Opmaak 1 - The European Times

LUXEMBOURG
World’s eigth-largest
financial sector
SWITZERLAND
A long and stable
tradition of trade
LUXEMBOURG
Content
Content
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American Chamber of
Commerce
4
Luxembourg Stock
Exchange
5
Banking/Finance/Consulting
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ABBL
6
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Central Bank
7
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Banca Lombarda
International
8
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UBS
11
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Ernst & Young
12
Business-friendly
government encourages
further investment
Construction Industry
●
Giorgetti Carlo
13
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AP Kieffer Omnitec
15
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Tarkett
17
Steel Industry
●
Trefilarbed
19
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Galvalange
20
Energy/Heating Products/
Plastics Industry
●
Soteg
22
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Comptoir des Fers
et Métaux (CFM)
24
Husky
26
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Logistics
●
Arthur Welter
28
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Cobelfret
30
Business and Leisure
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Hilton
32
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Sheraton
34
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Studio Hotel Piemont
36
Jean-Claude Juncker
Prime Minister
Henri Grethen
Minister of Economy
Luxembourg, which was founded in 963 and became a grand duchy in 1815,
gained full independence in 1867. Despite its relatively small size, good governance and strategic decisions regarding economic direction have ensured that
the country has prospered in the last 50 years.
Luxembourg joined NATO in
1949 and in 1957 became one of the
six founding countries of the
European Economic Community –
which later became the European
Union. Luxembourg has maintained
a stable, high-income economy with
solid growth, low inflation and low
unemployment.
Business-friendly
regulations
Today the service sector dominates in Luxembourg. Banking and
insurance accounts for 23.4 per cent
of GDP, with commerce, hotels and
restaurants, and transport accounting for 22.8 per cent of GDP. Henri
3
Grethen is proud to say that major
companies such as DuPont de
Nemours and Goodyear have chosen
Luxembourg. "Our regulations are
business-friendly and therefore many
international companies do place
their European headquarters in
Luxembourg," he explains.
Henri Grethen believes that
Luxembourg has a number of unique advantages. "Taxation is interesting for companies of all sizes. We are
not a tax paradise, but certainly can
compete," he points out. "Obviously
the central location is important for
many companies, especially offering
a big advantage to logistics companies. Our workforce is multilingual,
and therefore we offer a great platform for international companies."
LUXEMBOURG
American Chamber of Commerce
An essential resource for
foreigners in Luxembourg
The
American
Chamber
of
Commerce in Luxembourg has
positioned itself as the preferred partner for all foreign investors and residents. As chairman and CEO Paul
Schonenberg puts it,
"We
want to be here for all the foreigners
living in Luxembourg, and we provide practical advice concerning
doing business and living here."
In addition to assisting foreign
investors
and
residents,
the
American Chamber of Commerce is
active
in
promoting
very
Luxembourg internationally and in
improving the quality and competitiveness of the country’s business sector as well as Luxembourg’s quality
of life. The chamber organizes a
number of networking activities to
bring members together for their
mutual benefit, as well as major conferences to promote Luxembourg
and to provide members with additional international contacts. This
year, for example, the chamber organized an international conference
on innovation and intellectual capital in addition to a number of other
meetings and social events.
Paul Schonenberg points out that
the
American
Chamber
of
Commerce has a varied membership
that includes individuals, small and
medium-sized companies and multinationals. Its members re-present
diverse nationalities; the chamber
serves all foreigners in Luxembourg,
not just Americans.
The benefits
of membership
Concerning the benefits of membership, Paul Schonenberg says, "You
have the opportunity to actually
influence things that are important
to you or to your company, and you
also benefit from the assistance we
can offer." Such assistance includes
everything from finding the right
local business partner to advice
about educational institutions. For
foreigners living and working in
Luxembourg,
the
American
Chamber of Commerce is an essential resource.
Peter Terpeluk Jr. VS ambassador
Government open and accessible
US ambassador Peter Terpeluk Jr. is extremely positive about
Luxembourg’s business environment, describing it as an open, successful and dynamic economy. "Luxembourg is a great place for multinational companies as a result of easy access to government ministers," he
explains. "There are many American companies already based in
Luxembourg, and many more will come because of the government’s
proactive attitude."
Peter Terpeluk believes that a strong track record in the past is a good
indicator of continuing success. "I see a great future in Luxembourg," he
indicates. "It has done well in the past and I believe it will also do well in
the future."
4
LUXEMBOURG
Banking and Finance
Luxembourg Stock Exchange
Continuous innovation
ensures ongoing success
Reflecting Luxembourg’s significance as an international financial
capital, the Bourse de Luxembourg
(the Luxembourg Stock Exchange),
incorporated in 1927, is today one
of the world’s most important capital markets, with 79 member firms
from Europe, Asia and North
America. The exchange lists over
12,000 securities from 2,800 issuers
in 80 countries.
The
Luxembourg
Stock
Exchange is known as a market for
debt securities, and Eurobonds are
its lifeblood. The exchange holds
around 63% of the international
bond market and this year celebrated its 40th anniversary of listing
Eurobonds.
Explaining
the
exchange’s outstanding perfor-
the Portuguese exchange BVLP
(Bolsa de Valores de Lisboa e Porto).
As Michel Maquil points out, "We
cooperate with Euronext, and this
cooperation has brought wider services to our clients."
“We listen to the
demands of the public
and innovate with the
products that our
clients need."
Michel Maquil
president and CEO
mance, president and CEO Michel
Maquil says, "Our success is to adjust
to the current market. We listen to
the demands of the public and innovate with the products that our
clients need."
Wider services to our
clients.
The
Luxembourg
Stock
Exchange broadened its reach
through the 1998 Benelux Alliance
with the Amsterdam and Brussels
stock exchanges and the EuronextLuxembourg Stock Exchange crossmembership and cross-access agreement in 2000. In 2002, Euronext
acquired LIFFE (the London
International Financial Futures and
Options Exchange) and merged with
5
The Stock Exchange has long
been committed to using state-of-theart technology; all Luxembourg-listed securities have been traded
through the Automated Trading
System (SAM) since 1996. The
exchange’s new consultation portal
allows even greater transparency.
Michel Maquil explains, "This consultation portal will initially enable
both professional and retail investors
to retrieve high-added-value information and documents for investment.
A search tool will be supplied to
browse through the database, containing current and historical net asset
values for more than 11,500 types of
shares, descriptive and reference
data, and over 10,000 electronic
documents such as prospectuses,
annual and semi-annual reports, and
financial statements."
Confident about the future,
Michel Maquil adds, "We are proactive now and will continue to be so."
LUXEMBOURG
Banking and Finance
Association of Banks and Bankers
of Luxembourg (ABBL)
Banking association
promotes world’s
eighth-largest financial sector
The Association of Banks and Bankers of Luxembourg
(ABBL), founded in 1939, has grown rapidly along
with Luxembourg’s financial sector, now the eighthlargest in the world.
According to Lucien Thiel, head of the ABBL,
Luxembourg’s quick decision-making, multilinguism,
traditional and international approach, and strong internal stability are key reasons the country is increasingly
seen as an attractive base in the EU. Head of the ABBL,
Luxembourg’s quick decision-making, multilinguism,
traditional and international approach, and strong internal stability are key reasons the country is increasingly
seen as an attractive base.
“Luxembourg will remain
the first choice for any private
client looking for efficient asset
management.”
The first choice for any private client
As for the future of Luxembourg’s financial sector,
Lucien Thiel points out, "Thanks to both its size and its
long experience, Luxembourg will remain the first
choice for any private client looking for efficient asset
management.
