immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Category: Company

  • Sandro Principe takes over as Head of Business Clients at SMG Real Estate

    Sandro Principe takes over as Head of Business Clients at SMG Real Estate

    From 1 November 2024, Dr Sandro Principe will take up his new position as Director Business Customers at SMG Real Estate. He is responsible for the strategic management of the division and heads up the sales and customer service area for platforms such as ImmoScout24, Homegate and Flatfox. With his many years of experience from leading positions in the property and IT industries, Principe has the necessary expertise to further develop the business area. He previously worked as Chief Transformation Officer at Wincasa AG and headed up the international property management practice at Yarowa AG.

    Martin Waeber, Managing Director of SMG Real Estate, is delighted with the new appointment: “In Dr Sandro Principe, we have gained an expert who is very well connected both in the Swiss real estate sector and in the IT landscape. We look forward to working with him in the future and to the further development of our business client division.” Principe succeeds Marcel Meier, who has successfully built up SMG Real Estate’s B2B business over the years. In future, Meier will concentrate on his doctoral studies in Lyon and continue to support the company in an advisory capacity.

    Dr Sandro Principe has a Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of St. Gallen and extensive further training in management consulting and agile management. In his new role, he will be responsible for further expanding SMG Real Estate’s business client relationships and strategically managing sales and customer service.

  • Sensor technology revolutionises indoor climate optimisation

    Sensor technology revolutionises indoor climate optimisation

    While heatwaves are a nuisance, many companies are looking for solutions to make the room temperature in offices and workspaces comfortable and energy-efficient. Empa researcher Agnes Psikuta is focussing on advanced sensor technology. Her “smart dummies” called ANDI and HVAC, equipped with a large number of sensors, analyse the indoor climate in real time and help to bring workplaces to a comfortable temperature in the long term.

    The intelligent HVAC dummy measures the air temperature, humidity and air movement in offices in detail and analyses heat sources in order to better understand the interaction between heating, cooling and air circulation. ANDI, on the other hand, records the entire heat balance of a typical person under these conditions. These measurements make it possible to air-condition buildings more efficiently without sacrificing comfort.

    Optimisation potential for offices and operating theatres
    The data collected should not only help to reduce energy requirements in offices, but also contribute to improving climatic conditions in operating theatres. The precise measurements by HVAC and ANDI support the ideal positioning of heat lamps to protect patients from hypothermia without overheating the operating theatre team.

  • New owner drives expansion and innovation in the area of room systems

    New owner drives expansion and innovation in the area of room systems

    Swiss Life Asset Managers has reached a binding agreement with Condecta AG on a full takeover of the Winterthur-based specialist for modular construction, Swiss Life Asset Managers announced in a press release. The asset manager of the Swiss Life Group, which specialises in real estate and infrastructure, intends to expand Condecta’s presence and offering. The Winterthur-based company is currently represented in Switzerland, Germany and Italy. The two partner companies have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

    “The Swiss market for rental solutions in the modular space sector has potential, particularly in the public sector, industry, construction, architecture and the private sector, which require high-quality modular building solutions,” said Gianfranco Saladino, Head of Value-Add Infrastructure at Swiss Life Asset Managers, in the press release. “Condecta, known for its high Swiss quality, is well positioned to meet the growing demand.”

    According to Condecta CEO Olivier Annaheim, the company has found “the perfect new owner in Swiss Life Asset Managers to drive forward our growth and innovation plans and further expand our market leadership in the area of room systems in Switzerland”. For Matthew Dooley, Investment Director at Swiss Life Asset Managers, Condecta is “complementary to Swiss Life Asset Managers’ extensive property and infrastructure business in Switzerland”.

  • 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.

  • Expansion of the range of services through strategic acquisition

    Expansion of the range of services through strategic acquisition

    Pforzheim-based ease GmbH has acquired the Munich-based subsidiary of Helvengo AG. With the takeover of Helvengo GmbH, the insurance company specialising in the property industry intends to expand its range of services, ease announced in a press release. The purchase price was not disclosed.

    Helvengo, which was founded in 2020, specialises in the development of innovative insurance products. The two companies had already jointly developed a building insurance solution based on the Internet of Things (IoT) in 2022. “The IoT-based tariff set a milestone last year,” said Marcel Hanselmann, Managing Director of ease, in the press release. “We are delighted to be actively shaping the future in this area with Helvengo GmbH and to be able to offer our customers an even more attractive portfolio of services.”

    Zurich-based Helvengo AG has been in liquidation since the beginning of August. With ease, the German subsidiary “has had a strong partner at our side from the very beginning, who has played a key role in shaping our vision of data-driven insurance products”, explains Helvengo co-founder Felix Huemer in the press release. “We are convinced that Helvengo GmbH will be able to utilise synergies within the corporate group with ease and continue to expand successfully on the market.”

