateway, the smart meter becomes “a real-time electricity tachometer”, Landis+Gyr, provider of energy management solutions. said in a media release.

    Founded in 2018, Brugg-based start-up aliunid is a digital energy provider, but without physical infrastructures. It provides its services using real-time data, connectivity and a platform based on the Internet of Things, as a white-label offering for energy suppliers, grid operators and energy producers.

    With renewable energy available in varying quantities depending on the time of day or season and ever-increasing electricity consumption, the power grid needs to become more flexible in order to respond more quickly to fluctuations. Aliunid calls this a “breathing supply“. And this only works with real-time data, which even smart meters alone cannot provide. “We are very pleased that, thanks to the cooperation with Landis+Gyr, we will be able to offer a tested solution for the energy world of tomorrow in the future,” Aliunid CEO Dr David Thiel is quoted as saying.

    “Landis+Gyr supports solution providers for real-time applications that build on existing smart meters and contribute to the Energy Strategy 2050,” explains Dr Christian Zaugg, Head of the Switzerland Business Unit at Landis+Gyr. “This creates additional added value for electricity consumers that goes beyond the primary purpose of automated energy metering and billing.”

  • Zug Cantonal Bank promotes young companies in Central Switzerland

    Zug Cantonal Bank promotes young companies in Central Switzerland

    The Zug Cantonal Bank wants to support young Central Swiss companies with sustainable product innovations. To this end, it is participating in the establishment of buildify.earth, the cantonal bank says in a statement. The newly founded public limited company plans to invest in young companies in the Switzerland Innovation Park Central.

    The innovation park, located in the Suurstoffi in Rotkreuz, focuses on sustainable product innovations in the building and energy sectors as well as mobility. The investments of buildify.earth are intended in particular to attract appropriate young companies in early stages, so-called early-stage start-ups, to the innovation park and keep them in the region. The Zug Cantonal Bank will initially contribute one third of the share capital of buildify.earth. It is represented on the board of directors by Martin Neuhaus, head of corporate client consulting.

    “Zuger Kantonalbank is the bank of entrepreneurs in the region,” Hanspeter Rhyner, CEO of Zuger Kantonalbank, is quoted as saying in the statement. “With our commitment to buildify.earth AG, we are advocating for the best possible framework conditions so that start-ups can develop successfully locally and bring sustainable product innovations from Zug out into the world.”

  • Historic preservation in Zug under criticism

    Historic preservation in Zug under criticism

    The revised Zug Monument Protection Act came into force in 2019 and limits protection to “extremely important” buildings. As a result, many historic buildings in the canton of Zug that are valuable but not “extremely important” are at risk. Critics argue that this strict criterion concerns world-famous monuments such as Notre Dame Cathedral or Cologne Cathedral, but not local monuments such as the Zurlaubenhof.

    Appeal and decision of the Federal Court
    The Zug Heritage Society had challenged the law on the grounds of violations of the Granada Convention, an international treaty for the protection of architectural monuments. The Federal Court partially ruled in their favour, but the decision was not upheld in a more recent case, which means that many buildings in the canton of Zug remain at risk.

    Future prospects
    According to recent court decisions, many historic buildings in Zug are not protected. Owners and residents who want to campaign for the protection of these buildings now face the challenge of challenging the legality of the laws and bearing the associated legal costs. They can rely on international agreements and previous court decisions, but the hurdles are high. Homeland Security regrets that the earlier decision of the Federal Court was not upheld.