Specialised areas
While offering the widest possible range of products
and services to both corporate and private clients,
Luxembourg will continue to evolve in specialised areas,
thus including all activities and products related to asset
management. financial sector, Lucien Thiel points out,
"Thanks to both its size and its long experience,
Luxembourg will remain the first choice for any private
client looking for efficient asset. "
Lucien Thiel
head of ABBL
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LUXEMBOURG
Banking and Finance
Central Bank
Financial sector
shows remarkable
resilience
According to Yves Mersch, governor
of Luxembourg’s Central Bank,
Luxembourg’s economic policy has
traditionally been focused on maintaining macro-economic stability,
and for many years the country saw
a budget surplus, with virtually no
debt or inflation.
Given the global economic
downturn coupled with pension expenditures and fiscal reforms, Luxembourg
has seen this surplus decline, but the
account surplus remains strong, thanks
to the net exports of services from the
financial sector.
Luxembourg and its
financial centre
Yves Mersch explains that by the
end of July 2003, the banking sector’s
balance sheet stabilised at e 656 billion. He adds, "The number of UCITS
in Luxembourg reached 1,923 at endJuly 2003. Their global net asset value
amounted to 896.2 billion euros, an
increase of more than 6% relative to
end-2002 and only 7.4% below the
peak registered in March 2002.
Overall, the Luxembourg financial
sector has shown remarkable resilience in the context of the adverse
market conditions prevailing for more
than two years."
Concerning the effect of the Euro
on Luxembourg’s economy, Yves
Mersch comments, "The introduction
of the single currency was of great benefit to Luxembourg and its financial centre. Currently, interest rates in the entire
euro area are at very low levels in nominal as well as real terms. The historically
low interest rates are lending support to
economic activity, and the medium
term outlook for price stability continues to be favourable. "
7
Yves Mersch
Gouvernor Central Bank
Strong support
Pointing out that Luxembourg
strongly supports transparency in financial sector practices, Yves Mersch
explains, "Luxembourg fully cooperates
in the international struggle against
money laundering and the financing of
terrorism, and the performance of the
Luxembourg banking sector is more
closely correlated with the business
cycle and the state of financial markets
than with banking secrecy."
LUXEMBOURG
Banking and Finance
Banca Lombarda International S.A.
Boutique bank focuses on
personalized service
Banca Lombarda International, establishing operations
in Luxembourg in 1993, belongs to a Group which operates 750 branches in Europe and is listed on the Milan
Stock Exchange. Ranked number 10 in the Italian market, an impressive position for a medium-sized bank,
Banca Lombarda International S.A.has merged with
Artesia Bank (Luxembourg) SA, which has allowed it to
better serve its clients in Belgium.
According to managing director Massimo Amato,
around 60% of the bank’s services are in private
banking and asset management, with 20% in foreign
exchange and treasury services and 20% in corporate,
lending and fiduciary services. "Our clients are entrepreneurs, 30% in Italy, 30% in Belgium and the others
in a range of countries," Massimo Amato explains.
Personalized services
Exceptional service, highly trained staff and a range
of offerings give Banca Lombarda its competitive edge.
Massimo Amato says, "We are a boutique bank. We offer
personalized services to our clients, and our staff members are extremely talented and motivated to serve our
clients. We are better than traditional; we have been in
the business for 20 years so we know what we are doing.
Our strength is to provide multi-product services under
multi-brand distribution."
Massimo Amato, managing director
Massimo Amato is very positive about the bank’s
future. "I am optimistic. I see the future in multi branding to serve our clients better. We will keep the boutique
focus to benefit our clients as much as possible," he says.
Come and try us!
Discrete service to our clients
Pointing out that Belgian clients are very important to
Banca Lombarda and that the bank has a team of Dutchspeaking staff members to better serve its international
clientele, Amato says that he would like to work with
more clients in Belgium in the future. To potential
clients, he says confidently, "Come and try us; we can beat
our competitors!"
Having earned a Masters of Business Administration
diploma from Columbia University in New York and
having held leading positions in the banking sector in
Europe, Massimo Amato is experienced in serving
international customers. He says, "We offer discrete service to our clients."
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Banca Lombarda International S.A.
Private Banking
Institutional Banking
Corporate Banking
47, bd Prince Henri - BP 11 - L-2010 Luxemburg - Tel.: +352 46 13 41-1 Fax: +352 22 63 18
E-mail: info@bancalombarda.lu
www.bancalombardainternational.lu
10
LUXEMBOURG
Banking and Finance
UBS in Luxemburg
Delivering a
truly different client
experience
UBS is a truly global financial services provider. From its head office
in Switzerland, UBS operates in
over 50 different countries around
the world and is present in all major
international financial centers.
And, just weeks after celebrating its
30th
anniversary,
UBS
(Luxembourg) S.A. is no exception.
UBS continues to recognize the
importance and innovative characteristics of the Luxembourg financial center as well as its increasingly
global role in the firm’s strategy.
And the 310 highly trained UBS
staff members underline the firm's
commitment to the competitiveness
of the country's financial center.
The core activities of UBS
(Luxembourg) S.A. are Wealth
Management
and
Custodian
Banking services. In Wealth
Management, UBS can cover all
neighboring
markets
from
Luxembourg,
including
the
Flemish
and
Dutch-speaking
regions to the North. Based on a
sound and comprehensive understanding of the clients’ needs,
UBS provides an array of customized solutions.
"Our first priority
is our client’s
success."
A human focus on
everything we do
Being able to listen closely to
clients’ needs and taking the time
to pay personal attention to them
are some of the critical abilities
that all our private bankers in
Luxembourg have. "We have a
human focus on everything we
do," says Roger H. Hartmann,
managing director of UBS in
Luxembourg. "UBS delivers a unique client experience everyday. In
fact, it is not that the banking product itself makes that much difference, it is really the people working for the firm," he adds.
11
Roger H. Hartmann
managing director
Best-in-class products
As competition in the financial
services industry heats up in Europe,
UBS is well prepared to meet future
challenges. "We supplement our
already very vast product offering
with best-in-class products from
other financial services providers.
Through a careful screening of these
external products, we are always able
to deliver, from one source, the best
winning solutions", notes Roger H.
Hartmann. "Our first priority is our
client’s success." One way to achieve
that is by not forgetting that clients
prefer it when private bankers buy
for them rather than sell to them.
LUXEMBOURG
Consulting
Ernst & Young Luxembourg
Ideally placed to serve
Belgian investors
Ernst & Young Luxembourg, with
a staff of 550, is ranked the country’s largest tax firm and holds a 20
% market share in asset management as well as a leadership position
in alternative asset management,
which includes private equity and
real estate funds. Ernst & Young
serves all sectors of Luxembourg’s
business community.
Concerning the Belgian market, Kenneth Hay explains that
Ernst & Young Luxembourg works
closely with Ernst & Young
Belgium, and adds, "Many of our
clients are subsidiaries of major
groups, with parent companies in
Belgium, such as ING and KBC.
We also work with clients such as
Dexia and Fortis-BGL, Total Fina
Elf
and
Delhaize
(Match
Courthéoux, Cora and others),
Belgacom and Telindus."
According to CEO Kenneth
Hay, "Our core businesses are
AABS (auditing together with business advisory services and business
process outsourcing) and tax advisory services." The firm includes
four main divisions: Ernst & Young
SA (audit services), Ernst & Young
Tax Advisory Services, Ernst &
Young Business Advisory Services,
and Ernst & Young Resources.
A full range of services
People, quality and
growth
Ernst & Young aims to achieve
market
leadership
through
"people, quality and growth,"
Kenneth Hay explains. He adds,
"Market leadership does not
necessarily mean being the biggest; it means being recognised as
the best, and a leader in our chosen areas of activity."