  • HighStep joins industry association Swiss Safety

    HighStep joins industry association Swiss Safety

    HighStep Systems AG has joined the Swiss industry association for manufacturers and importers of personal protective equipment (PPE), according to a press release. Swiss Safety is committed to improving safety standards in the industry and offers its members access to a wide range of resources, training courses and networks, it added.

    As a new partner in the association, HighStep Systems AG wants to play an active role in promoting occupational safety and efficiency, according to the press release. HighStep’s fall protection systems and ergonomic solutions for working at heights and depths are specially designed to make workplaces safer and more productive.

    HighStep Systems AG was founded in 2007 and is based in Dietikon. It develops and sells arrester systems as an alternative to conventional climbing methods such as fixed ladders. As a result, workstations at great heights can be reached safely and comfortably, which increases safety and productivity for employees. The HighStep climbing protection system consists of two components: an aluminum rail as a system carrier and a selectable climbing device, the HighStep Easy and the portable HighStep Lift.

    In terms of application, the focus is on electricity pylons, wind turbines, transmission towers and industrial plants. Several thousand installations are in operation worldwide – primarily in Europe and also in Asian countries such as China and India. Customers include the Swiss transmission system operator Swissgrid, the European high-voltage grid operator TenneT and the Chinese energy company State Grid Corporation of China.

  • Bank aims for net zero by 2030 in its own operations

    Bank aims for net zero by 2030 in its own operations

    ZKB wants to reduce its operational emissions to net zero by 2030. Since 2010, the Cantonal Bank has already reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by around 70 per cent, explains Marit Kruthoff from ZKB’s Performance Mandate department in an interview on the Cantonal Bank’s blog. The overall goal is to continuously reduceCO2-equivalentemissions(CO2e) and increase operational ecological performance. ZKB aims to limit its operational emissions to a maximum of 1,800 tonnes ofCO2eper year by 2030.

    ZKB aims to eliminate these unavoidable residual emissions through its removal portfolio. This involves removing CO2 from the atmosphere and storing it permanently in plants, soil, oceans or cement, for example. ZKB is relying “on the combination of the three providers neustark, climeworks and Bioenergie Frauenfeld”, explains Kruthoff.

    Climeworks, a Zurich-based spin-off of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, operates plants that remove CO2 directly from the atmosphere and permanently store the CO2 captured from the air. Bioenergie Frauenfeld, based in the capital of Thurgau, uses pyrolysis to produce biochar and gas from wood. The resulting waste heat is utilised as district heating. Neustark from Bern has developed a technology for storing CO2 in demolition concrete. All three companies achieve negative emissions with their technologies. The resulting waste heat is utilised as district heating. Neustark from Bern has developed a technology for storing CO2 in demolition concrete. All three companies achieve negative emissions with their technologies.

  • Mobimo posts profit increase

    Mobimo posts profit increase

    Mobimo Holding AG achieved an operating result at EBIT level including revaluations of CHF 83.3 million in the first half of 2024, the Lucerne-based real estate company announced in a press release. This corresponds to a year-on-year increase of 63.9 percent. Excluding revaluations, EBIT rose from CHF 60.1 million to CHF 61.3 million. Mobimo attributes this positive development to consistently strong rental success and a strengthened development and promotion business.

    At CHF 65.6 million, net profit including revaluations was 91.5 percent higher than in the same period of the previous year. This was due to a gain from the sale of a non-consolidated stake in Parking Saint-Francois SA in Lausanne. Excluding revaluations, profit increased year-on-year from CHF 43.1 million to CHF 47.8 million.

    At 62.5 million, rental income was 3.0 percent below the previous year’s figure. Excluding special effects of CHF 3 million recognized in the first half of 2023, however, rental income increased by 2.5 percent, Mobimo explains. This leads to growth in net rental income of 2.0 percent on an adjusted basis.

    The value of the real estate portfolio amounted to CHF 3.7 billion at the end of June, compared with CHF 3.6 billion at the end of 2023. In July, Mobimo also acquired six buildings with a total of 41 apartments in Dielsdorf ZH from an institutional investor.

  • Expansion in the Caribbean market through the acquisition of a construction chemicals manufacturer

    Expansion in the Caribbean market through the acquisition of a construction chemicals manufacturer

    Sika has acquired the construction chemicals manufacturer Vinaldom, based in the Dominican Republic, according to a press release. The family-run company is a leader in the production of concrete admixtures, fibers, adhesives and sealants.

