Who hasn't experienced this? You're at an event, whether for business or pleasure, and you only talk to people you already know. Yet events like these are wonderful opportunities to get to know other, new people. But all too often people are too shy. You don't want to come across as pushy. After all, it could lead to an awkward silence or the person you are talking to could be unpleasant in some way. For many people, it is therefore easier and more relaxed to only talk to people they already know. At least then you know where you stand. But if you don't talk to strangers at events, you run the risk of living below your means. Be it missed interesting topics and opinions, or perhaps even jobs and friends.

The fear of rejection

Admittedly, hardly anyone admits this to the outside world, because what would your friends or colleagues think if you said: "I don't want to go to the event. I don't know anyone there. And I don't want to talk to anyone. I'm just worried that I'll be a nuisance if I sit or stand next to strangers." Arguments, or rather excuses, such as "I can't go to the event, unfortunately I don't have time" are more socially acceptable.

From a purely objective point of view, you could say: "Just go there. If you approach a few people, you're bound to have a few conversations. And if someone actually rejects you, then just go to other people at the event." That's the logic. And since that sounds so plausible, most people who would like to network but don't know how to do so stress themselves out.

Suddenly, agonizing thoughts shoot through your head, which are often very (self-)destructive: "Why am I too stupid to just say to someone 'Hello, what brings you here to the event?" or 'Hello, I'm Max Mustermann. You and I don't know each other yet. How did you find out about this event?"

False expectations are deceptive

If you expect or demand of yourself that you have to meet interesting people, you are bound to fail. Because then you think and judge far too much: "What does he look like? I'm not going to see him!", "They drink beer that early? They can't be sensible people!" or "Oh, he's standing there on his own, so he can't be important!". These judgments are fatal - and nip any idea of networking in the bud.

Networking is not primarily about "only" approaching certain people, but generally people you don't know yet - without prejudice. After all, you're not supposed to spend the whole evening (or the rest of your life) with the person you've just spoken to, but you should definitely change conversation partners. And yes, sometimes there's just no spark - but other times it's instant. But that's normal. However, if you are frantically looking for clients or a new partner by networking and talking to people, you are putting yourself under far too much pressure. I'm sure you've also experienced this: people who want to sell you something right away at an event appear very desperate to others - and therefore unattractive.

How to start a conversation ...

A fairly relaxed option is to take a quick look around the event room and then introduce yourself at a bar table where there is still some space, for example, with the words "Hello, I'm Max Mustermann. May I join you?". The other people at the table are usually in the middle of a conversation but are happy to let you into their circle. It's not about entertaining the whole table straight away, but about listening first. What is the conversation about? Can you contribute something?

Ideally, you should not attract attention by giving a long monologue or even a lecture. However, this can quickly happen if you expect to inspire those present ("What could the others think if they don't realize what a brilliant person has just joined them?"). It is better to ask a good question about the topic that has just been discussed in order to show interest and ideally expand your own knowledge spectrum.

This is exactly what is crucial: asking questions to understand other people even better. Don't hold unsolicited monologues. Sympathy develops quickly when you realize that another person is genuinely interested in your own experiences and opinions.

If you can't do anything with the topic at the table at the moment, it's better not to ask or say anything about it yourself, but perhaps contribute a few minutes later when the topic is more suitable or interesting for you. Or, when something is finished, introduce another topic, for example "And what did you particularly like about the presentation by the guest speaker on stage that we heard earlier in the room?"

And when is the deal coming?

"So, what do you do?" is a very common question on first contact. However, it is important to maintain a balance between intrusiveness and indifference. If one person is too much in sales mode while the other is not in buying mode at all, it can quickly become awkward.

Changing to a more in-depth business topic afterwards has proven to be a good idea. For example, you could add the person via LinkedIn and call them a few days after making contact: "Nice that we recently spoke at the event in Berlin. I've now seen that you do A and B. I thought I'd pick up the phone for a moment because I have a valuable addition. Can we talk briefly about this?"

Networking in perfection

If you want to network properly, you don't just talk to strangers in order to sell them something, but to help them unconditionally - without any ulterior motives. In short: you support the person by giving them contacts, tips or recommendations if you have the impression that these suggestions would be of benefit to them. This strengthens your own reputation in the medium term, even if not every person you have helped will - and can - return the favor directly. The bottom line, however, is that this will make you an even more attractive person to talk to and contact, because word will increasingly get around that you are a person who sees solutions and ways forward, has many contacts and supports others without prejudice and without expecting anything in return.