Kenneth Hay is very positive
about Luxembourg as a business
base. "We can provide a full range of
services to the potential entrepreneur looking to set up in
Luxembourg, including business
plans,
presentation
to
the
Luxembourg authorities, even assistance with their real estate projects
and of course tax planning," he
points out.
Commitment to integrity
In 2000, Ernst & Young sold its
large project consulting business,
believing this to be incompatible
with the auditing profession; this
groundbreaking decision reflects the
company’s commitment to integrity.
It is also known for its specialized services in media, telecommunications,
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Kenneth Hay
CEO
banking, asset management and
medium-sized businesses.
Ideally positioned
to serve
Ernst & Young Luxembourg is
ideally
positioned
to
serve
Belgian investors and entrepreneurs. As Kenneth Hay explains,
"We
are
the
gateway
to
Luxembourg. We have strong
relations with Ernst & Young in
Belgium, and we are here to help
new entrepreneurs or multinationals settling their business or
branch here."
LUXEMBOURG
Construction Industry
Giorgetti Carlo
Construction firm employs
innovative approach
Giorgetti Carlo (GC), founded in 1985
by Carlo Giorgetti and his wife, has
grown to become one of Luxembourg’s
leading construction firms. The company specializes in the construction of
office buildings, banks, factories, shopping centers, and major projects for the
government, as well as residential properties and the restoration of listed historic buildings.
The company has established
an outstanding reputation for its
precision and efficiency thanks to
the use of the latest techniques and
materials. GC’s major projects
include administrative buildings
and a hospital in Kirchberg, the
Concorde shopping center in
Bertrange and the Topaze center
in Mersch.
Carlo
Giorgetti,
founder,
explains that when he founded the
company he concentrated on the
construction of office buildings and
banks, but then determined on the
innovative approach of using both
prefabricated structures and tradiCarlo Giorgetti
Founder
tional construction to broaden his
offerings and increase efficiency.
The company’s competitive edge
is that it completes essential elements
of a construction project in its own
factory or foreign factories (such as
assembling walls, floors, beams and
staircases in cement), then installs
and finishes these elements on the
actual construction site. This approach reduces the time spent on the
site itself and ensures faster service as
well as the highest possible quality.
Time is money
Explaining his company’s success,
Carlo Giorgetti points out that he
always employs the highest quality
materials, and is committed to rapid
completion of every project. "Time is
money. We can make a very competi13
tive offer since we can guarantee lower
costs and faster completion. We are a
dynamic and fast company," he says.
The company employs a computer-aided design system (CAD) to create all designs and plans for prefabricated elements, and can therefore
take charge of a project from inception to completion. "This method
also allows for instant communication between designers and builders," Carlo Giorgetti adds.
GC serves a number of foreign
companies in Luxembourg and in
Belgium. Urging German investors
to target Luxembourg, Carlo
Giorgetti says, "We have the knowhow and we can help you. Come to
Luxembourg." He adds, "I would like
people to get to know us better. They
can trust us as we know the
Luxembourg economy inside out!"
Construction Company
7a, rue Robert
Stümper
L-2557 Luxembourg
Tel.: +352 40 16 16 1
Fax: +352 40 16 33
info@giorgetticarlo.lu
www.giorgetticarlo.lu
LUXEMBOURG
Construction Industry
A+P Kieffer Omnitec, headquartered
in Luxembourg, has grown from a
small, family-owned plumbing company founded in 1924 to become a
leader in providing state-of-the-art
technical and energetic equipment,
maintenance and related services.
A+P Kieffer Omnitec
Market leader in
supplying state-of-the-art
technical services
With ¤33 million in annual turn over, A+P Kieffer Omnitec is very
proactive in investing in the company’s future and maintains a strong
focus on adopting the latest technologies. Known for its reliability and
quality, A+P Kieffer Omnitec
applies Assurance Quality standards
that uphold ISO 9001 guidelines.
Pierre Emile Kieffer and Mil
Kieffer, both managing directors at
A+P Kieffer, explain that A+P Kieffer
Omnitec strong of 235 employees, is
ranked number one in the
Luxembourg market in heating and
ventilation equipment, number four
in technical equipment, and number
16 in construction services. The company is known for its dedication to personalized services. As Pierre Emile
Kieffer says, "One of our strengths is
that we listen to our clients. We establish and maintain long-term relationships with them."
A+P Kieffer Omnitec has completed projects for hospitals, schools,
offices, banks and industrial complexes, and its specialized teams provide a full range of services designed
to help companies optimize their
energy use and operate in an environmentally-friendly manner.
A unique way of doing
business
Placing a high priority on its
human resources, A+P Kieffer
Omnitec employs highly qualified
Mil Kieffer & Pierre Emile Kieffer
managing directors
professionals in a number of fields.
"Our personnel have liberty, responsibility, and a major involvement in
the profits," Mil Kieffer says. "We
have a unique way of doing business.
It’s a people business."
The company has adopted a streamlined management style to ensure top
efficiency in operations and services.
"We have a lean management," Pierre
Emile Kieffer points out. "A+P Kieffer
Omnitec is one of Luxembourg’s few
remaining family-owned companies."
Among A+P Kieffer Omnitec’s
industrial clients are international
groups like Husky and Arcelor, for
which the company has completed a
number of major projects. The company also worked with Belgian enter15
prise Herpain Promotor, and has
established productive associations
with more than 200 collaborators for
the most demanding projects.
We believe in Luxembourg!
A+P Kieffer Omnitec is always seeking new partnerships with contractors
and other professionals, and welcomes
the opportunity to extend its activities
into new markets. The company is currently constructing their new headquarters, a new office building (4,000 sq
meter) and a new production plant
(1,600 sq meter) in the capital's major
business zone "Cloche d’Or". "We
remain committed to the Luxembourg
market," Pierre Emile Kieffer says. "We
believe in Luxembourg!"
a+p kieffer omnitec
technical and energetic equipment
technical and energetic management
59, avenue Pasteur, L-2311 Luxembourg
Tel.: +352 47 48 48-1
Fax: +352 22 69 98
E-mail: apkieffer@apkieffer-omnitec.lu
www.apkieffer-omnitec.lu
LUXEMBOURG
Construction Industry
It’s not easy being number one in
any industry. It takes a deep understanding of market conditions, a
commitment to quality, and a focus
on the demands and needs of the
customer. In the flooring industry,
the number one company is Tarkett.
With more than 100 years of experience in the production of floorings,
the company is now present in more
than 50 countries, and is operating
production centers in 10 countries.
With 7,300 employees and revenues
around ¤1.5 billion, this major
player in the global market is also a
major player in Luxembourg.
As president residential consumer
division for Europe and Asia John C.
Rietveldt describes it, “We are important to Luxembourg. As the most
profitable flooring company in the
world, we are Luxembourg’s 12th
largest employer. The nearby Belgian
market is very important to us, where
we have a 40% share, as is the whole
of Europe." To attain the market
position they have today, Tarkett’s
strategy is two-fold. “One the one
hand, we have gone through a series
of acquisitions to better position ourselves to cover the entire market,"
says John C. Rietveldt. “Importantly,
we have continued to concentrate on
the development of products to meet
customer demand."
Tarkett Sommer Luxembourg S.A.
Concentrating
on the demands of
consumers
hospital flooring, which has special
requirements."
“We are going to have
a broader variety of
products and
especially concentrate
on demand."
John C. Rietveldt
president residential consumer division
Europe and Asia
With a yearly production of over
300 million square meters of floor
and wall coverings, the company currently markets four types of floors –
cushion vinyl, parquet, laminated
and textile floorings. “Further, we
have half the world market share for
artificial grass," notes John C.