    Vinaldom is Sika’s first plant in the Dominican Republic and its sixth in the Caribbean. The acquisition enables Sika to secure and expand its market position in the fast-growing Dominican market. The optimized production capacity, the larger customer base and the expanded product range will improve market access and open up “excellent cross-selling opportunities” for the company, according to the press release. “Thanks to improved access to a broader customer base and supported by local production, we will generate further growth in the Dominican market,” Mike Campion, Regional Head Americas, is quoted as saying.

    According to the press release, growth drivers in the Dominican Republic industry are infrastructure projects in the areas of energy and transportation, commercial construction and tourism. Sika is ideally positioned in this dynamic future market to benefit from the growth trends.

  • Vocational trainer meeting SVIT Zurich 2024

    Vocational trainer meeting SVIT Zurich 2024

    The reforms to basic commercial training are crucial to ensure that the training of young adults meets the changing demands of the labour market. The new provisions, which are based on a review every five years, have been in force since August 2023. The aim is to ensure that commercial apprenticeships always keep pace with the times. The current projects of Bildung Kaufleute Schweiz and the Interessengemeinschaft Kaufmännische Grundbildung ensure that commercial apprenticeships EFZ and EBA will continue to meet the changing needs of the labour market in the future. The focus here is on the development of competences to facilitate graduates’ direct entry into professional life.

    Experience reports and practical implementation
    This year’s SVIT Zurich vocational trainer meeting will focus on the reform. The organisation for basic commercial training in fiduciary services / real estate will report on its experiences in implementing the reforms. SVIT Zurich will also present ways in which apprentices can be supported throughout the three years of training in accordance with the new training regulations and optimally prepared for the final examination.

    Interactive participation and dialogue
    A key element of the meeting is the opportunity to ask questions directly to the OKGT. This gives participants the opportunity to get actively involved and benefit from the experience and knowledge of the experts.

    Event details
    The vocational trainer meeting will take place on Tuesday, 10 September 2024, from 10:30 to 13:00 on the premises of SVIT Zurich, Siewerdtstrasse 8, 8050 Zurich. Participation is free of charge for both SVIT Zurich members and non-members. As the number of places in the presence mode is limited, members of SVIT Zurich have priority when allocating places.

    This meeting offers a valuable platform for the exchange and networking of vocational trainers and experts in the property and location promotion sector. Participants will have the opportunity to find out about the latest developments in basic commercial training and actively participate in the discussion.

    Registration for the Vocational Trainer Meeting 2024

    Flyer for the Vocational TrainersMeeting2024Download
  • Real Estate Award 2024: The property event of the year is coming up!

    Real Estate Award 2024: The property event of the year is coming up!

    The event menu for the Real Estate Award ceremony on 24 October 2024 is set: In addition to a meat-based 4-course feast, guests can also look forward to a delicious vegan option. Just one of many innovations, as the Managing Director of Real Estate Award AG, Mara Schlumpf, explains: “Our guests can look forward to an unforgettable evening. In addition to a delicious culinary experience, encounters with well-known personalities from Swiss business and politics also have a fixed place in the exciting evening programme.” Whether on the red carpet, at a cosy aperitif or at an upscale gala dinner: there is hardly a better opportunity for networking in the real estate industry this year.

    On 24 October 2024, this year’s winners will be chosen in the categories Digital, Project Development and Innovation, Marketing and, for the first time, in the newly created Sustainability category. You can currently vote for your favourites at www.realestateaward.ch. The contenders for the coveted crystal glass trophies are

    Digital: Backbone, Novalytica, QAECY

    Project Development & Innovation: Cham Group, Redvolution, Topik

    Marketing: Emonitor, Fairmarkter, Properti

    Sustainability: Zurich Airport, Vaudoise&HRS, Zindel United

    In addition, the Real Estate Personality of the Year will be chosen by the renowned Real Estate Award jury. A good atmosphere is also guaranteed at the event: comedy and music round off the varied programme. “I’m already looking forward to the Real Estate Award ceremony in October,” says Mara Schlumpf. “The evening will set a new benchmark in the history of the award.”
    Tickets for the award ceremony and gala dinner are available at www.realestateaward.ch.

  • StWZ Energie announces halfway point in smart meter rollout

    StWZ Energie announces halfway point in smart meter rollout

    StWZ Energie AG has been switching to smart electricity meters in its supply area since the beginning of 2022. The Aargau-based energy supplier has now installed more than 5,700 smart meters, equipping half of its electricity customers in Zofingen and Strengelbach with modern meters, StWZ Energie reported in a press release. A law stipulates that at least 80 percent of electricity meters in Switzerland must be smart meters by 2027.