Author:

Oliver Schumacher, sales trainer since 2009, networking professional and personal brand, sets new trends in the areas of knowledge transfer, learning culture and personal positioning in a likeable, well-founded manner. Under the motto "Be real", he shows how anyone can become No. 1 - whether self-employed, manager or employee. For him, the main drivers of growth are curiosity and courage, discipline and (self-)confidence.

The Swiss company has set a new course for the future as part of its 10th anniversary celebrations. Dr. Pascal Scheiwiller, CEO of the Swiss von Rundstedt: "We want to position ourselves more broadly and invest more in new business areas in addition to outplacement". To this end, von Rundstedt Switzerland has found a new suitable and financially strong partner and investor in the Alixio Group. The German company v. Rundstedt & Partner GmbH has transferred all of its shares to the Alixio Group. Sophia von Rundstedt, CEO of the German company, comments: "We have fulfilled our mission and have written a success story together with our Swiss colleagues. We are delighted that the Swiss company can now position itself even more broadly and develop further together with the Alixio Group.

The Alixio Group is the leading HR service provider in France. With targeted investments and partners, it aims to become the market leader throughout Europe. Guillaume Allais, Group CEO of Alixio, comments: "We want to implement our successful model throughout Europe. Switzerland is a key market for Europe. We are delighted to have found the best possible partner for this in von Rundstedt Switzerland". Pascal Scheiwiller, head of von Rundstedt Switzerland, will also take over the overall management of the Alixio Group in Switzerland. In addition to the von Rundstedt outplacement business, this includes three other business areas.

With the acquisition of the OTP Group, Alixio is taking over an experienced provider of assessment, coaching, new placement and labor market measures. With its own X-PM brand, Alixio is also bringing an internationally established and leading business in the field of interim management to Switzerland. And with Alixio Consulting, various HR consulting services will be provided for companies in the future.

"This investment is not primarily about growth, but rather about increasing customer benefit. More and more companies are undergoing far-reaching transformation processes. The four areas are highly synergetic and enable us to support our customers in their changes in a much more holistic way," says Pascal Scheiwiller.

Source: www.rundstedt.ch

Managers, project managers and salespeople often have to have difficult conversations in their day-to-day work. For example, when they need to give someone critical feedback. Or to resolve a conflict in a team. Or to conduct a delicate negotiation with a customer.

All of these tasks are always an emotional challenge for those affected. This is because our brain often switches to "fight" or "flight" mode in them. As in a threatening situation, we tend to either flee or attack. This in turn means

• Rational thoughts and considerations take a back seat. And:
• Due to our emotional tension, we are no longer as flexible as usual in formulating good questions and answers that are appropriate to the situation.

Don't lose your head in tricky conversational situations

How do we manage to remain calm and continue to positively influence the dynamic in such stressful situations, into which we fall - sometimes predictably, sometimes unexpectedly? Among other things, by using appropriate, goal-oriented formulations in the conversation. So we should have suitable phrases ready or internalized for such situations.

As a coach and trainer, I am often asked: "Is there a recipe for difficult conversations?" There is no one-size-fits-all solution, because the people involved in such conversations as well as the respective situations and constellations are very different. Nevertheless, many people want tried-and-tested approaches that give them confidence and help them move forward when necessary.

How do I say that? Eight effective sentences

That is why I have listed eight phrases below that have proven their worth in everyday management and work, partly because they are aimed at solving problems in partnership. This is why they are also perceived as empathetic and can be used in a variety of ways. They also help to build trust, reduce tensions and steer conversations in a productive direction.

Sentence 1: "What would be an acceptable solution for you in this situation?"

• Situation: The conversation partner blocks or shows resistance.
• Which is why the sentence helps: We often tend to want to convince other people of our solution and present it as having "no alternative", so to speak. However, pressure usually causes counter-pressure and often generates resistance. This sentence shows that you are prepared to consider the other person's perspective and signals openness. By involving your conversation partner in the solution process, you promote constructive cooperation and create space for joint (new) ideas for solving the problem.

Sentence 2: "Let's pause for a moment: It is important to me that we find a constructive, viable solution together."

