The Prix SVC Zurich Economic Area will be awarded on November 26, 2024. Five companies are in the final, one of which is Luzi AG from Dietlikon ZH. A brief portrait of this globally active family business that specializes in high-quality fragrance creations.
Dzana Muminovic - November 6, 2024
In 2022, Luzi AG moved into its new headquarters in Dietlikon, which is equipped with state-of-the-art building technology and sustainable production methods. (Image: Luzi AG / www.luzi.com)
Luzi AG, a third-generation family business, was founded in 1926 by Hermann Luzi. The company specializes in the development and production of unique fragrances that are used worldwide in personal care and household products. Luzi AG has been managed by the Altenburger family since 1952 and has firmly established itself in the international perfumery world. Today, the company supplies customers in the fine fragrance, personal care, household and industrial sectors. By expanding into international markets such as the Middle East and Latin America, as well as opening sales offices and production facilities worldwide, Luzi AG has positioned itself as a global player.
Almost 100 years of company history
The history of Luzi AG began in 1926 with the founding of the company by Hermann Luzi. In 1950, Eduard Altenburger joined the company and took over the entire share capital, thus laying the foundation for today's family management. In 1969, Luzi AG moved its headquarters to Dietlikon, where the ultra-modern production facilities are still located today. Under the leadership of the then Global CEO Jürg Koller, the company expanded into new international markets in the 1990s and opened sales offices in countries such as Germany, Dubai and the Ivory Coast.
In 2022, Luzi AG moved into its new headquarters in Dietlikon, which is equipped with state-of-the-art building technology and sustainable production methods. The company will remain loyal to Switzerland in the future, while continuing to grow globally. Since 2024, the company has been led by Roland Altenburger as Global CEO. Together with Marc Vogel, the long-standing COO with over 20 years of experience at the company, he is driving the strategic direction forward.
Environmental awareness as a corporate strategy
With the Earth-Conscious Creativity™ initiative, the company is actively committed to protecting the environment. Since 2022, Luzi AG has been producing without fossil fuels and operating its headquarters entirely with renewable energies. The heating and cooling systems are based on these sustainable energies and, together with optimized commuter traffic and a conscious approach to business travel, contribute to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition, Luzi AG invests in climate protection projects and promotes biodiversity at its sites - a clear sign that the company not only develops aesthetic but also responsible products.
The award ceremony will take place on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Kongresshaus Zurich. Around 1,500 guests from the worlds of business, science, politics and culture are expected to attend. The award ceremony will be hosted by Nik Hartmann. More information.
Fröhlich Info AG is the winner of the Phoenix Award 2024 in the category "SMEs with up to 50 employees"
When an SME manages to hold its own in the printing and publishing industry, which has been in decline for years, and write a 100-year success story, it deserves special recognition. Fröhlich Info AG received this on November 5 with the presentation of the Phoenix Award 2024 - the award for long-term Swiss entrepreneurship from the Swiss umbrella organization for corporate succession - CHDU.
Editorial - November 6, 2024
From left: Sascha Ullmann, Mayor of Zollikon, Heinz Eberle-Fröhlich, Member of the Board of Directors Fröhlich Info, Rafaela Devonas-Eberle, Managing Director Fröhlich Info, Claudia Eberle-Fröhlich, Member of the Board of Directors Fröhlich Info, Flurin Devonas, Management Fröhlich Info, Hans Jürg Domenig, President of the Swiss Umbrella Organization for Business Succession - CHDU, laudator and member of the Phoenix Award jury Anja Jenner, family entrepreneur, Samuel Mösle, Co-Head of Location Promotion of the Canton of Zurich. (Image: CHDU)
The Phoenix Award has been presented annually since 2020. The award honors Swiss SMEs that have mastered their succession planning for at least a century. Companies that have existed for such a long time have already had to overcome several crises such as world wars and economic crises and rise anew like the "Phoenix from the ashes". The focus as potential award winners is therefore on Swiss SMEs that are 100 years old in the respective year or have been entered in the Swiss commercial register for 100 years.
An SME from the canton of Zurich honored for the first time
Two generations of the family business were delighted to accept the award in person: Rafaela Devonas-Eberle and Flurin Devonas (4th generation), management, and Claudia and Heinz Eberle-Fröhlich (3rd generation), Board of Directors. A glittering milestone in the centenary year of the Zollikon-based company.
Rafaela and Flurin Devonas-Eberle, young entrepreneur couple and fourth generation, are ready for the new challenges in the media industry. (Image: CHDU)
The award certificate was presented by Hans Jürg Domenig, President of the CHDUtogether with laudator Anja Jenner, member of the Phoenix Award jury and family entrepreneur. In her laudatory speech, she praised the company with these words, among others: "To continue to exist in such a unique way - with very healthy self-confidence, incredible courage and unwavering commitment - in an industry that has been pushed back by digitalization has my full respect. This, in combination with a succession that has been initiated early on from generation to generation and has now led to a successful handover to the fourth generation, is both remarkable and worthy of emulation."