    The intelligent meters serve to increase the efficiency of electricity consumption and at the same time simplify the billing process. Grid operators will find it easier to identify and smooth out peak loads. Customers benefit from the electronic measurement of consumption data. They can be viewed on the StWZ customer portal on the following day. This means, for example, that “electricity guzzlers in your own household can be identified”, writes StWZ Energie. There is also no need for on-site meter reading.

  • Energy supplier invests in climate-friendly switchgear and earthquake safety

    Energy supplier invests in climate-friendly switchgear and earthquake safety

    According to a press release, the Basel-based energy supplier IWB is strengthening the most important hub of the Basel electricity grid in the Volta substation. One of the largest switchgears in a Swiss distribution grid is being replaced there, the press release continues. IWB will replace all electrical systems in the Volta substation by 2029 and also make the building earthquake-proof. The new switchgear will be operated with a climate-friendly insulating gas and the power grid will be reinforced with additional transformers. By investing in the renovation of the building and systems, IWB is making an important contribution to the high reliability of Basel’s electricity supply, the statement continues.

    The Volta substation is the largest of IWB’s seven substations and is almost 100 years old. It was put into operation in 1932. Around a fifth of Basel’s electricity flows through the substation every day, an average of 600,000 kilowatt hours.

    A new switchgear is currently being installed. It is replacing the switchgear for the 145-kilovolt grid, which dates back to 1976. It will consist of eleven switch panels and will be 16 metres long when completed. IWB will then also replace the switchgear for the 12-kilovolt grid. It will consist of 78 switch panels and be around 60 metres long. According to IWB, these will be the largest switchgears ever installed in a Swiss supply network. Both switchgears will also be equipped with climate-friendly insulating gas.

    There are three transformers in the Volta substation that will be overhauled as part of the project. IWB will also install two additional transformers. The overall renovation of the substation will take place during ongoing operations.

  • Photovoltaic output increased tenfold in the last seven years

    Photovoltaic output increased tenfold in the last seven years

    Thurplus takes positive stock of PV expansion over the past seven years. Between 2016 and 2023, Frauenfeld’s municipal energy supplier was able to increase its output more than tenfold from 144 to around 1500 kilowatt peak. In 2023 alone, over 700 kilowatt peak were added, according to a press release.

    In total, these solar systems produce around 1.5 million kilowatt hours of electricity per year. This corresponds to the average consumption of around 330 households. Between 2016 and 2023, the number of shareholders in the PV citizen participation models also increased from 50 to 240, according to the press release.

    “By actively shaping and successfully implementing many sustainable PV projects, Thurplus has managed to achieve this”, says Fabrizio Hugentobler, City Councillor and Head of the Thurplus, Leisure and Sport Department. “Thurplus is well positioned with its solar power, SolarInvest, PV contracting and other solutions.”

    According to the municipal PV strategy for Thurplus, an additional 5 per cent of the total electricity consumption of around 150 gigawatt hours is to be added annually by 2027. This corresponds to a total installed PV capacity of 8 megawatt peak or an electricity production of around 7.5 gigawatt hours per year. Thurplus is looking for suitable roofs from companies and institutions. “Together, we want to make progress and do our bit to ensure that the PV expansion targets are achieved,” says Thurplus Managing Director Peter Wieland.

  • Holcim posts record high profitability

    Holcim posts record high profitability

    Holcim generated sales of 12.81 billion Swiss francs in the first half of 2024, the globally active Zug-based building materials group announced in a press release. This corresponds to a year-on-year decline of 1.9 percent. In local currencies, growth of 1.6 percent was achieved.

    The recurring operating result at EBIT level increased by 8.1 per cent year-on-year to CHF 2.21 billion. The corresponding margin increased from 15.6 to 17.2 per cent. A record-high margin of 23.2 per cent was even achieved for the second quarter of 2024.

    Group profit before impairments and disposals rose by 7.5 per cent to CHF 1.38 billion. By contrast, net profit fell by 3.4 percent to CHF 1.22 billion. In the half-year under review, Holcim made eleven acquisitions and sold four parts of the Group.

    Holcim can also point to successes in terms of sustainability. For example, CO2 emissions in relation to sales were 7 per cent lower in the reporting period than in the previous year. In addition, Holcim’s low-emission cement ECOPlanet already accounted for 26 percent of Group-wide cement sales. The share of low-emission concrete ECOPact reached 28 percent. At the end of 2023, the share of the two sustainable products was still 19 percent each. “Our leading sustainable construction solutions – from the low-CO2 concrete ECOPact to the energy-efficient Elevate roof systems – make us the partner of choice for major projects, such as in the infrastructure sector or in the construction of data centres,” Holcim CEO Miljan Gutovic is quoted as saying in the press release.