• Situation: A conversation threatens to escalate or becomes heated.
• Which is why the sentence helps: This sentence acts as a "stop signal" for an escalating dynamic. It directs the focus to the goal of the conversation and helps to calm the situation. At the same time, it conveys the desire for cooperation.

Sentence 3: "I greatly appreciate you and your work. I would therefore like to address the following point openly."

• Situation: When sensitive issues need to be addressed that could put a strain on the relationship.
• Which is why the sentence helps: This sentence shows that your critical feedback is not based on a lack of appreciation from the other person. By expressing your appreciation first, you create the basis for an open, goal-oriented conversation in which your conversation partner does not feel attacked.

Sentence 4: "I have the feeling that something important is still unspoken. Is that the case and would you like to talk about it?"

• Situation: If you sense that your conversation partner is hesitating or feels uncomfortable.
• Which is why the sentence helps: This sentence creates space for honest communication. It shows that you are also aware of the non-verbal or emotional level of the conversation and are prepared to talk about personal issues such as (diffuse) fears and anxieties, hopes and expectations. This often releases tensions and blockages and leads to a deeper dialog.

Sentence 5: "I would like to make sure that we are both talking about the same thing and mean the same thing. How do you see that?"

• Situation: When it comes to important decisions or potential misunderstandings and diverging interests.
• Which is why the sentence helps: This sentence signals active listening and ensures clarity. Any misunderstandings - for example due to the different position/function - can be recognized and cleared up before they lead to major problems.

Sentence 6: "Let's take a short break to sort out our thoughts and then continue talking calmly, with a clear head."

• Situation: A conversation becomes too emotional or is deadlocked.
• Which is why the sentence helps: A break creates space to gather yourself and calm your emotions. Both sides can then continue with renewed energy and a clear focus. The solution to the problem is not postponed.

Sentence 7: "What would be the ideal next step for you in this situation?"

• Situation: If you want someone to take responsibility and you want to encourage the initiative of the person you are talking to.
• Which is why the sentence helps: This sentence encourages your conversation partner to think actively and make concrete suggestions. The word "step" is particularly helpful here, as it signals an active and goal-oriented movement. It encourages action-oriented thinking instead of getting lost in abstract, vague concepts. This encourages personal responsibility and initiative and clarifies expectations in a practicable way.

Sentence 8: "I understand that this is difficult at the moment. What can we do to make it easier for you?"

• Situation: When the person you are talking to is struggling with a challenge.
• Which is why the sentence helps: Empathy paired with a concrete willingness to help reduces the pressure on the person you are talking to without releasing them from responsibility. The word "we" in the sentence implies that the situation is not being dealt with one-sidedly. It shows that you recognize the challenge as such and are therefore actively offering support. At the same time, it involves the partner in the process and asks them to take (joint) responsibility and look for practicable solutions.

How to use the rescue kits successfully

• Tip 1: Adapt the above example formulations to your style and the respective situation. Authenticity counts!
• Tip 2: Combine the sentences with active listening techniques to further strengthen the dialog.
• Tip 3: Practice makes perfect; think about situations or conversations in which you could try out one of these sentences.

Learning helpful sentence formulations is similar to learning key phrases in a new language.

It often feels unfamiliar at first, but the more often you use the sentences, the more natural they become for you. As with language learning, these "communicative tools" allow you to react flexibly and confidently in challenging situations. And just as with learning a new language, practice and repetition are the keys to success.

About the author:

Sabine Prohaska is the owner of the consulting firm Seminar Consult Prohaska (Vienna), which supports companies in implementing a new learning culture in their organization. She also trains (online) trainers and coaches. She also regularly conducts (online) user workshops for HR professionals on the use of AI in training and personnel development.

This article originally appeared on m-q.ch - https://www.m-q.ch/de/erste-hilfe-koffer-fuer-heikle-gespraeche-rettende-saetze-in-schwierigen-gespraechssituationen/

The RICS, a globally recognized professional organization in the field of real estate and facility management, awards accreditation to the Master of Science in Real Estate & Facility Management (MSc REFM), certifying that the course has a high academic level, a strong practical orientation and close networking with the industry. Graduates thus receive an important international proof of quality, which opens up extended career opportunities for them.