Rietveldt. “We specialize in sports
arena flooring, as well as supplying
Coverage of the entire
global market
Yet, Tarkett is not content with
simply maintaining their market
share. Their aim is comprehensive
coverage of the entire global market,
with more intensive vertical penetration in their core markets of Europe
and the US. “We are going to have a
broader variety of products and especially concentrate on demand," says
John C. Rietveldt. “We see the importance in relationships with trade partners to create value for consumers."
Investors should note the company is also focused on profit revenues, as John C. Rietveldt makes
clear. “We don’t only save costs by
reducing people, we also make the
machines more efficient. Our staff is
highly valued and important to us,"
he continues. “All staff is encouraged
to take initiative, and new ideas are
given serious consideration."
LUXEMBOURG
Steel Industry
Trefilarbed Bettembourg S.A.
Trefilarbed ranked number
two globally
Arcelor Group Formed through a
merger between Aceralia, Arbed and
Usinor in 2001, Arcelor is a leader
in the global steel industry. It is the
world’s largest producer of flat carbon steel and long carbon steel, a
leader in stainless steel production,
and is a major presence in distribution, transformation and trading.
Two of Arcelor’s successful business
units
are
Galvalange
and
Trefilarbed in Luxembourg.
The highest quality
Trefilarbed Bettembourg S.A.,
established in Bettembourg in
1970, has consolidated its position
as one of the leading producers of
steel cord, hose wire and cutting
wire world-wide. The Trefilarbed
Group also produces high-carbon
wire products as spring wire and PC
wire, as well as low-carbon wire products, including fibers for concrete
reinforcing, nails, fences, vineyard
wire and other CRAPAL 4LIFE®
(Zn + Al alloy coating) wire applications. All Trefilarbed’s products
undergo rigorous testing to ensure
the highest quality.
Number two in the world
The company has grown rapidly
over the past few years and has
extended its operations internatio-
steady growth, Trefilarbed has clearly
achieved these ambitions.
Praising Luxembourg
Emile Walch
general manager
nally. It is ranked number two in the
world in its sector and counts among
its clients most of the world’s top
automobile tire manufacturers.
Praising Luxembourg as a business
base, Emile Walch cites the country’s
central location, moderate western
European labour costs, supportive
government and business-friendly regulations. “In Luxembourg it is easy to talk
to the government and as we are small
we can be flexible,” he adds.
A higher position in
the market
Emile Walch has been with the
company since 1988 and was formerly
head of R&D activities before becoming general manager two years ago.
He looks forward to a very profitable
future for Trefilarbed. He explains, “I
hope that in the future we will be in a
higher position in the market, having
higher market share worldwide. We
want to improve our customer service
even more and also our results.”
According to Emile Walch,
Trefilarbed
general
manager,
Bettembourg now operates four
plants in South Korea and one in
China in a joint venture and has
been present in the United States
since 1990 and in Austria and
Hungary since last year. The company is 100 per cent owned by the
international Arcelor group and
employs in Luxembourg some 356
people representing 12 different
nationalities.
New high-value-added
products
The company’s key goals, Emile
Walch explains, are to provide a positive environment for collaboration,
excellent working conditions, continually strengthened quality, high
profits and strong customer satisfaction. Given its past performance and
Another key goal for the company is to develop new high-valueadded products. As Emile Walch
points out, “Our investment into
research and development should
give us the competitive advantage
over our competitors.”
19
LUXEMBOURG
Steel Industry
Galvalange
World’s third-largest
producer of Aluzinc
Galvalange, founded in 1981, is the
world’s third-largest producer of
Aluzinc, steel sheets coated with aluminium (55%), zinc (43.4%) and
silicon (1.6%) that are used in a
large number of applications throughout the world. Galvalange, which
employs a staff of 200, has a production capacity of 600,000 tons of
Aluzinc per year that it provides to the
construction industry, to the automotive sector, to the producers of air-conditioning equipment, solar panels,
wind turbines and to steel service centers that use Aluzinc for a lot of other
applications.
As managing director Romain
Keiser explains, "The Aluzinc, with a
consumption of 5 million tonnes per
year world wide, combines the advantages of zinc and aluminium with the
strength of steel.
Guaranteed strength and
longevity
Aluzinc is widely used because of
its guaranteed strength and longevity. "We give a warranty of 20 years
against corrosion. The unique mixture of the product makes it possible to have a very effective as well as
a long-term protection against corrosion," Romain Keiser says,
adding, "Environmental friendliness is another major benefit of the
product."
Romain Keiser
managing director
ment for its employees. "We have
devoted and highly skilled people
working for us. This is our strength
now and in the future," Romain
Keiser points out.
Furthermore the combination of
zinc and aluminium give to the product its unique silvery shine."
Romain Keiser adds. "Many architects have discovered our product
and use it because of the quality and
its unique aspect," he points out.
We deliver high-quality
products
Galvalange’s competitive edge is
to produce a product with an excellent price/quality ratio the market
is appreciating more and more. As
for the future, Galvalange plans to
continue to focus on customer service and to further reduce delivery
times for its products. In addition,
the company is committed to maintaining a good working environ-
The company will remain in
Luxembourg, which Romain Keiser
praises as a business base thanks to its
strategic location, highly skilled workers and supportive government.
"Luxembourg is a great place for
business," he says. As for Galvalange,
Keiser predicts a bright future. "We
deliver high-quality products with
good service," he concludes.
20
Aluzinc
20 YEAR WARRANTY ON CONSTRUCTION
Zone Industrielle Wolser, B.P. 92
L-3401 DUDELANGE
Tél +352 51 86 86 1
Mail:galvalange@galvalange .lu
LUXEMBOURG
Energy
Soteg
Soteg foresees bright
future
Soteg, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, has
developed a strong reputation for its high-quality gas
transport and supply as well as for its corporate consulting. The company is owned by Arcelor (20%),
Luxembourg State (21% ), SNCI (10%), Cegedel
(19%), Ruhrgas (20%) and Saar Femgas (10%).
Defining his company’s main activities, CEO Jean
Lucius says, "We sell gas to four public distribution
companies, and many industrial clients and help them
optimize their use of energy. In order to transport gas
efficiently, we invest a lot in infrastructure and maintain it the best possible way."
Reliable partners
New European Union regulations have increased
competition for Soteg in the Luxembourg market but
have also opened up new opportunities for the company
to operate beyond Luxembourg. As Jean Lucius points
out, "The new regulations are a great challenge and we
have taken action to be better positioned in the market.
We have accomplished this by having reliable partners
with international reach and a strong track record."
Jean Lucius
CEO
use. "Protecting the environment is part of EU regulations and we take this very seriously," Jean Lucius says.
Another new focus for the company is promoting fuel
cells.
"We are a small company and
therefore flexible."
Improve our position in the market
Soteg makes an outstanding partner for other companies, since it can offer in-depth knowledge of both
the Luxembourg market and of markets in neighbouring countries. Jean Lucius cites the company’s size as
an additional advantage. "We are a small company and
therefore flexible," he says.
Soteg is anticipating further strong growth and plans
to move into new facilities within two years. Jean Lucius
points out, "We are very competitive, our prices are
among the lowest in Europe and yet we are profitable.
The liberalisation of the European energy market plays
an important part in our future and we are positive that
this will seize the opportunity to improve our position in
the market."
As for the future, Soteg aims to continue to advise
clients concerning environmentally friendly energy
22
LUXEMBOURG
Heating Products
Comptoir des Fers et Métaux S.A.
Market leader in
Luxembourg seeking
international partners
Comptoir des Fers et Métaux S.A.
(CFM), founded in Luxembourg in
1922 and acquired by UK based
Wolseley Plc in 1999, achieved ¤ 50
million in turnover last year and
has achieved a strong reputation in
providing specialised heating products and related pipes and plumbing connections for bathroom
installations. It serves the public
and private sectors, and is ranked
market leader in Luxembourg.