  • Dormakaba launches new terminals for time and attendance recording

    Dormakaba launches new terminals for time and attendance recording

    Dormakaba is presenting two new time recording terminals. Terminal 96 00 is available immediately, with Terminal 98 00 to follow shortly, the internationally active locking technology company from Rümlang announced in a press release. Both terminals “support individual working time models, meet the specific needs of employers and are designed to adapt to different requirements and display designs”, it says.

    The 96 00 terminal has a 5-inch screen, the surface of which can be freely designed. In addition to time recording functions, the device also offers options for identification and access control. The storage volume comprises 50,000 master records and 200,000 transactions.

    During development, dormakaba also paid attention to sustainability. In terms of long-term use, emphasis was placed on reparability. To save energy, the 96 00 is equipped with a proximity sensor.

    The 98 00 terminal will also be launched on the market shortly. It is equipped with a 10.1-inch screen and extensive functions, explains dormakaba. The 98 00 terminal thus offers “even more scope for individuality”.

  • KOF Economic Barometer falls in July

    KOF Economic Barometer falls in July

    Manufacturing industry under pressure
    In the manufacturing industry, the order situation, capacity utilization and production activity are having a particularly negative impact on development. On the other hand, inventories and orders for preliminary products and the competitive situation are having a positive effect. Within the manufacturing industry, the outlook for the electrical sector, wood, glass, stone and earth and mechanical engineering is less favorable. The outlook for the metal sector, the textile and clothing industry and the paper and printing products sector has improved.

  • Bosch strengthens Home Comfort through mega-acquisition

    Bosch strengthens Home Comfort through mega-acquisition

    The Bosch Group has taken a significant step towards implementing its 2030 corporate strategy with the acquisition of Johnson Controls’ global heating, ventilation and air conditioning solutions business and the Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning joint venture. The acquisition, which is expected to close in twelve months, includes 16 production and 12 development sites in over 30 countries. The purchase price is eight billion US dollars.

    Strengthening the Home Comfort Group
    With the acquisition, the Bosch Home Comfort Group will increase its turnover from around five billion euros to nine billion euros and increase the number of employees to over 26,000. This expansion will enable Bosch to benefit significantly from economies of scale and a complementary portfolio at the interface of heating and cooling. “The new units will become part of Bosch’s core business and strengthen our position in the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning market worldwide,” emphasizes Christian Fischer, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Management of Robert Bosch GmbH.

    Innovative and energy-efficient solutions
    The acquisition supports Bosch in its mission to provide innovative and energy-efficient solutions for climate protection and the energy transition. The focus on heat pumps and air conditioning technology fits perfectly with the company’s strategic focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Frank Meyer, Member of the Board of Management for the Energy and Building Technology business sector at Bosch, explains: “Our aim is to actively shape the market for energy and building technology and take a leading global position.”

    Expanding global market presence
    The acquisition significantly strengthens Bosch’s presence in the USA and Asia. In the USA, the focus is on Ducted solutions, which enable centralized air distribution, while in Asia, Ductless solutions and VRF systems are preferred. These technologies offer flexible and efficient heating and cooling options for different types of buildings, from small commercial spaces to large projects such as hotels or hospitals.

    Future prospects and strategic integration
    With this acquisition, Bosch is ideally positioned to benefit from the projected growth opportunities in the global market for heating, ventilation and air conditioning solutions. Jan Brockmann, President of the Bosch Home Comfort Group, sees a bright future: “The demand for climate control solutions is growing rapidly. We look forward to shaping the future of the Bosch Home Comfort Group together with our new colleagues.”

    Focus on sustainability and comfort
    Bosch is sending a clear signal for the future with this strategic acquisition. By integrating energy-efficient technologies and expanding its product portfolio, the company will be able to provide even better support to its customers worldwide. The investment in innovative solutions and the strong market position should not only contribute to the energy transition, but also improve the comfort and quality of life of many people.

  • Voting opens for the Real Estate Award 2024

    Voting opens for the Real Estate Award 2024

    Online voting takes place via the website www.realestateaward.ch. All interested parties are cordially invited to cast their vote and help select the best in the industry.

    The winners will be announced at a gala dinner at Trafo Baden on 24 October 2024. This exclusive evening offers an excellent opportunity to honour the outstanding achievements of the winners while making valuable contacts in the real estate industry and enjoying an exceptional networking experience.

  • New offices and meeting rooms completed in Bern

    New offices and meeting rooms completed in Bern

    The remodelling and renovation of the offices and meeting rooms at the Halter construction company’s Bern site have been completed. They were realised by Integral design-build AG, part of the Halter Group in Schlieren, within six months. The keys were handed over last week, according to Integral’s LinkedIn page. “By using recyclable materials such as wood, glass and metal, we have created a space that not only minimises our ecological footprint, but also reflects our values of sustainability and aesthetics,” it continues.