International recognition and career benefits

RICS accreditation strengthens the ZHAW's position as a leading educational institution in the field of real estate and facility management. Students benefit from a number of exclusive advantages. Thanks to the accreditation, the MSc REFM gives graduates easier access to international job markets in the real estate and FM sector and thus broader career opportunities. Students and alumni have the opportunity to become part of the international RICS network and take part in exclusive events, training courses and specialist forums. RICS accreditation as independent quality assurance underlines the high academic level and practical relevance of the course, which gives graduates additional recognition on the job market.

Strategic importance for the ZHAW and the industry

The RICS accreditation is an important milestone for the ZHAW and confirms the continuous quality development of the degree program. "This recognition shows that our training meets international standards and prepares graduates in the best possible way for a successful career in the real estate and FM sector," emphasizes Isabelle Wrase, Head of the MSc REFM course.

Close cooperation with the industry, an interdisciplinary approach and practice-oriented teaching are key elements of the course. They help to prepare specialists and managers specifically for the challenges of a dynamic and increasingly digitalized real estate market.

More information

This article originally appeared on m-q.ch - https://www.m-q.ch/de/msc-real-estate-facility-management-als-erster-in-der-schweiz-rics-akkreditiert/

The role of board members has changed significantly due to economic, legal and technological developments. The demands on governance, strategic management and innovation are constantly increasing. The CAS Board of Directors HWZ therefore teaches essential skills to successfully combine corporate strategies, responsibilities and innovative strength. The focus is on the craft of board members.

Particular attention is paid to the specific challenges of owner-managed SMEs, family businesses, start-ups and growth companies as well as the impact of trends, innovation, technology and artificial intelligence. An additional excursus also provides the most important basics on foundations and their differences to VR activities.

"Board members must not only monitor, but also actively set the course for innovation and sustainable development. Our course provides precisely this practical knowledge," says Max Meister, Co-Head of the CAS Board of Directors HWZ.

The training is aimed at current and future board members, delegates and chairmen as well as members of management boards, trustees and lawyers. Managers from cooperatives, foundations and other legal forms also benefit from the practical training.

Competencies for the board of directors of the future

Participants learn how to strategically manage the business challenges of today, in particular the VUCA-BANI world and Industry 5.0, and how to ensure effective board work. They develop a practice-oriented approach to the organization and management of board committees, improve their stakeholder management and strengthen their skills in the areas of corporate governance, compliance and sustainable business model development. The course also teaches students how to recognize current digital and social trends and integrate them into corporate strategy.

"Digitalization and new business models demand more foresight and leadership from board members. Our CAS provides the necessary tools for this challenging task," adds Pascal Stocker, Co-Head of the CAS Board of Directors HWZ.

Blended learning: flexible and practical learning

The CAS Administrative Board HWZ is based on a blended learning approach. Participants prepare for the classroom sessions using a modern learning platform and specific online input. This combination of digital learning formats and interactive on-site sessions enables an optimal combination of theory and practice and promotes intensive exchange with lecturers and other participants.

The training is led by leading, high-caliber experts from business and academia who have many years of experience on boards of directors and share best practices that can be put directly into practice.

More information and registration

The first implementation of the CAS Administrative Board HWZ starts in mid-October 2025 and lasts 16 days, of which 50% of the lessons take place online. 

More information

Hightech Leinenweberei Schwob AG, based in Burgdorf BE, has been producing high-quality textiles for hotels, restaurants, clinics and residences since 1872. Around 240 employees produce bed and table linen that is valued not only in Switzerland but also internationally. In addition to production, Schwob also offers textile care services. The company combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology and consciously chooses Switzerland as its location. 

Tradition and innovation since 1872

Originally starting out as a linen weaving mill, Schwob has established itself over the decades as a specialist for durable and sophisticated textiles by constantly investing in modern weaving and manufacturing facilities. In the 1970s, the company relocated its production to Burgdorf and has continued to develop ever since. An important milestone was the entry into the textile care business in 2008. By integrating its own laundries, Schwob has created a concept that seamlessly combines production and care.

Thanks to continuous investment in technology, quality assurance and sustainable production methods, the company has positioned itself as a major player in the Swiss textile industry. In 2017, the company received the international industry award RWin and was recognized as the leading provider of textile services in Switzerland. Schwob AG celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2022.

Complete textile service from a single source

Schwob AG goes beyond mere production and offers an all-round service for its customers with five of its own laundries. From collection and cleaning to on-time delivery, the company takes care of the professional care of textiles. The full linen rental service enables the flexible use of linen without having to worry about storage, care or replacement. This combination of design, production and textile care creates an economical and sustainable solution for the hotel, catering and healthcare industries.