Yves Cheret
managing director
Yves Cheret, managing director,
explains, "We do not serve the end
user but rather the middle man installing bathrooms for end users. Most of
our clients are from Luxembourg,
with around 3 per cent of our products exported to Belgium."
We offer one-stopshopping for our clients
Yves Cheret adds that service and a
broad range of offerings have given
CFM its competitive edge in
Luxembourg. He says, "We offer onestop-shopping for our clients, and our
showroom here in Luxembourg is the
biggest. Our name is well known and
people can trust it." He adds that CFM
has its own logistics centre and distribution network to offer the most efficient service. "We are improving our
24
logistics constantly as well as seeking
new ways to reach our clients even better," he points out.
CFM is seeking partners to help it
expand its services for its customers.
The company can offer a number of
attractive advantages for its partners,
including access to its well-developed
infrastructure and the benefit of an
association with its well-known brand
name.
Good reputation
As for the future, Yves Cheret is
very confident CFM will continue to
grow. "We are going to earn an even
greater market share. Our name will
enjoy the same trust as it does now
and we want to keep our good reputation," he concludes.
LUXEMBOURG
Plastics Industry
Husky Injection Holding Systems S.A.
Keeping its customers
in the lead
company, with manufacturing facilities in the US, Canada and
Luxembourg.
Husky is one of the world’s leading
suppliers of injection molding equipment and services for the plastics
industry. Its systems manufacture a
range of products that consumers
around the world use every day,
from bottles and caps to syringes,
containers, automotive components
and housings for electronic equipment.
David Cook explains that the firm
regards employees as its best asset.
Every staff member is treated the
same way, with everyone sitting in an
open-plan office, including the CEO
himself. "We invest in our employees
here, and that investment shows,"
says David Cook. "Morale within the
company is high, and people stay
with us for a long time." Employees
with talent can flourish, and Cook
stresses that Husky is in Luxembourg
for the long term.
David Cook
CEO
Founded 50 years ago with a passion
for innovation, Husky began by building molds, that soon made the machines of the time obsolete. They began to
build their own manufacturing systems,
eventually adding robots. To give the
edge to customers, the company began
integrating complete molding cells and
even designed total factories. In the ’70s
they developed high speed thin-wall systems followed by high volume PET preform systems, which soon found applications on the world market. "This helped us build a truly global service and
support network," describes Husky
Luxembourg CEO David Cook, "to
insure our customers stayed out in
front."
With more than 40 service and
sales offices, Husky is a truly global
26
People with spirit
"We are looking for people with spirit, who go the extra mile because they
are personally driven to do so," according to David Cook. "We need people
who enjoy a fast paced, challenging
environment where change is constant
and excellence is respected. For those
who share this spirit, we offer the best in
resources, an demanding work environment, and an opportunity for highly
competitive rewards."
Husky’s commitment to the environment and its involvement with
local community projects mark it as a
company that cares. "Plastics is often
seen as unfriendly to the environment," David Cook acknowledges.
"Husky pays a great deal of attention
to protecting the environment."
KEEPING
OUR CUSTOMERS
IN THE LEAD
H u s k y E u ro p e
Zone Industrielle Riedgen
Te c h n i c a l C e n t e r, B . P. 9 3
L-3401 Dudelange, Luxembourg
Te l . : + 3 5 2 5 2 1 1 5 1
Fax: +352 52 115 4458
w w w. h u s k y. c a
LUXEMBOURG
Logistics
Arthur Welter Transports s.àr.l
Arthur Welter Transports provides
GPS-supported logistics services
One of Luxembourg’s top logistics
companies began 41 years ago with
just one truck. Today, Arthur Welter
Transports, elected "European
Transport Company of the Year" in
2000, has 160 vehicles to cover the
international traffic and 30 vehicles
for the national distribution in
Luxembourg , a staff of 300, 200
drivers and a 6,000 sq m warehouse. Still owned and managed
100% by the Welter family, the
Luxembourg-based company has
offices in Belgium, the Netherlands,
France and Germany and excels at
providing reliable, efficient and
friendly service to clients throughout
Europe.
Viviane Welter
managing director
The company’s competitive edge
includes its use of the Global
Positioning System (GPS) to track shipments wherever they might be. Viviane
Welter explains, "This system has also
helped us with our multinational workforce; we are able to communicate to
our drivers by writing the address for
the load/offload location. In the past, it
was sometimes difficult for a German
driver, for example, to communicate
him an address in France via mobile."
One of the managing directors,
Viviane Welter, explains that the
company offers national and international distribution services as
well as general cargo services, airfreight roadfeeder services and
customs clearance support, which
involves clearing goods through
customs and then transporting the
shipment to its destination.
An example of good
driving
Arthur Welter Transports has a
prestigious client list that includes
Cargolux, Air France, China
Airlines, DHL-Danzas, and ABX .
"Obviously the Belgian market is
important to us; we deliver on
daily basis to Belgium," Viviane
Welter adds.
Viviane Welter adds that all
drivers for Arthur Welter Transports
are highly trained and respect speed
limits at all times, one reason the
company enjoys an excellent safety
record. "We want to be seen as an
example of good driving. We have
had very good statistics in the past in
28
terms of road accidents, and we want
to keep it that way," she says.
A friendly, productive
atmosphere
Another of the company’s strong
points is its lean management structure. "Openness is seen as one of the
major tools to the continuous development of the company," Viviane
Welter points out. She encourages a
friendly, productive atmosphere in
the company and takes pride in the
company carting team.
A reliable partner
This dynamic transport firm foresees continued expansion and has
positioned itself as a reliable partner
for clients in Belgium who seek
world-class logistics services.
ARTHUR WELTER LUXEMBOURG
Arthur Welter Luxembourg
63, Z.A. Am Bann • L-3372 Leudelange • B.P. 1923 • L-1019 Luxembourg
Tel.: +352 371717 • Fax: +352 371818 • E-mail: info@awelter.lu • www.awelter.lu
LUXEMBOURG
Logistics
Cobelfret S.A.
Cobelfret excels at
specialized logistics services
Family-owned Cobelfret, founded in
the 1930s, offers one-stop-shop logistics services for an international
clientele. The Cobelfret Group operates 16 roll-on/roll-off ships on North
Sea routes as well as its own car-carrying trucks and railway wagons
and is also very active in the dry
bulk sector (iron ore, coal, bauxite,
phosphates) world-wide, working
from its own dedicated terminals in
the North Sea ports and with a wide
range of partners to guarantee
exceptional services.
According to director F.A.
Bracke, the company began as a
transporter of raw materials even
before WW II and has expanded
to offer a range of services to
clients in diverse sectors. He
explains, "Today we serve steel
mills, the automobile industry,
power generators, the paper industry, and the fertiliser and aluminium products industries."
Fast decision-making
Fast decision-making is one of the
company’s strong points. F.A. Bracke
points out, "Decision-making within
the company is easy; when decisions
are needed, the answer is only one
phone call away. Our corporate structure is flat and relations in the organi-
sation are good. We value everyone in
the organisation."
Long-term relationships
Explaining how Cobelfret has
maintained its competitive edge, F.A.
Bracke cites the company’s focus on
establishing long-term relationships
with its clients. "Our clients know our
services and value them. We are the
partner for them and they can trust us
365 days per year," he says.
The company’s specialized offerings include automobile-processing
centers in Zeebrugge and Vlissingen
(PDI’s: pre-delivery inspection) that
handles inspection and installation of
accessories as well as the preparation
of new automobiles for specific markets. "We offer car manufacturers the
services they need," F.A. Bracke says.