Samuel Mösle, Co-Head of Location Promotion for the Canton of Zurich, also offered his personal congratulations: "I am delighted that Fröhlich Info AG is the first SME from the Canton of Zurich to receive the Phoenix Award this year. It is an incredible achievement to keep a company 'running' for 100 years and to successfully overcome challenges ranging from succession planning to constant change in the market and the world of work. In the canton of Zurich, there are currently around 20 companies every year that succeed in doing this. Fröhlich Info AG is one of them and we, the Zurich Department of Economic Affairs, are very pleased that such companies exist. The CHDU's Phoenix Award gives such companies a showcase and can act as a beacon and inspiration for other companies. We very much welcome this."
Sascha Ullmann, Mayor of the municipality of Zollikon, also congratulated the award winners personally at their company headquarters. He was delighted that a long-established family business was once again able to successfully arrange its succession, "so that the past also has a future", as he put it.
Fröhlich Info: A company with attitude
"Welcome to a journey through 100 years of passion, innovation and family cohesion!" is the inviting first sentence of the chronicle that the family members of Fröhlich Info AG have compiled to mark their anniversary. It is an exciting journey, characterized by strong female personalities who are still running the company today in the fourth generation - always in collaboration with their husbands.
Hedwig Baumann-Zolliker, who came from a family of entrepreneurs and ropemakers, kicked things off. Together with her husband Albert Baumann, she founded "Albert Baumann-Zolliker, Seilerwaren, Lederwaren und Papeterie" in 1924, based at Fröhlichstrasse 178 in Zurich. It becomes apparent early on that advertising and printed matter are enjoying steadily growing customer demand. In line with the market and demand, the young company with its pioneering spirit gears its range accordingly, develops new ideas for business stationery, for example, and boldly sets its sights on growth. This strategy runs like a red thread through the company's history to this day. This also applies to the early involvement of the next generation in their parents' business, including the early clarification of succession.
But there is much more that makes this family-owned company a pioneer in the industry. These include the introduction of its own pension fund for employees and later the early use of digitalization to create new offerings such as speed publications. The leap into the technological age was successful and brought the company healthy growth. However, the careful use of natural resources and the environment, equality between men and women, and training for employees, especially apprentices, have always been, and still are, paramount to the company's success. In other words: Fröhlich Info AG is a company with an attitude.
Courage, change of perspective and pioneering spirit inspire the jury
A principle that, in combination with the long-term success, convinced the Phoenix Award jury and jury advisory board. They summarized the company's award worthiness in these points, among others:
Consistent and forward-looking succession planning as a fourth-generation family business with several family members working in the company
Early further development of the printing company's business model through an expanded range of IT, information and infotainment services
A major and long-standing commitment to sustainability: Comprehensive commitment to environmental and social issues, which has already won several awards
A cultural project of its own: right in the middle of Fröhlich
Entrepreneurial courage in times when publishing houses threaten to "die out": Takeover of the Zolliker Bote from TA-Media >> Preservation of a local newspaper and expansion to Zumikon four years later - Zolliker Zumiker Bote
Strong innovation potential and commitment to preserving the print industry
"What a pleasure! We are honored to receive this year's Phoenix Award. It is a great recognition and also motivation to continue to follow our strategy and to always have the courage to break new ground. Of course, this is only possible with a strong team, which is why this award is a tribute to all of us at Fröhlich Info," summarizes Rafaela Devonas-Eberle in her acceptance speech, representing the third and fourth generation.
Nicolas Roland joins the Board of Directors as General Manager of Raja Office
Nicolas Roland joined the Raja Group on 30 September 2024 as a new member of the Executive Board and took over the management of the Raja Office division, which specializes in the distribution of office supplies and equipment. In January 2025, he will succeed Alain Josse, who is retiring after more than 40 years of service, 18 of them with the Raja Group. The two managers will work together until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition.
Editorial - November 6, 2024
Nicola Roland will take over from Alain Josse in January 2025. (Image: www.raja-group.com)
Nicolas Roland will lead the strategy and development of the Raja Office division, which is represented in ten European countries with the companies Viking, Mondoffice, JPG, Kalamazoo, Bernard and Welcome Office. With a turnover of 800 million euros, Raja Office is the largest online retailer of office supplies and equipment in Europe.
"Alain Josse has contributed greatly to the development of the Raja Group since 2006. I thank him profoundly for his determination, his leadership and his human qualities. I am very pleased to welcome Nicolas Roland, whose knowledge of the business equipment market is a great strength. His mission will be to give new impetus to the development of Raja Office, to strengthen the organization and performance in order to consolidate our position in this strategic market," said Danièle Marcovici. She is President and CEO of the Raja Group.
From Hilti to Raja
Before joining the Raja Group, Nicolas Roland spent 13 years (2011-2024) in management positions at Hilti, the global manufacturer of tools and accessories for the construction industry: General Manager Western France (2022-2024), General Manager Philippines (2020-2022), Senior Vice President Logistics for the Asia-Pacific region (2018-2020) and Senior Vice President Global Distribution (2011-2018).
Nicolas Roland was previously CEO of the Odilis Group, a French medium-sized company specializing in industrial mechanics, from 2009 to 2011. Between 2001 and 2009, he worked for Osram, a leading global manufacturer of lighting products, in senior logistics positions in France, Germany, China and Hong Kong.