Responsibility for the environment and society

Sustainability characterizes the entire company - from production to textile care. Resource-conserving processes and durable materials are at the heart of production. Electricity requirements are covered entirely by renewable energies, including electricity from 100 % hydropower and photovoltaic systems. In addition, modern laundry technologies continuously reduce water consumption and CO₂ emissions. However, Schwob not only assumes ecological responsibility, but also social responsibility. The company is committed to fair working conditions and invests specifically in the training and development of its employees.

More information: www.schwob.swiss / www.svc.swiss

Prix SVC Espace Mittelland 2025

The award ceremony will take place on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, in the Kursaal Bern. Around 1,300 guests from the worlds of business, science, politics and culture are expected to attend. The Prix SVC Espace Mittelland was first awarded in 2003 and will be held for the fifteenth time in 2025. Further information.

"Although companies recognize the need to address digitalization, AI and cybersecurity, there is often a lack of accessible and practical information," explains Dudli. TechNovice aims to close this gap by pooling specialist knowledge and making it accessible.

Central topics of TechNovice

TechNovice focuses on essential digital areas that influence the economy of Eastern Switzerland:

• Artificial intelligence & automation: Analysis of how companies can optimize their processes and achieve competitive advantages through the use of AI technologies.
• Cybersecurity: Discussion on effective strategies and measures that SMEs can implement to protect themselves against increasing cyber threats.
• Transformation of the world of work: Investigating the impact of AI on traditional job profiles and identifying the newly emerging skills requirements.

In the long term, TechNovice plans to offer experts from the region a platform to share their specialist knowledge with a wider audience and thus promote the transfer of knowledge.

Need for action for companies in Eastern Switzerland

Recent studies by the OECD, the WEF Future of Jobs Report 2025 and Avenir Suisse show that traditional office jobs are increasingly being influenced by automation. Positions such as clerks, call center employees and accountants are facing significant changes as AI is able to make standardized processes more efficient. At the same time, new occupational fields are emerging in the areas of data analysis, cyber security and AI strategy, which are of crucial importance to companies.

"The key question is not whether companies should integrate digital technologies, but how they can best implement them," emphasizes Dudli. TechNovice offers well-founded information and practical approaches to support companies in making strategic decisions in the digital transformation.

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Platit AG is a leading manufacturer of PVD coating systems. These technologies increase the service life, efficiency and performance of tools and components. Headquartered in Selzach SO, the independent family-owned company employs 150 people and has installed over 650 coating systems worldwide. With service, support and sales offices in Europe, North America and Asia, the coating specialist maintains a close partnership with its customers and offers solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into existing manufacturing processes. Platit AG has established itself as the global market leader for coatings in the micro and nano range and develops the corresponding technology entirely in-house.

Flexible coating solutions for the highest demands

The company offers a wide range of high-tech coating systems that are characterized by their modular design, high flexibility and maximum user-friendliness. Customers benefit from Platit's many years of experience in cathodic arc coating, sputter coating and HiPIMS technology. These processes are used in various applications and can be integrated into hybrid processes.

In addition to the coating systems, Platit AG also develops complete turnkey systems that cover all upstream and downstream process steps of hard material coating - from decoating and edge pre-treatment to cleaning and post-treatment through to quality control. This allows the systems to be seamlessly integrated into existing tool manufacturing and regrinding processes. A key feature of Platit technology is the open source philosophy: customers can adapt the PVD coatings to their specific requirements and individual needs and drive forward their own developments. This results in tailor-made solutions with maximum coating performance that provide a decisive competitive advantage.

Increase efficiency, extend service life

Platit attaches great importance to the long-term use of its coating systems. Targeted upgrades and retrofit measures are used to modernize existing systems and significantly extend their service life. Replacing drives, pumps or control systems improves energy efficiency and contributes to economical production. As a result, customers not only benefit from high-performance coating solutions, but also from low operating costs in the long term.

Comprehensive service for maximum performance

In addition to high-quality coating systems, Platit AG offers a comprehensive service that supports customers throughout the entire product life cycle. From training and technical advice to regular maintenance and fast delivery of spare parts, the company ensures that the systems can be operated with maximum efficiency over the long term. Through close cooperation with customers and a global service network, Platit guarantees high availability and continuous performance enhancement of the systems.