30
A strong future
F.A. Bracke, who serves as president of the Association des Intérets
Maritimes Luxembourgeois, praises Luxembourg as a business base,
given its stable and supportive economic and political environment
and its small size which allows it to
be proactive. He adds that the
Association des Intérets Maritimes
Luxembourgeois was created to
work with the government to
assure a competitive environment
for shipping companies in Europe.
F.A. Bracke predicts a strong
future for his company and urges
international clients to turn to
Cobelfret for their specialised
logistics needs.
LUXEMBOURG
Business and Leisure
Hilton Luxembourg
Quality in an outstanding
location
hotel. “With 14 meeting and function rooms, we make the perfect
choice for conventions."
Whether you’re traveling to
Luxembourg for business or pleasure, get the feeling of what the city
is all about by staying at the Hilton
Luxembourg. Hilton Luxembourg’s
modern facility is the city’s biggest
luxury hotel, with 337 rooms, of
which 70 are suites and executive
rooms. Located on a hillside overlooking the city, with views of the
mountains and valley, Hilton
Luxembourg can add that special
touch to any business or leisure trip.
Guests going to and from the airport or to the downtown area are serviced by a regularly scheduled shuttle
bus, with both locations just a short
drive away .
“More people
need to know
about Luxembourg
and what we have
Xavier Damster
general manager
Fully equipped
In line with Luxembourg’s growing importance as a European business center, Hilton Luxembourg is
fully equipped to meet the requirements of both individual and group
business guests.
The perfect choice for
conventions
“Hilton Luxembourg can supply
everything business clients need –
laptops, fax, big rooms and other
business services," says Xavier
Damster, general manager at the
32
to offer,"
The excellent base for
exploring the Ardennes
For the leisure traveller, it is also
the excellent base for exploring the
Ardennes region and the old, walled
city, where visitors can enjoy the
pretty town squares, the pedestrian
shopping districts elegantly lined
with beautiful architecture, and the
famous Corinche promenade. „More
people need to know about
Luxembourg and what we have to
offer," believes Xavier Damster.
„Even Belgians know too little about
the country." Xavier Damster should
know, as he originally came from
Belgium.
Business room
"The hotel features two restaurants – Les Continents, a creative
gem with a fresh, French cuisine; and
Le Café Stiffchen, with a very international kitchen. „And we offer as a unique place in Luxembourg the Hilton
Breakfast," says Xavier Damster, „as
everyone’s idea of the perfect breakfast is different." Special cuisine
nights include an open kitchen
Italian buffet on Tuesdays and
Louisiana evenings on Fridays. In the
summertime, there’s no need to
worry about the heat, as the hotel is
fully air conditioned.
Guests look forward to a
return stay
Every guest can also take full
advantage of Hilton Luxembourg’s
other facilities and services. There
is a large, beautiful pool for the
swimmers, while the terrace can
provide relaxation, scenic views,
and possibly a suntan. Fitness facilities at the Hilton include a sauna,
solarium, health club and gym,
with a fine golf course and tennis
courts a short drive away. 24-hour
room service, babysitting service,
non-smoking rooms and even a
house phytotherapist are some of
the amenities that make the Hilton
a memorable experience – one
where guests look forward to a
return stay.
"One of the best things about the
Hilton Luxembourg is that they have
a dedicated staff which fully compliments everything else the hotel has
to offer.
Another feature of the hotel is
the Hilton HHonors reward programme. Guests can earn both
hotel points and airline miles for
the very same stay. „It is what we call
Double Dipping and is available for
stays at more than 2,400 hotels in
more than 60 countries worldwide"
says Xavier Damster. „People like
this concept and tend to come back
often. „Even if you‘re not a guest,
stop by one of the restaurants," assures Xavier Damster. „And the next
time you visit Luxemburg, you’ll be
staying with us."
33
LUXEMBOURG
Business and Leisure
Sheraton Aerogolf Hotel
Where every guest feels
welcome
the perfect place for
conducting business,
pleasure and sightseeing
The Sheraton Aerogolf Hotel was the
first
international
hotel
in
Luxembourg, and since 1978, has
continued to serve a wide variety of
guests from its ideal location adjacent to Luxembourg’s International
Airport. In keeping with its name,
the hotel also rests across the street
from one of Europe’s finest 18-hole
golf courses. With the city center just
a short ten minutes away, location
is just one of the reasons to make the
Sheraton Aerogolf your home away
from
home
while
visiting
Luxembourg.
Sissi Nobel
managing director
As a member of the Starwood
Hotels and Resorts group, one of the
world’s largest hotel and leisure companies, the Sheraton Aerogolf fully
understands the needs of international business and leisure travellers.
Since Luxembourg is an important
financial center in the EU, and since
the hotel is located in a business district near the airport, the majority of
clients are foreign businesspersons.
According to managing director Sissi
Nobel, “20% of our clientele are leisure tourists, with the personnel and
crews from the airport making up
another 20%. But the majority of our
clients are business people."
34
The Sheraton Aerogolf has 148
rooms, standard and superior rooms,
including one Executive Suite. Six
meeting rooms can accommodate
conferences and conventions for up
to 250 people. The Sheraton has
become a popular place to hold weddings, as well, with an average of 40
to 50 weddings per year. Fine and
casual dining, as well as quality entertainment can be found in the
Sheraton’s two restaurants and the
Crossroad Piano bar. The piano
player is a long time favorite who has
become well known to the hotel’s
repeat guests. With the nearby business district and city center close by,
the Sheraton Aerogolf is the perfect
place for conducting business, pleasure and sightseeing.
As Luxembourg’s popularity as a
business destination increases, the
need for quality rooms to meet the
needs of today’s business traveller is
crucial. Luxembourg‘s location in
the center of Western Europe’s business region, with Belgium, Germany,
France, the Netherlands and the UK
only a short distance away, the competition for the business traveller
market is strong.
To that end, the hotel has
recently finished a major renovation
project involving the complete remo-
LUXEMBOURG
Business and Leisure
deling and modernizing of all its
guest rooms. “The idea is to provide
more services and comfort within the
confines of the room," says Sissi
Nobel. “Each guest room has been
tastefully redesigned using modern
fabrics, materials and color coordination. Light, natural colors were chosen to give a more spacious feel, as
well as a sense of tranquility."
Don’t worry about
the adaptors
This attention to color extends to
the three wings on the different
floors of the hotel. “We are one of
the very few hotel pro-perties to embrace the concept of giving guests a
choice of colors," Sissi Nobel notes.
“Each wing has a different color –
lavender, light red and turquoise
– and the guests can choose their
preferred color upon availability."
Everything from the new furniture to
the beds to the modern telecommunications hook-ups available in each
room demonstrates the commitment
the Sheraton Aerogolf has to ser-ving
its guests. “In addition to fax and
modem lines, we have also introduced fixed adaptor plugs for appliances, since we have an international
clientele," Sissi Nobel points out. “So,
on your next trip to Luxembourg,
don’t worry about the adaptors."
For the Starwood group in general,
and for the Sheraton Aerogolf in parti-
cular, the customer’s needs always
come first. So, when the renovation
project was undertaken, client input
was essential. As Sissi Nobel confirms,
“All these renovations had been carefully planned with the voice of the customer in mind. The feedback of our
regular guests on what is important to
them, as well as those who stayed in
the test room, were instrumental in
helping us decide how to make the
‘Sheraton experience’ even better."
“The friendliness and
initiative of the staff
play an important role
within the company."
The policy of catering to the client
extends beyond the traditional at the
Sheraton Aerogolf. Guests, as well as
workers at the business center, can
enjoy the PICKITUP-service available
from the hotel’s kitchen. “The kitchen
prepares all kinds of salads, sandwiches and desserts for take out," says
Sissi Nobel. “Dry cleaning service is
also available for employees of nearby
35
businesses, as well as same day laundry
service, if dropped off by 9 AM."