Nicolas Roland speaks fluent French, English and German. He studied in France and England and holds an MBA (Master of Business Administration) from Coventry University.
The toll of boredom in the workplace: how to recognize and overcome bore-out
We've all heard of burnout, but have you heard of the phenomenon of bore-out? Although the symptoms may be similar, the cause lies elsewhere. Unlike burnout, which is centered around stress and work pressure, bore-out is caused by a lack of challenge or a monotonous work environment. Bore-out can have detrimental consequences for both employees and employers. Swiss recruitment specialist Robert Walters gives some tips on how to tackle this problem and prevent bore-out.
Editorial - November 5, 2024
The consequences of bore-out are often underestimated, partly because employees are reluctant to talk about it. (Image: www.depositphotos.com)
Bore-out occurs when employees do not feel sufficiently stimulated or challenged at work. The risk is that they lose interest, become demotivated and even suffer stress or panic attacks due to boredom. Although boredom may seem harmless, persistent bore-out can have serious consequences for employees' well-being.
Possible dangers
The consequences of bore-out are often underestimated, partly because employees are reluctant to talk about it. It can feel uncomfortable to admit that you are bored at work and therefore feel stressed. However, keeping this problem to yourself can only make it worse. For companies, employee bore-out also carries risks. Too little challenge in a company can lead to a higher turnover rate, a negative impact on the working atmosphere and a bad reputation among potential new employees.
Who is susceptible to bore-out?
Not everyone is equally susceptible to bore-out, but employees with low self-esteem are more at risk. People with low self-esteem often tend to remain passive and become less active when their work no longer motivates them. They stay in the same situation because they doubt themselves and find it difficult to embrace change. Even employees with more self-confidence can be at risk, especially as bore-out is not always recognized as a serious problem.
How can you prevent bore-out?
Are you finding that your work is not challenging enough and that you are not getting enough energy and satisfaction from it? If so, you shouldn't wait too long to look for a new challenge. Here are some steps that can help you overcome a bore-out:
Recognize the problem: Admit that you are unhappy with your current situation. By acknowledging the problem, you are taking the first step towards change.
Talk about it: Discuss your feelings with someone you trust, e.g. a family member or colleague. When you talk about it, the problem becomes more tangible and you can explore possible solutions.
Strengthen your self-confidence: If you're not ready to tell your employer yet, try to boost your confidence by exercising or learning new things. This can give you a mental boost.
Take the plunge into self-employment: Sometimes it is necessary to leave your comfort zone and look for a new challenge. A new job can give you new energy and drastically reduce the risk of boredom. The satisfaction and enthusiasm for your work will come as soon as you have found a job that suits you.
If you follow these steps, you can prevent boreout from having a negative impact on your work and well-being. Recognize the problem, take action and choose a job that motivates and challenges you.
Europe's energy supply in transition: electricity producers focus on renewable energies
The ninth edition of Colombus Consulting's study on the financial health of European power producers shows that the energy sector in Europe is undergoing a transformation. Despite a continuing decline in energy consumption and increasing price volatility due to geopolitical tensions, electricity producers are sticking to their strategy of using renewable energies. In Switzerland, despite significant progress, long-term supply remains a fundamental challenge.
Editorial - November 4, 2024
The long-term energy supply in Switzerland remains a challenge, although renewable energies are making significant progress in terms of capacity. (Image: www.depositphotos.com)
The volatility of electricity prices increased in 2023, posing a major challenge for European electricity producers. Measures such as price caps and price shields are being implemented to reduce the existing uncertainty, which is partly caused by growing geopolitical tensions and fluctuations on the natural gas market. Despite everything, the return to normality remains an uncertain goal.
"The increased price volatility has a negative impact on the competitiveness of energy providers and leads to profitability problems, especially for companies that are heavily dependent on fossil fuels," says Baptiste Leflaive, Senior Consultant at Colombus Consulting.
Energy suppliers that obtain a significant proportion of their energy from fossil sources suffer more from price fluctuations, which has had a negative impact on their EBITDA. European electricity producers recorded significant revenue growth between 2021 and 2023, but the results showed considerable differences.
Alpiq improves thanks to strategic realignment
Alpiq's financial situation has improved significantly thanks to its focus on its core business and a successful diversification strategy in the area of renewable energies. The realignment, combined with effective risk management, has enabled the Swiss energy company to better withstand market fluctuations. The company continues to invest in solar and wind power plants in order to actively contribute to achieving its decarbonization goals.
Europe reduces its electricity consumption
In 2023, energy consumption in Europe fell by 6% compared to 2021, due to the switch to renewable energy and energy-saving policies in various countries. This trend is complemented by a 24% decrease in gas consumption. While electricity generation is progressing to meet the challenges of decarbonization, the recovery in demand remains uncertain. This is partly due to policy measures to save energy.
Renewable energies take pole position
European energy providers have continued to drive the switch to renewables, increasing installed capacity by 15% by 2023. Renewables have surpassed fossil fuel capacity in power generation for the first time due to their strong growth. Large capital inflows into photovoltaics and offshore wind are reinforcing this trend, making renewables the clear winner of the year.