More information: www.platit.com / www.svc.swiss

Prix SVC Espace Mittelland 2025

The award ceremony will take place on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, in the Kursaal Bern. Around 1,300 guests from the worlds of business, science, politics and culture are expected to attend. The Prix SVC Espace Mittelland was first awarded in 2003 and will be held for the fifteenth time in 2025. Further information.

The latest Digital Banking Maturity Study by Deloitte uses a mystery shopping method to analyze over 1,000 digital banking functions at 349 banks in 44 countries, including 12 Swiss retail banks with a combined market coverage of over 80 percent. The Swiss banks have fallen further behind in recent years: four years ago in 18th place, two years ago in 21st place and now only in 27th place.

In the first study in 2018, Switzerland still made it into the top 5. While other markets have expanded their digital offerings with mobile-first strategies, AI-supported customer interaction and innovative embedded financial services, Swiss banks have fallen further and further behind over the years.

Digital onboarding cumbersome

At least there has been progress in digital account onboarding. All but one of the Swiss banks surveyed now offer digital account opening. However, waiting times of several hours or days are not uncommon in Switzerland. International digital banks enable account openings with AI-supported real-time checks in seconds - similar to Apple Pay or Google Pay. In Switzerland, on the other hand, a video call or even a visit to a branch is often required.

"Swiss banks have made small advances in digital account opening, but compared to foreign banks, the process is still comparatively complicated and slow. In countries such as the UK, a selfie and an ID scan are sufficient for AI verification and account opening," explains Cyrill Kiefer, Banking Consulting Lead at Deloitte Switzerland.

Weak customer interaction

The smartphone is establishing itself as the primary access channel for banking transactions, especially abroad. One example of this is real-time notifications of expenses. However, only around a third of Swiss banks offer this function. The difference is even greater when it comes to intelligent savings functions. Only a few Swiss banks use AI-supported algorithms to adapt savings plans to individual spending behavior. This automation works like personalized music recommendations from streaming services based on usage behavior.

Swiss mobile banking apps also often lack basic functions that promote interaction and customer loyalty. Interactive dashboards, personalizable budgeting tools or real-time financial analyses are virtually non-existent. While digital pioneers use AI for automatic categorization and savings tips, customers of Swiss banks often have to manage their spending manually or resort to external apps. "The true value of digital banking lies not in the number of functions that are packed into an app, but in how well they meet customers' needs at the right moment," Cyrill Kiefer is convinced.

Value-added services ignored

 Leading digital banks are two and a half times more likely to offer value-added services such as public transport tickets, streaming subscriptions and financial management tools. Swiss banks are not exploiting this potential. The lag in embedded insurance services is particularly striking: Only one Swiss bank surveyed comprehensively integrates such solutions. Swiss banks are also lagging behind when it comes to automating administrative tasks: tax settlements, in-app asset management and one-click bill payments have long been standard in many global markets.

While digital pioneers implement innovations quickly, regulations and a conservative strategy are slowing down Swiss banks. They also usually lack a clear mobile-first strategy. In addition, digital pioneers use apps as a central interface, whereas Swiss apps often remain merely e-banking extensions. Instead of investing in intuitive interfaces and personalization, many banks simply focus on additional features - resulting in confusing and less user-friendly apps.

Banks award growth potential

But it is not only customer loyalty that is at risk. Important new sources of revenue also remain untapped. Digital pioneers are increasing their revenue per user through intelligent cross-selling or embedded financial products. The lack of integrated insurance, investment products and lifestyle services is a key reason why Swiss banks are missing out on growth potential compared to foreign digital champions.

"Banks must evolve from pure payment and account management providers into digital service platforms. Financial management, modern direct payment systems, subscription management, booking systems and mobility solutions must be seamlessly integrated in order to become digital everyday companions. Those who do not help shape this change risk losing an entire generation of customers," says Cyrill Kiefer.

More information about the study

This article originally appeared on m-q.ch - https://www.m-q.ch/de/schweizer-banken-fallen-im-globalen-digitalisierungsrennen-weiter-zurueck/

Olwo AG is a leading production, trading and distribution company in the Swiss timber industry. The company has been run as a family business for almost 100 years and is now in its third and fourth generation. With around 200 employees, Olwo operates two sawmills in Worb and Erlenbach as well as a planing mill in Stalden. The company offers a wide range of wood-based materials and combines tradition with state-of-the-art technology. With this versatile range, Olwo AG is an important partner for craftsmen, architects and builders.