And for the businessperson or leisure seeker who doesn’t have the time
or inclination to shop for gifts or other
items, the Sheraton offers services to
meet that need. We offer ‚boxes‘, like
the Celebration Box, which contains
cake, candles, a bottle of champagne,
glasses and even confetti," remarks
Sissi Nobel. “We also have gift selections if you’re on the way to an important event, and we can even sell you
groceries, so you don’t have to come
back to an empty fridge."
Perhaps, what makes the Sheraton
Aerogolf stand out even more is the
quality of its staff. Since customer care is
at the centre of every staff member’s
duties, each member of the staff is treated with equality and respect, and is
valued as a member of the team. This is
reflected in the caring attention given
by the staff to guests. “The friendliness
and initiative of the staff play an important role within the company," notes
Sissi Nobel. “Having worked here for
the past six years, I can assure first time
guests to the hotel that our staff is
second to none."
LUXEMBOURG
Business and Leisure
Studio Hotel Piemont
Studio hotel offers
warm welcome in heart
of business district
The Studio Hotel Piemont, opened in
1991, offers 22 studios and eight
guest rooms for a discerning international clientele seeking a home away
from home in Luxembourg. Located
in the heart of Luxembourg’s business
district and within easy reach of the
city centre, the hotel offers a range of
special services and has become very
popular among executive travelers,
whether on a long-term or short visit
to Luxembourg.
Always available
According to general manager
Philippe Bersweiler, who has been
the hotel’s owner for the past two
years, the Studio Hotel Piemont’s
amenities include a well-guarded
parking lot, an excellent breakfast
service, and very competent staff
who are always available to provide
guests with assistance, including
sending faxes and other business
related tasks. "Maintenance is very
good; the rooms are always well
cleaned. Our guests also have the
possibility to connect to the
Internet in every room. We also provide laundry service," he adds.
Feel at home
Pointing out the hotel’s competitive edge, Philippe Bersweiler
explains that the hotel’s small size
and focus on services make it stand
out from other hotel properties in
Luxembourg. The fact that it has an
owner-manager is another guarantee
that the hotel is strongly committed
to making its guests feel at home and
will react quickly to satisfy guests’
needs.
Personalized services
As Philippe Bersweiler points out,
"We are a small hotel so we can adjust
to the demands of our clients easily.
36
We offer personalized services
and we know
our clients by
their names. We
welcome each
client warmly."
Not surprisingly, the Studio
Hotel Piemont
Philippe Bersweiler
has
a very high
general manager
percentage of
repeat visitors drawn to the hotel’s
friendly welcome and convenient
facilities, which include four-star
hotel rooms.
"We want you to feel
welcomed into our
hotel every time. Some
of our clients perceive
us as their family.”
Addressing potential clients planning a trip to Luxembourg for business or pleasure, Philippe Bersweiler
concludes, "We want you to feel welcomed into our hotel every time.
Some of our clients perceive us as
their family. We are here to make
your stay in Luxembourg the best
possible." He urges travelers to make
the Studio Hotel Piemont their base
in Luxembourg.
SWITZERLAND
Content
Content
Economy
●
Location: Switzerland
38
●
Bilateral Economic
Relations Division
40
Insurance
●
Helvetia
41
Trade and Industry
●
Kugler Bimetal SA
42
●
Oettinger Davidoff Group 44
●
ABB Sécheron SA
46
●
Model Holding AG
48
●
Caran d’Ache SA
50
Pharmaceutical Industry
●
Knoll AG
52
Information Technology
●
Hewlett Packard (HP)
54
●
Microsolft
56
●
Philips
58
Tourism
●
Avis
60
●
Hotel zum Storchen
62
●
Hilton Basel
64
●
Arabella Sheraton
Neues Schloss
66
Working to
achieve all possible
synergies
As the largest umbrella organisation
covering the Swiss economy, the Swiss
Business Federation, known as economiesuisse, has been representing the
interests of over 30,000 businesses in
the national and international marketplace.
Created through the merger
between the Swiss Federation of
Commerce and Industry and The
Society for the Promotion of the Swiss
Economy in 2000, the organisation has
been actively involved on all levels relating to the Swiss economy and its secure
place in the future. As economiesuisse
CEO Rudolf Ramsauer puts it, "Our
mission is to create an optimal economic environment for Swiss business. To
achieve this, it is crucial to preserve
entrepreneurial freedom for all businesses and to further improve Swiss global competitiveness."
With 100 trade and industry associations, 20 cantonal chambers of commerce, along with several individual
companies, the work of economiesuisse centers around crucial political
and economic issues. "We focus on
economic and monetary policy, international economic relations, competition policy and legal issues," notes
Rudolf Ramsauer. "We are also concerned with education and research, as
well as energy and environmental
policy." They maintain close relations
with the Swiss government and are
intensively involved in all stages of the
legislative process on matters concer37
Rudolf Ramsauer
CEO
ning the well-being of its members
and the Swiss economy. "Whether its
tax policy, European integration, ecommerce or infrastructure liberalisation," he adds, "we lobby hard on
behalf of our members, and work closely with organisations of similar interest to achieve all possible synergies."
Growing interaction
Internationally, especially concerning the EU, Switzerland’s largest
trading partner, economiesuisse is
determined to keep Switzerland
strong, prosperous and involved.
"Growing international interaction
between countries has increased the
challenges facing economic decision
makers on both the national and
international level," says Rudolf
Ramsauer. "We are here to help meet
those demands, to keep Switzerland
as one of the most competitive countries in the world."
SWITZERLAND
Economy
Location: Switzerland
One of the world’s best
locations for your SME
When business owners and foreign
companies think of locating in
Switzerland, its high profile, high
income image may cause some to
hesitate. In reality, Switzerland is
an ideal location for your business,
especially in the SME category.
A recent OECD study ranked
the country first among industrialised nations in acquiring the new
skills and technology necessary for
leading edge industries of the
future. In such diverse fields ranging from biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, IT, nanotechnology and environmental technologies to finance and insurance,
Switzerland has the right business
environment and skilled workforce to help your company
achieve innovation and success.
Location:
Switzerland is the state-funded
agency that brings the message of
the country’s proactive business
environment to foreign companies throughout the world. In
addition, they provide advice and
facilitate the setting up of businesses in Switzerland, as well as acting
as coordinator among the various
cantons seeking companies. "We
go to other countries and do seminars on a regular basis, as well as
participate in fairs,” notes director
Franziska Holzgang. Belgian companies are invited to a business
The Swiss labor market tends to
focus on capital-intensive production
methods that demand a lean but
highly
qualified
workforce.
Employees in Switzerland are dedicated, and often put in more hours per
week than in neighboring countries,
leading to more productive, costeffective results. The biotechnology
sector has expanded by 30% over the
past 8 years, with 75 companies now
in the Basel area, and 65 in Zurich.
Franziska Holzgang
director European Program
seminar in Brussels this coming
September." Contrary to what some
may believe, setting up a business in
Switzerland is a relatively simple process. "It’s comparably easy and fast to
set up your business here," she continues. "Administrative work can be
done quickly, plus the small number
of regulations and low tax burden
actually facilitate locating in the
country." She points out there are
many business-linked benefits in
Switzerland, including an excellent
quality of life. "We have exceptional
infrastructure, a business/investor
friendly government and a first class
workforce."
38
Future success
"Environmental technologies are
also of growing importance to the
Swiss
economy,"
acknowledges
Franziska Holzgang. "We are leaders in
showing the possibilities of combining
economic growth with ecological thinking." With SMEs as the backbone of
the economy, the country has much in
common with Belgium. "Both countries take a regional approach to business and concentrate on quality," she
says. "There is an entrepreneurial tradition, and both societies are multilingual." If you are looking to establish or
expand operations in leading technologies, manufacturing or financial services, you owe it to your future success
to give Switzerland a serious look.