Switzerland and the challenge of long-term energy supply
The long-term energy supply in Switzerland remains a challenge, although renewable energies are making significant progress in terms of capacity. The law on the promotion of renewable energies aims to double the production of renewable energies by 2050. "Swiss electricity producers are expanding their renewable energy capacities. This step, in combination with an agreement with the European Union, puts the energy supply on a promising course," says Baptiste Leflaive, Senior Consultant at Colombus Consulting.
Franke successfully completes the acquisition of Wesco
The Franke Group has successfully completed the acquisition of the Wesco Group, a premium supplier of extractor hoods and ventilation systems in Switzerland and Germany, which was announced in September. The relevant competition authorities have approved the transaction.
Editorial - November 4, 2024
Franke has successfully completed the takeover of WESCO (Image: www.franke.ch)
Wesco will be managed as an independent unit under the leadership of Barbara Borra and will complement and strengthen the offering of Franke Home Solutions, a division of the Franke Group. Barbara Borra, President/CEO of Franke Home Solutions: "We are very pleased with the rapid progress of the acquisition. Completion of the transaction and look forward to the integration of the WESCO Group. Together with the Wesco and berbel teams, we will focus on continuing to provide customers with a first-class service and building on existing relationships. This acquisition strengthens our offering in the cooker hood market both geographically and strategically and, most importantly, enables us to gradually achieve a leading position in Germany and Switzerland."
About Franke and Wesco
The Franke Group is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of solutions and equipment for domestic kitchens, professional catering and coffee preparation. The company has a global presence and employs around 7,700 people in 35 countries. Net sales amount to approximately 2.42 billion Swiss francs. The group of companies belongs to the Artemis Group, Switzerland.
Franke Home Solutions is a division of the Franke Group and the world's leading provider of intelligent systems and solutions for the home kitchen. The division operates worldwide and generates net sales of 932 million Swiss francs with around 4,200 employees in over 30 countries. The product range covers all areas of the kitchen and beyond - from preparation and cooking to cleaning, waste disposal and air treatment. The solutions offer an unrestricted living experience - simple, hygienic and environmentally friendly.
Founded in 1962, the Wesco Group is a leading company specializing in extractor hoods and ventilation systems for kitchens, homes, offices and schools. With around 280 employees at locations in Switzerland (Wesco AG), Germany (berbel Ablufttechnik GmbH) and Italy (Createc srl), the Group will generate net sales of 97 million Swiss francs in 2023. Wesco stands for high-quality extractor hoods and ventilation solutions "made for Switzerland". The Wesco Group combines outstanding expertise in ventilation and design and stands for the highest quality, efficiency and innovation.
CellX Biosolutions receives CHF 150,000 from Venture Kick
The ETH spin-off CellX Biosolutions has received CHF 150,000 from Venture Kick to further develop its bacterial products for the CO2-free degradation of chemicals and to improve scaling for industrial applications.
Editorial - November 4, 2024
From left: Christian Engler (Head of Technology), co-founder Geoffrey Besnier (COO), founder and CEO Dr. Estelle Clerc, Dr. Fabienne Kurt (Head of Product Development) (Image: www.venturekick.ch).
Industrial chemical waste is a global challenge. Conventional disposal methods such as incineration lead to high costs and CO2 emissions. In addition, existing biological approaches are often limited in their scalability and efficiency, highlighting the urgent need for improved waste management solutions.
The ETH spin-off CellX Biosolutions combats chemical pollution with powerful bacterial degradation products. These enable CO2 emission-free degradation of industrial pollutants. Using a microfluidic tool, CellX identifies unique bacteria with high degradation performance that can break down harmful chemicals such as PFAS and pharmaceuticals even in remote environments. This sustainable approach offers an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional disposal methods.
CellX plans to serve a market of over USD 1 billion
The market for the treatment of hazardous chemical waste is expected to reach USD 48 billion by 2027 due to stricter environmental regulations and the growing demand for sustainable solutions. CellX Biosolutions has great potential in this area with its products for high-priority pollutants. The company already has strong customer contacts in the early stages and plans to serve a market of over USD 1 billion, including large PFAS manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies looking for environmentally friendly waste management solutions.
CellX will use the CHF 150,000 from Venture Kick to accelerate business and product development, contributing to its pre-seed round of CHF 1.2 million. This is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025.
The CellX team is made up of founder and CEO Dr. Estelle Clerc, who has a doctorate in microbiology, co-founder and COO Geoffrey Besnier, product manager Dr. Fabienne Kurt and technical manager Christian Engler. All of them bring specific expertise to the company.
"Venture Kick has enabled us to achieve important milestones: building partnerships, securing expert legal advice and gaining visibility with investors. This support has been critical to our business and product development. Since the start of the program in February 2024, we have secured USD 1.2 million in support and set CellX up for growth in the industry," emphasized CEO Estelle Clerc.
Prix SVC Economic Area Zurich 2024: Hawa Sliding Solutions AG
The Prix SVC Zurich Economic Area will be awarded on November 26, 2024. Hawa Sliding Solutions AG, based in Mettmenstetten ZH, is one of the finalists. A brief portrait of this global technology and market leader for sliding solutions.