Wood expertise since 1926

The name Olwo stands for "Otto Lädrach, Worb". What began in 1926 as a leased sawmill in Enggistein is now a broad-based production and trading company in the Swiss timber industry. In recent decades, Olwo has steadily expanded its capacities, including the expansion of the Erlenbach site and integration into an independent family holding company. At the same time, the company has continuously invested in the modernization of its infrastructure - from the renovation of the sawmills in Worb and Erlenbach to the introduction of digitalized logistics processes. There was also a change in management in 2023: After 25 years as CEO, Markus Lädrach handed over the reins to his cousin Thomas Lädrach.

Modern wood processing with precision

The cutting and processing of spruce and fir wood has been one of Olwo AG's core competencies for decades. The two sawmills are geared to customer requirements and, with their modern facilities, enable a wide range of high-quality products to be produced. The ongoing modernization of the production facilities optimizes the entire value chain. In addition, digital logistics solutions enable precise control of processes - from raw material procurement to delivery. Long-term supplier relationships secure the supply of raw materials from nearby forest areas rich in raw materials.

Sustainability and future strategy

Olwo AG is committed to the responsible use of wood, modern production methods and renewable energies. The company uses Swiss wood from sustainable forestry and uses wood and solar power to generate energy in a way that conserves resources. As part of a target agreement with the act Cleantech Agency Switzerland, Olwo has committed to reducing its energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. The company has been recognized for these efforts.

Olwo is also strategically geared towards the future: The ongoing modernization of the production facilities and investments in digital processes ensure competitiveness and efficiency. With strong roots in the Swiss timber industry, state-of-the-art infrastructure and a clear focus on sustainability and quality, the company is creating the basis for long-term growth.

More information: www.olwo.ch / www.svc.swiss

Prix SVC Espace Mittelland 2025

The award ceremony will take place on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, in the Kursaal Bern. Around 1,300 guests from the worlds of business, science, politics and culture are expected to attend. The Prix SVC Espace Mittelland was first awarded in 2003 and will be held for the fifteenth time in 2025. Further information.

The 2025 qualification phase will run from March 1 to May 1 and will take place online. The best of these will then compete at an on-site meeting on July 12 and 13 - the location has not yet been determined. This year's Swiss national hacking team will then be recruited from the most successful participants in the final round. Among other things, this team will represent Switzerland at the European Cyber Security Challenge (ECSC) 2025. This European hacking championship will take place in Warsaw from October 6 to 10.

Anyone wishing to join the Swiss hacking team must be between 14 and 25 years old and a Swiss citizen. However, anyone can take part in the qualification.

You can find more information on the SHC website.

By combining their strengths in the areas of cyber security and networks, the companies are initially offering new as-a-service functions. These include Identity and Access Management (IAM), Managed Extended Detection and Response (MxDR) and Cyber Risk Services. After the initial phase, the partnership will focus on the joint development of new solutions.

"Cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses. With our many years of experience in this area, Verizon offers solutions that protect our customers and secure their data," explains Kyle Malady. He is CEO of Verizon Business. "We are watching our customers' needs evolve and building new capabilities in cybersecurity. Partnering with Accenture is key to expanding our capabilities and delivering new and innovative products to meet our customers' most pressing needs."

"The security landscape is becoming increasingly complex, driven by new technologies, geopolitical uncertainties, global data and cybersecurity regulations, supply chain risks and a cyber skills gap. Organizations must prioritize resilience to stay ahead of evolving threats," said Manish Sharma, CEO of The Americas at Accenture. "Our solutions, combined with Verizon's core network services and deep security expertise, will enable organizations to better protect their data and operations from cyberattacks."

"Verizon's focus on security services, combined with the collaboration with Accenture, enables both companies to effectively address the growing demand for comprehensive cybersecurity solutions," said Craig Robinson. He is IDC Research Vice President, Security & Trust. "This initiative strengthens Verizon Business' market position and aligns its offerings with current market trends and customer needs."

More information

This article originally appeared on m-q.ch - https://www.m-q.ch/de/verizon-gibt-strategische-partnerschaft-mit-accenture-bekannt/