    The Halter site in Bern is growing and with it the “need for a larger and more inspiring working environment”, according to a Halter press release. Since the beginning of March this year, an additional 600 square metres of the former Denner site have been rented at the location in the House of Religions realised by Halter. The conversion phase, including dismantling, began in November 2023 and was successfully completed in July 2024. The expansion has increased capacity from 40 to 58 workstations. There are now also additional touchdown workstations and meeting rooms with modern equipment. The move has been successfully completed and the premises have already been filled with life.

    A particular highlight of the remodelling is the impressive staircase, which connects the two floors and creates an open and dynamic working atmosphere, according to the Halter press release.

    The Halter Group comprises a total of ten companies. The head office is in Schlieren, with further locations in Münchenstein BL, Bern, Kriens LU, Lausanne, St. Gallen and Geneva.

  • AI-supported analysis evaluates leading construction and property companies in Switzerland

    AI-supported analysis evaluates leading construction and property companies in Switzerland

    The Zurich-based swissreputation.group has teamed up with the Hamburg-based IMWF Institute to analyse the media reputation of the most important construction and real estate companies in Switzerland. For the benchmark study “Reputation of construction and real estate companies in Switzerland 2024”, all reputation-relevant statements about the selected companies from Swiss media and other online sources were analysed with the support of artificial intelligence (AI) in the period from June 2023 to May 2024.

    According to a press release, a total of 46 construction companies, property service providers, companies and owners were analysed, including 21 construction companies and property service providers and 25 property companies and owners. In total, over 26,000 statements in Swiss media were analysed using artificial intelligence.

    As in 2023, Implenia from Opfikon ZH took the top spot among construction companies and property service providers. The basis for this is the company’s outstanding visibility. According to the press release, none of the other construction companies come close to Implenia’s media presence. In second place is ERNE in Laufenburg AG, followed by SENN in St.Gallen and LosingerMarazziin Bern. They are followed by Frutiger AG in Thun BE, Eiffage in Glattbrugg, Strabag and Halter AG in Schlieren ZH, Anliker in Emmenbrücke LU and Marti in Lucerne.

    According to the press release, a highly developed, AI-supported text analysis was used to measure reputation. After pre-filtering all media articles from the selected companies, the specially trained algorithm semantically analyses the statements and assigns them to the thematic reputation dimensions of product & service, innovation, profitability, sustainability, management and employer.

    In the ranking of property companies and owners, Swiss Prime Site from Zug is in first place, followed by Mobimo from Küsnacht ZH, PSP Swiss Property from Zug and Swiss Life Asset Managers from Zurich in fourth place, with SFP Swiss Finance & Property Group from Zurich, HIAG from Basel, Fortimo from St.Gallen and Intershop from Basel coming in between fifth and eighth place. The top 10 is completed by UBS Asset Management from Zurich and Investis from Zurich.

  • 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.

  • Revizto acquires investment from Summit Partners

    Revizto acquires investment from Summit Partners

    Revizto has secured a minority stake from global investor Summit Partners, based in Boston. According to a statement from the software provider for the construction industry, the fresh capital will be invested in expanding the team of employees, in product development and in the international growth of the company. Revizto offers cloud-based software for architects and civil engineers, in which projects are available in both 3D models and 2D plans and can be processed simultaneously. The company uses an app, virtual reality, construction plans supported by QR codes and other technological advances in the so-called AECO area (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Operations). In June, the company received the Switzerland’s Best Managed Companies Award for its business ideas and management practices.

    “With Summit, we have found a partner that shares our commitment and enthusiasm for the digitalization of the AECO industry and aligns with our team’s DNA and people-oriented corporate culture,” said Arman Gukasyan, founder and CEO of Revizto, in the press release. “We are confident that this partnership will propel Revizto forward by providing us with perspectives and resources that will allow us to accelerate development and market expansion.”

    “With its innovative platform, Revizto has achieved enthusiastic user adoption across 80,000 projects worldwide and has achieved impressive, profitable growth,” said Antony Clavel, Managing Director of Summit Partners.

  • Property fund raises 610 million francs

    Property fund raises 610 million francs

    Swiss Life Asset Managers has successfully completed a capital increase for its Swiss Life REF (CH) ESG Swiss Properties property fund. According to a statement from the asset manager of the Swiss Life Group, around CHF 610 million was raised in the largest capital increase of a listed Swiss real estate fund to date. This gives Swiss Life REF (CH) ESG Swiss Properties a market capitalisation of around CHF 2.5 billion and makes it one of the five largest listed real estate funds in Switzerland.