Dzana Muminovic - October 30, 2024
Hawa Sliding Solutions AG uses energy-efficient materials and relies on automated production processes to manufacture durable and environmentally friendly products. (Image: Hawa Sliding Solutions AG / www.hawa.com)
Hawa Sliding Solutions AG, based in Mettmenstetten, is a leading provider of innovative sliding solutions that make rooms, furniture and façades more functional and flexible. With around 240 employees, two production sites in Switzerland, branches in the USA, Dubai and Singapore and over 200 sales and specialist partners, Hawa supports its customers worldwide in choosing and using the right sliding solution for their individual requirements.
From pioneer to market leader
Founded in 1965 by brothers Otto and Karl Haab, Hawa began on just five square metres with the aim of revolutionizing sliding technology. With inventions such as plastic-coated rollers in the 1960s and the first "Hawa Turnaway" turn-and-slide fitting, the company made a decisive impact on the market early on. The market launch of the "Hawa Junior" in the 1980s and the development of the "Variotec" curve technology for sliding glass walls in the 1990s cemented the company's position as a pioneer in the industry.
Today, the company is managed by Gregor and Heinz Haab, the sons of the founders, and remains true to its pioneering tradition. With over 60 product families and more than 350 patents worldwide, Hawa Sliding Solutions is one of the leading companies in the industry.
Excellent quality and design
One example of the company's innovative strength is the Hawa Concepta III sliding system, which won the Kitchen Innovation Award at the Ambiente trade fair in Frankfurt in 2024. The annual award recognizes outstanding products in the kitchen and kitchen equipment sector that impress with their functionality, ease of use and design.
Sustainability and social commitment
Hawa Sliding Solutions AG attaches great importance to sustainability in several areas of its business activities. One example of this is the development of intelligent façade shading systems that contribute to improving energy efficiency and comfort in buildings. These systems regulate solar radiation and reduce energy consumption for cooling. In addition, the company develops solutions that are not only functional, but also contribute to reducing the carbon footprint by using energy-efficient and sustainable materials.
Hawa also takes responsibility in the social sphere: with the Hawa Student Award, an ideas competition for architecture students, the company has been supporting innovative concepts for sustainable space solutions since 2010. Every two to three years, students from Switzerland, Germany and Austria are invited to present their creative solutions to current challenges.
The award ceremony will take place on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Kongresshaus Zurich. Around 1,500 guests from the worlds of business, science, politics and culture are expected to attend. The award ceremony will be hosted by Nik Hartmann. More information.
"Quo vadis sustainable economy?" - Future perspectives at the ö 2024 forum
For the 35th time, the öbu association brought together experts from business, science and society in Zurich on October 23 to discuss the challenges of sustainable management.
Dzana Muminovic and Thomas Berner - October 28, 2024
Olmar Albers, öbu Managing Director, in conversation with Stefanie Egger and Justus Kunz at the ö 2024 Forum (Image: Thomas Berner).
Marina Hasler, Managing Partner of the Impact Hub, and Olmar Albers, Managing Director of öbu, kicked off this year's ö Forum with an interactive Q&A session. Participants were encouraged to stand up for "yes" answers to get a sense of their own familiarity with the topic. This warm-up was intended to get the audience in the mood for this year's motto "Quo vadis sustainable economy?". Under this guiding principle, the topics that are often on the periphery of sustainable business took center stage and highlighted the opportunities that sustainability offers for the environment, companies and employees.
The event, which brings together around 200 personalities from business, science, innovation and society every year, serves as a platform for the exchange of ideas on future-oriented business models that demonstrate the potential of a sustainable approach. With varied breakout sessions and keynote speeches on topics such as "Strengthening companies through a biodiversity strategy" and "The role of climate design in companies", the forum shed light on new perspectives and solutions for sustainable business.
The role of ESG data in business processes and corporate culture
In the opening keynote "Data-driven insights into the opportunities of the sustainable economy", Stefanie Egger, member of the Executive Board of Crif AG, and Prof. Dr. Justus Julius Kunz from the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland shed light on the future of the sustainable economy in Switzerland. The central questions were: Where is the Swiss economy heading? Where are we today? How can we move sustainability out of the realm of mere compliance?
Stefanie Egger pointed out the central role that ESG data plays in sustainable corporate governance. Crif AG evaluates companies on the Swiss market using secondary and primary data, with the Synesgy platform providing clients' primary ESG data in particular. Secondary data is based on publicly available information and industry averages, while primary data is collected directly from counterparties or suppliers. She added that simply collecting ESG data is not enough. Companies need to integrate it specifically into their business processes in order to benefit from sustainable strategies. Regular certifications also promote long-term improvements, as companies deal intensively with sustainability issues. Companies with good ESG values, such as lower CO₂ emissions, often also benefit from better financial conditions, such as more favorable interest rates on loans.
