This open access book focuses on Switzerland-based medium-sized
companies with a longstanding export tradition and a proven dominance in
global niche markets. Based upon in-depth documentation and analysis of
36 Swiss companies over their entire history, an expert team of authors
presents several parallels in the pathways and success factors which
allowed these firms to become dominant and operate from a high-cost
location such as Switzerland.
The book enhances these insights by providing detailed company profiles
documenting the company history, development, and how their relevant
global niche positions were reached. Readers will benefit from these
profiles as they compile a diverse selection of industries, mainly
active within the B2B sector, with mostly mature companies (60 years to
older than 100 years since founding) and different types of ownership
structures including family firms.
'Masterpieces of Swiss Entrepreneurship' brings unique learning
opportunities to owners and leaders of SMEs in Switzerland and
elsewhere. Findings are based on detailed bottom-up research of 36
companies -- without any preconceived notions. The book is both
conceptual and practical. It fosters understanding for different choices
in development pathways and management practices.
Matti Alahuhta, Chairman DevCo Partners, ex-CEO Kone, Board member of
several global listed companies, Helsinki, Finland
Start-up entrepreneurs need proven models from industry which
demonstrate the various paths to success. "Masterpieces of Swiss
Entrepreneurship" provides deep insights highlighting these models and
the important trade-offs entrepreneurial teams must consider when
choosing the path of high growth or of maximum control, as they are
often mutually exclusive.
Gina Domanig, Managing Partner, Emerald Technology Ventures, Zurich