    Swiss Life Asset Managers intends to use the new funds to purchase a property portfolio worth around CHF 700 million. Another portion of the funds will be invested in the renovation and densification of existing residential buildings. The company also plans to reduce its debt ratio to around 23 per cent.

  • New partnership promotes regional networking in Eastern Switzerland

    New partnership promotes regional networking in Eastern Switzerland

    The St.Gallen-based association IT rockt! and collektiv AG will be working together in future. According to a press release, IT rockt! Will move into premises in the coworking space collektiv (st.gallen). This means that IT rockt! will be “at the centre of events”, which will also enable the Eastern Switzerland IT cluster to expand its offering for members and employees. From September, IT rockt! will also be more flexible than before when organising events at collektiv (st.gallen).

    According to the press release, the collaboration between the two organisations will promote local exchange. This will promote regional networking. “We are very much looking forward to working with collektiv (st.gallen)”, Eva De Salvatore, Managing Director of IT rockt!, is quoted as saying in the press release. “The stimulating atmosphere creates ideal conditions for our IT community, and the region will benefit from such an enriching programme.”

    “It’s great to have a partner like IT rockt! at our side,” adds Majid Parente, founder and CEO of collektiv AG.

  • Marketplace for commercial property

    Marketplace for commercial property

    Maison (Schweiz) AG has raised a “substantial six-figure sum” in a financing round, the company specialising in the marketing of office and commercial space announced in a post on LinkedIn. The financing of the maison.work marketplace has thus been secured, it continues. The funds raised will be channelled into “technological advances, marketing initiatives and the expansion of the core team”.

    Maison (Schweiz) AG, based in Zurich, has been active in the marketing of office and commercial space for five years . The maison.work marketplace was launched in August last year. Commercial properties ranging from offices, coworking spaces and shared offices to production facilities, warehouses and retail space are offered here.

  • Swisspower launches platform for local electricity communities

    Swisspower launches platform for local electricity communities

    The municipal utility alliance Swisspower AG is launching a platform for local electricity communities (LEG). “With the Swisspower LEGhub , we are offering municipal utilities and energy suppliers an elegant solution for the administrative processing of local electricity communities, which would otherwise tie up a lot of time and resources,” said Orlando Gehrig, Head of Cooperation & Innovation at Swisspower, in a press release. Energie Thun AG, Eniwa AG, IWB, Regio Energie Solothurn and Stadtwerk Winterthur are participating in the project. LEGhub is to be integrated into the systems of energy suppliers. The resulting automation and digitalization of processes will significantly reduce the additional administrative workload for energy suppliers.

    The LEGhub takes up the idea of bringing electricity producers and consumers closer together in order to cooperate in the mutual supply of electricity. “For us at Stadtwerk Winterthur, the Swisspower LEGhub is the ideal solution for efficient LEG processing and simple support for our customers,” says Pascal Berchtold, Head of Metering Services at Stadtwerk Winterthur.

  • Snow melting and economic efficiency in practice for PVT modules

    Snow melting and economic efficiency in practice for PVT modules

    In their award-winning bachelor’s thesis at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Fabian Maag and Marc Willi investigate the potential of photovoltaic thermal modules to increase winter electricity production. The PVT modules from Sunmaxx PVT GmbH use liquid heating to melt snow off the modules and thus increase the electricity yield. Their measurements show that the targeted melting of snow can increase electricity production in winter by an average of 34%.

    Efficiency through snow melting
    The study showed that the combination of a higher inlet temperature and continuous melting during snowfall is particularly effective in minimising snow cover. This method proves particularly effective in snowy regions and also at lower altitudes, as the additional electricity yield always exceeds the required melting energy.

    Economic profitability
    The profitability analysis shows that the additional costs for installing a PVT system through snow melting are amortised from an electricity price of CHF 0.39/kWh. PVT modules are therefore not only technically but also economically attractive, particularly in regions with high snowfall.

    Recognising and promoting young talent
    Maag and Willi were honoured with the regional Siemens Excellence Award for their practice-oriented and forward-looking work and have been nominated for the national Siemens Excellence Award 2025. Gerd Scheller, Country CEO of Siemens Switzerland, emphasises the importance of promoting young talent: “With the Excellence Award, we want to motivate young people to work on scientific topics that can be put into practice.”

    Future prospects in STEM
    The Siemens Excellence Award is part of the “Future Creators” programme, which promotes dialogue with the next generation and supports young talent in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Gerd Scheller emphasises: “With this commitment, we support young people in their development and training and help them to make the most of their future opportunities.”