Following Stefanie Egger's presentation, Justus Julius Kunz focused on the role of corporate culture in the implementation of sustainability. He emphasized that ESG sustainability must not only be integrated into business processes, but must also be anchored in the corporate culture in order to secure long-term competitive advantages. Active CO₂ management is central to economic ESG success. Benchmarks help to measure progress and identify opportunities for improvement. However, a comprehensive transformation at all levels of the company with the active involvement of employees is crucial for a sustainable market position. Companies that pursue this approach not only benefit from innovative strength, but also from a stronger position on the labor market, as the younger generation in particular attaches importance to authentic sustainability.
Final discussion at the ö 2024 Forum: Stefan Gara, Stephan Lienin and Matthew Gardner from Sustainserv (from left to right). (Image: Thomas Berner)
Sustainable value creation - a global perspective
In the closing keynote at the ö 2024 forum, Dr. Stefan Gara, Senior Advisor at Sustainserv and Member of the Vienna State Parliament, and Dr. Matthew Gardner, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Sustainserv, discussed various approaches and current developments in the USA and the EU under the moderation of Dr. Stephan Lienin, also Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Sustainserv. Gardner criticized the increasing politicization of sustainability concepts in the US, where ESG is often referred to as "woke" - an attitude he sees as a hindrance to risk management and competitive strategies. Gardner explained that ESG is a strategic necessity for companies to minimize risks and maximize opportunities, regardless of political terms.
Gara pointed out the importance of planning security through European regulations such as the Green Deal, which also encourage Swiss companies to adapt to sustainability standards. The discussion made it clear that close cooperation between companies and local administrations is required for successful sustainable value creation, such as through the City of Vienna's "climate alliances". These promote partnerships that contribute to decarbonization and increased efficiency. Both experts emphasized that such cooperation and a clear focus are essential in order to secure sustainable value creation in the long term and keep companies competitive.
Breakout sessions play an important role at Forum ö. Five such workshops were held again this time, where various topics were discussed in small groups.
The breakout sessions at the ö 2024 forum focused on four topics: biodiversity, green communication, data management and climate risks. The latter was the subject of two workshops. After all, climate risks will probably have to be considered more and more by all companies in the future, as they can have a variety of effects - if not directly on a company itself, then most likely on the supply chains. After all, when major weather events affect entire regions, production comes to a standstill for a long time. From 2015 to 2023, the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TFCD) dealt with such issues and provided information on what companies should do to mitigate the risks of climate change. They should also make this transparent in climate-related financial information. Based on the work of this task force, the "Climate Design" concept was developed, which was explained by Stephan Lienin, Dr. Stefan Gara and Dr. Matthew Garnder from Sustainserv GmbH. Climate Design is an innovation-oriented approach for companies that focuses on minimizing climate impact while optimizing business performance. By strategically managing the intelligent use of all resources - such as energy, materials, people and partnerships - along the value chain, the concept of Climate Design addresses environmental and social challenges, increases resilience and provides competitive advantage by aligning economic goals with climate responsibility.
GS1 Switzerland hosted a breakout session on the topic of the circular economy and how data management can become a driver of this. The organization, which developed the well-known barcode (also known as the EAN code) and made it a global standard, is also promoting a digital product passport (DPP) for the circular economy. This allows important product data to be traced or supplemented throughout the entire life cycle, as well as for the reuse of a product. "Only machine-readable data makes a functioning circular economy possible," says Dominik Halbeisen, Solutions Expert at GS1 Switzerland. A unique product ID enables the traceability of goods along the entire value chain and also includes the entire history of a product. The EU is making progress in this regard: DPPs for textiles, steel and batteries are to be implemented by mid-2027. Other areas should - or must - follow, because in principle every product is DPP-capable. In this context, the GS1 experts showed the participants how to create a simple DPP themselves.
Suissetec Campus: Lighthouse of building technology
The Suissetec Campus in Lostorf SO is the first Minergie site in Switzerland. In November, a pioneering new building for building technology will be opened. Müller Wüst AG, a Debrunner Acifer company, has created a digital fabrication model for it as a sponsor.
Editorial - October 25, 2024
In future, the Suissetec Campus will supply itself 100 percent with renewable, CO2-neutral energy. (Image: Patrick Lüthy)
The Suissetec Campus in Lostorf, Solothurn, is one of three training centers of the Swiss-Liechtenstein Building Technology Association Suissetec. The association is currently expanding and modernizing the campus. The first step was to add a new two-storey building to the training center, which houses modern workshops, laboratories and training rooms.
Interdisciplinary training and hybrid forms of learning
Modern infrastructure creates new opportunities in education and training: Digital tools allow for flexible, hybrid forms of learning. In the workshops, plumbers and heating engineers will work together on an interdisciplinary basis in future, and plumbing work, for example, can be practiced 1:1 in a concrete shell as an outdoor work station. "The apprentices will work with real materials, but also practice digitally with virtual reality glasses," explains Suissetec Director Christoph Schaer.
First certified Minergie site
In future, the Suissetec Campus will supply itself 100 percent with renewable, CO2-neutral energy. The main pillars of the energy concept are photovoltaic systems and a combined heat and power plant. The new building carries the Minergie A label, which certifies, among other things, that the building produces more energy than it consumes over the year and is CO2-free in operation. In September 2023, the Suissetec Campus became the first site in Switzerland to receive the Minergie site certificate.
Digital fabrication model from Müller Wüst
Müller Wüst AG, which belongs to Debrunner Acifer AG, has developed a digital fabrication model of the plumbing and heating pipes in new buildings as a service sponsor. The 3D fabrication model is at the heart of the MW method developed by Müller Wüst. Managing Director Stefan Wüst explains: "The MW method uses digital technologies and model-based processes for a precise assembly process designed for maximum efficiency."
He is convinced that model-based work will prevail: "Installations can be completed twice as quickly as with conventional processes - this is the assembly method of the future." On November 16, suissetec will celebrate the opening of the new building with an open day.
The Prix SVC Zurich Economic Area will be awarded on November 26, 2024. Five companies are in the final, one of which is Hauenstein AG from Rafz ZH. A brief portrait of this traditional and innovative company in the "green sector".
Dzana Muminovic - October 23, 2024
Sustainability has always been firmly anchored in the corporate philosophy of Hauenstein AG. (Image: Hauenstein AG / www.hauenstein-rafz.ch)
Hauenstein AG, based in Rafz ZH, is one of the leading tree nurseries and garden centers in Switzerland. Founded in 1890 by Walter Hauenstein, the family business has made a name for itself over 130 years by specializing in the production of hardy plants. With around 180 employees, Hauenstein AG now operates a tree nursery in Rafz and four garden centers in Rafz, Zurich, Baar and Winterthur. Under the leadership of Rainer Marxsen, who has been in charge of operational management since 2013, the company focuses on tradition, sustainability and innovation.
Pioneer in the "green sector"
What began in 1890 as a small tree nursery on nine acres of land quickly developed into one of the leading companies in the Swiss horticultural industry. In 1960, the company was transformed into a public limited company and in the same year, Hauenstein opened Switzerland's first garden center in Zurich. This laid the foundations for the company's current success.
Another milestone in the company's history was the expansion of the show garden in Rafz in 2013 and the opening of the Botanica restaurant, which revolutionized the shopping experience for customers. In the same year, Hauenstein AG received the Taspo Award as the best company-run garden center in Europe - proof of its innovative strength and commitment to the highest quality.
Sustainability as a cornerstone
Sustainability has always been firmly anchored in the corporate philosophy of Hauenstein AG. Around 75 % of the plants on offer come from the company's own production of native, hardy plants that are certified with the "Suisse Garantie" label. The plant cultures have been irrigated with Rhine water since 1979. This is an environmentally friendly system that completely avoids the use of drinking water. In addition, Hauenstein AG has not used peat in container plant production since 2002 and instead relies on plant strengthening agents instead of chemical pesticides.
The new pot hall in Flaach, which is equipped with a photovoltaic system, was completed in April 2024. The majority of the electricity generated is used in production, in the social areas and for charging electric vehicles, while surplus energy is fed into the public grid. This represents a further step towards a sustainable energy supply.
Commitment to the common good
Every year, the company supports charitable projects that are in line with its corporate values. In 2023, for example, the "Hortipharr" project in Côte d'Ivoire was supported for the fourth time, creating local jobs and promoting agricultural development - a sign of the company's long-term social commitment.
The award ceremony will take place on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Kongresshaus Zurich. Around 1,500 guests from the worlds of business, science, politics and culture are expected to attend. The award ceremony will be hosted by Nik Hartmann. More information.
Artificial intelligence is changing 92 percent of IT jobs
92% of IT jobs will change significantly or moderately due to advances in artificial intelligence. Entry-level and mid-level IT professionals are particularly affected: 40 percent of mid-level positions and 37 percent of entry-level jobs will change significantly.
Editorial - October 23, 2024
The international study provides the first insight into the impact of artificial intelligence on the 47 most important jobs in information technology (IT). (Image: www.depositphotos.com)
Fundamental AI skills and AI ethics will become more important in all IT jobs in the future. Jobs such as AI/ML engineer, data scientist, project manager, software engineer or UX designer will change the most. This is shown by the study "The Transformational Opportunity of AI on ICT Jobs". It was compiled under the leadership of Cisco with members of the AI-Enabled ICT Workforce Consortium - Accenture, Eightfold, Google, IBM, Indeed, Intel, Microsoft and SAP. The international study provides the first insight into the impact of artificial intelligence on the 47 most important jobs in information technology (IT). The definition of the most important IT jobs is based on analyses by the job board Indeed, which is part of the consortium. The roles were selected based on the most IT job postings from February 2023 to February 2024 in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and the USA.
"AI tools such as ChatGPT are profoundly changing the world of work, and this particularly affects IT jobs," says Christopher Tighe, Managing Director of Cisco Switzerland. "We need to help IT professionals around the world and in Switzerland to benefit from the new opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. There is a lot to be done in the areas of general AI skills, AI ethics and prompt engineering in particular, as these skills are becoming more important in most IT professions."
Almost every IT job is influenced by AI
The study provides an overview of the impact of artificial intelligence on IT workplaces. Here are the key findings:
92 percent of the IT workplaces surveyed will change significantly or moderately as a result of artificial intelligence.