    Maag and Willi’s work provides valuable insights into the use of PVT modules to increase the efficiency of winter electricity production. Their findings not only contribute to the scientific debate, but also offer practical solutions to the challenges of the energy transition.

  • Manor moves into the Jelmoli building

    Manor moves into the Jelmoli building

    In February 2023, Swiss Prime Site decided to remodel and sustainably develop the Jelmoli building. The aim is to adapt the retail space to current market requirements and make the building fit for the future. In Manor, Swiss Prime Site has now found a long-term tenant that will ensure the long-term attractiveness of the building and the lower Bahnhofstrasse.

    An inspiring shopping experience in the heart of Zurich
    Manor will rent around 13,000 square metres of space and is expected to take over the ground floor, basement and first floor in 2027. Manor will open a flagship store here, which will be directly accessible from Sihlstrasse and Seidengasse. Roland Armbruster, CEO of Manor, promises an inspiring shopping experience with a varied and curated product range in the areas of fashion, beauty, home and living. A diverse range of restaurants will round off the shopping experience.

    New office space and restaurants
    Following the renovation, the upper floors of the Jelmoli building will offer around 20,000 m² of office space, providing a new top address in Zurich city centre. This office space will be complemented by a wide range of catering and leisure facilities. The newly designed roof terrace will provide additional space for catering outlets.

    Partnership between Swiss Prime Site and Manor
    The long-term rental agreement between Swiss Prime Site and Manor is a significant step for both companies. Manor will also contribute to the investments for the remodelling in order to create attractive retail space. Existing tenancy agreements, in particular with the Holmes Place fitness club, will remain in place during and after the renovation. Holmes Place will continue to offer its services to customers during the renovation phase. With Manor and Holmes Place, around half of the space has therefore already been let before the start of construction.

    A unique meeting place for Zurich
    René Zahnd, CEO of Swiss Prime Site, emphasises: “Our primary goal was to preserve the Jelmoli building as a unique destination and open meeting place. With the arrival of the Manor department stores’ group and its long-standing tradition, the Jelmoli building will be filled with new life for Zurich and the Zurich population and will shine beyond the city limits.”

    The largest department stores’ group in Switzerland
    Manor, the largest department stores’ group in Switzerland, is represented in all parts of the country and employs around 7,500 people. The Manor Group comprises 59 Manor department stores, 27 Manor Food supermarkets and 23 Manora restaurants. The company pursues an omnichannel strategy that combines online shops and services. Manor is sustainably profitable and is part of Maus Frères Holding, which also owns leading lifestyle brands such as Lacoste.

    The repositioning of the Jelmoli building with the arrival of Manor marks an important step for the future of Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse and emphasises the importance of Swiss Prime Site in sustainable urban development.

  • Industrial site in Serrières becomes Neuchâtel Innovation Park

    Industrial site in Serrières becomes Neuchâtel Innovation Park

    In collaboration with the Caisse cantonale d’assurance populaire and the Etablissement cantonal d’assurance et de prévention, the State and the City of Neuchâtel have acquired an industrial complex on Rue des Usines in Serrières. The aim is to develop and operate a new innovation centre there. To this end, the public limited company Usinnove SA was founded, in which the state holds a 40% stake and the City of Neuchâtel 20%. The remaining shares are held by CCAP and ECAP. The industrial complex covers an area of 7,000 m² and can create almost 400 new jobs.

    Central role of Microcity SA
    The new site will be managed and operated by Microcity SA. A centre of excellence for diagnostics and related technologies is to be set up, serving as a hub for companies in the fields of diagnostics and automation. Part of the complex will be converted into a business centre equipped with laboratory infrastructure and offering a collaborative project environment for large companies, SMEs and start-ups.

    Strengthening the Neuchâtel innovation cluster
    The acquired industrial complex is intended to further strengthen Neuchâtel’s position in the Swiss Innovation Park. The Serrières site offers potential for the expansion of Neuchâtel’s innovation cluster and will secure an industrial location in the long term. Neuchâtel will thus expand its offering and consolidate its position as an innovation centre.

    Strategic use of old buildings
    The purchase of the industrial complex is part of the state’s strategy to utilise old buildings for light industrial activities. This policy aims to bring start-ups, SMEs, large companies and research centres together on one site in order to meet the economic challenges facing the canton. Similar projects have already been realised at the sites Rue Jaquet-Droz 7 in Neuchâtel and Hôtel-de-Ville 7 in Le Locle, which are also home to cutting-edge applied research activities.

    An important step for Neuchâtel
    The acquisition of the industrial complex in Serrières and the planned transformation into an innovation centre are an important step for the economic development of Neuchâtel. The close cooperation between the state, the city and institutional partners will strengthen the region and create the basis for future innovations.