40 percent of mid-level jobs and 37 percent of entry-level jobs will change significantly.
Certain skills are becoming increasingly important, for example in the areas of AI ethics and responsible AI, AI knowledge, prompt engineering, large language models, agile methods and data analysis.
Other skills are becoming less important, such as basic programming and language skills, traditional data management, content creation, documentation maintenance, SQL and information research.
Knowledge of AI ethics and general AI knowledge will become more important in all IT jobs in the future
Some AI skills will become particularly important for IT jobs in the future. Above all, general AI skills as well as AI ethics and responsible AI will become more important in every job. Prompt engineering will become more important in two thirds of jobs. By contrast, basic programming skills (for 31% of occupations), content creation and data management (18% each), information research (16%) and documentation maintenance and SQL (13% each) will become less relevant.
The top 10 technical skills that are expected to increase in importance and the top 10 technical skills that are expected to decrease in importance (in % of occupations). (Image: www.cisco.ch)
According to the study, three occupational groups are most affected by AI: "Testing and quality assurance", "Design and user experience" and "Business and management". Two thirds of professions in testing and quality assurance and two thirds in design and user experience are undergoing major changes. At 62.5 percent, the proportion for business and management is almost as high. Here, artificial intelligence has a particularly strong influence on roles such as business analyst, customer service, digital marketing or project manager. Cybersecurity and data science are well behind, each accounting for a quarter of the rapidly changing IT jobs. The least change due to AI is expected in the area of "IT infrastructure and operations".
Distribution of high, moderate and low transformation in the professional family groups. (Image: www.cisco.ch)
In concrete terms, this means, for example: In the field of cybersecurity, the occupational field of Information Security Specialist is heavily affected by AI. In German, the role is often referred to as an IT security expert. The main task is to identify signs of security risks, vulnerabilities and attacks. Until now, manual and automated analyses have been used to check components such as software, networks, firewalls and access points. AI will increasingly take over these checks and also automatically ward off attacks or close security gaps. In future, information security specialists must be able to decide exactly which processes to automate or release manually.
Other IT professions that are changing the most as a result of AI include AI/ML Engineer, Business Analyst, Cloud Engineer, Data Scientist, Network and IT Automation Engineer, Product Design Engineer, Project Manager, Software Engineer and Tester as well as UX Designer. The job roles of Cybersecurity Analyst, Ethical Hacker and Soc Analyst Level 1 are moderately affected by AI.
The consortium is committed to training and offers over 100 free AI courses for IT jobs
The members of the consortium see how urgent and important their joint activities are in view of the increase in AI in all areas of the economy. To this end, they want to develop career paths, particularly in areas that are increasingly using AI technologies. There are dedicated AI training courses for all the IT jobs described, most of which are available free of charge. Training courses such as "Ethical Hacker", "AI Security Nuggets", "Cybersecurity Essentials", "Prompt Engineering Skills" and "Cyber Threat Intelligence" can be booked on the consortium's website.
The members of the consortium have also set themselves ambitious goals for training programs that will help over 95 million people worldwide over the next 10 years. These include, among others:
Cisco wants to train 25 million people in cyber security and digital skills by 2032.
IBM wants to equip 30 million people with digital skills by 2030, including 2 million in the field of AI by the end of 2026.
Intel wants to train more than 30 million people in the field of AI by 2030.
Microsoft aims to train and certify 10 million people in digital skills by 2025 - and has exceeded this target one year earlier than planned with 12.6 million people trained and certified.
SAP wants to train 2 million people worldwide by 2025.
Google wants to provide over 130 million dollars for the global promotion of AI training and skills.
Lydia Logan, Vice President of Global Education and Workforce Development at IBM, emphasizes that the report's findings highlight the urgent need for training and development. She says: "Now everyone in the IT sector - from students to employees to companies - has the data on what jobs will change, how they will change and what individuals and employers can do to prepare for this change and remain competitive in the evolving global labor market."
Nicole Helmer, Vice President & Global Head of Development Learning at SAP, agrees and also emphasizes the relevance of overarching skills. She says: "The study shows: In addition to the undeniable need for responsible AI development and broad AI skills across all IT professions, all employees need to improve their higher-level skills such as critical thinking, creativity and complex problem solving. After the initial adoption of AI, we believe that assessing the secondary impact of these skills shifts will clarify which skills will be common in the future and which will be needed to differentiate."
Christy Pambianchi, Executive Vice President and CPO of Intel Corporation, sees AI as a major game changer with far-reaching potential. She adds: "We believe that AI represents a paradigm shift with great potential to create new opportunities and tools. Our goal is to drive AI forward responsibly so that it contributes to solving the world's biggest challenges. Training, upskilling and reskilling employees in the use of AI and critical thinking is essential for our workforce and the next generation of innovation."
Naria Santa Lucia, General Manager at Microsoft, agrees and emphasizes the importance of equipping the workforce with the necessary AI skills. She explains: "AI can be a tool that supports workers around the world, but they also need to have the skills to use it. That's why Microsoft is committed to helping people and communities around the world acquire new and necessary AI skills. This new report makes important recommendations to lead the global workforce into the future."