Successful
Business Investing
in Switzerland
Location:Switzerland, an initiative of
the Swiss Ministry of Economy,
will give you all information about
how to do business in Switzerland,
e.g. fiscal structures, labor law and costs,
the social and political environment
you can expect to find, etc.
Take your chance
Details: www.locationswitzerland.ch
Contact: info@locationswitzerland.ch
39
SWITZERLAND
Economy
Bilateral Economic Relations Division
A long, stable tradition
of trade
Switzerland has a long history of
trade and economic relations with
other countries, and this tradition is
more active today than ever before.
Leading the challenge to maintain
and increase Switzerland’s participation in international trade is the
Bilateral
Economic
Relations
Division.
Headed by trade ambassador Jörg
Reding, who began his career as economic editor of a Swiss news-paper,
but has now been working for the
Swiss government on trade and economic matters for more than 20
years, one of its main objectives is to
open up foreign markets for Swiss
goods, services and production factors by improving market access conditions. As Switzerland’s most important trading partner, the EU is a
major focus of the organization’s
work. "Three-fifths of our exports are
sent to the EU, while four-fifths of
our imports come from there," notes
Jörg Reding. "We also have close contractual ties with the EU. Seven bilateral agreements with the EU went
into force in 2001."
Economic information
on countries
Jörg Reding
ambassador of Trade
The Bilateral Economic Relations
Division has been very active in three
basic areas: knowledge, advocacy and
organisation. "We gather economic
information on countries, as well as
station counselors in our embassies
abroad to make sure our knowledge
of conditions is up-to-date," ackowledges Jörg Reding. "We advocate
Swiss interests in foreign markets, as
well as defend Swiss companies in
cases of conflict in foreign countries.
And we organise visits for Swiss officials to foreign countries, as well as for
foreign
officials
coming
to
Switzerland."
40
Tradition and innovation
As Switzerland and the EU move
closer, Jörg Reding sees stronger ties
between Belgium and Switzerland.
"Relations with Belgium and Brussels
are increasingly important to us,
especially with EU enlargement," he
says. "We share several similarities
between our two small countries,
such as size of market, population,
diversity in language and culture,
and a spirit of both tradition and
innovation."
SWITZERLAND
Insurance
Helvetia, founded in 1858, is an
example of the potential of
Switzerland’s liberalised insurance
sector. Now ranked number five in
Switzerland, today’s Helvetia is the
product of a merger between the original Helvetia, which offered only
non-life insurance, and a life-insurance company, Patria. Formerly
Helvetia-Patria, this full service
insurance firm has changed its logo
to Helvetia.
Helvetia, founded in 1858, is an
example of the potential of
Switzerland’s liberalised insurance sector. Now ranked number five in
Switzerland, today’s Helvetia is the
product of a merger between the original Helvetia, which offered only nonlife insurance, and a life-insurance
company, Patria. Formerly HelvetiaPatria, this full service insurance firm
has changed its logo to Helvetia.
Helvetia is achieving outstanding
success. As Erich Walser, Chairman
and CEO, points out, “We had very
positive results last year, with a 12 per
cent premium growth in life insurance compared to 2005. At the same
time in the non-life insurance, profit
before tax increased by 80%.” With
such results, he adds, Helvetia represents a very attractive investment
opportunity.Helvetia is very active
internationally, with only around 55
per cent of its business in
Switzerland. “Our activities outside
Switzerland mainly concern non-life
insurance but we are building up
some niches,” Mr Walser explains,
adding that Helvetia is especially
strong in rural areas in southern
Germany, northern Italy and
Andalusia, where Helvetia has acquired a local firm in Seville. “These are
markets where we have been present
Helvetia
Potential of
Switzerland’s liberalised
insurance sector
business in Switzerland. “Our activities outside Switzerland mainly concern non-life insurance but we are
building up some niches,” Mr Walser
explains, adding that Helvetia is especially strong in rural areas in southern Germany, northern Italy and
Andalusia, where Helvetia has acquired a local firm in Seville. “These are
markets where we have been present
for a long time and have built up
great trust,” he says. Helvetia is interested in further improving the market position in its key markets.
Erich Walser
Chairman and CEO
for a long time and have built up
great trust,” he says. Helvetia is interested in further improving the market position in its key markets.
Helvetia is very active internationally, with only around 55 per cent of
its business in Switzerland. “Our activities outside Switzerland mainly concern non-life insurance but we are
building up some niches,” Mr Walser
explains, adding that Helvetia is especially strong in rural areas in southern Germany, northern Italy and
Andalusia, where Helvetia has acquired a local firm in Seville. “These are
markets where we have been present
for a long time and have built up
great trust,” he says. Helvetia is interested in further improving the market position in its key markets.
Helvetia is very active internationally,
with only around 55 per cent of its
41
As its name indicates, Helvetia is
associated with the high quality for
which Switzerland has long been
known. “With the name change to
Helvetia alone, we are promoting our
‘Swissness’, which means security and
stability. The three values that represent our brand and guide our company are trust, drive and enthusiasm,” Mr Walser says.
Helvetia maintains its competitive
edge through providing both life and
non-life insurance and through its
commitment to stability. An advantage in the Swiss market is that
Helvetia has an exclusive partnership
with Raiffeisen, Switzerland’s thirdlargest bank, which offers only
Helvetia insurance products.
Mr Walser concludes, “We have
drive and enthusiasm, and our clients
can trust us.”
SWITZERLAND
Economy
Kugler Bimetal SA
Specialising in advance
technology and long
term quality
As one of the oldest independent
metal-working
companies
in
Switzerland, for the past 150 years
Kugler Bimetal has been specialising in casting and brass founding.
Since 1950, the company has been
the exclusive manufacturer of parts
made of steel/Kugler bronze –Tokat,
which has become an industry standard in solving friction problems.
"We have two divisions in our organization, the engineering and the
production of bimetals," says CEO
Jacques Kugler. "With 70% of our
production
exported
outside
Switzerland, most of our clientele are
from Germany, Italy, the UK and
the US."
speeds, high temperatures and high
accuracy, exist. "We combine bronze
and steel to have the best possible
results in our pro-ducts, increasing
lifetime, and therefore cost efficiency
to the client," notes Jacques Kugler.
"We give top quality service to our
clients, going to their locations and
offering the best possible solutions."
A competitive force in
the industry
Jacques Kugler
CEO
Parts produced by Kugler have
been developed to meet the most
demanding
applications,
where
extreme operating conditions, like
severe mechanical stress, high
Though manufacturing costs in
Switzerland are relatively high, the
quality of the workforce and the
advantages a Geneva location bring to
the company make Kugler a competitive force in the industry. "In Belgium,
we are already working with several
clients," says Jacques Kugler. "We are
open to new ideas and are always ready
to welcome new customers."
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Division BIMETAL • Case postale 26
CH-1219 Le Lignon/GE
Tel.+41 22 796 15 33 • Fax + 41 22 797 01 23
SWITZERLAND
Trade and Industry
Oettinger Davidoff Group
Refining the art of
the cigar
our products are for the enjoyment
and pleasure of res-ponsible adults,"
he says. "I also believe in moderation,
in finding a particular moment to
enjoy a fine cigar and take a break
from these hectic times we live in." A
cigar smoker for over 55 years, he
still enjoys a daily smoke, especially
after dinner. "It’s about enjoying life,
which is something Belgians understand," he continues. "I opened my
first foreign operation in Belgium
and we’ve been very successful.
Belgians like a good smoke. They
know our high quality products and
understand how to appreciate them."
It is always a joy to meet a ‘young’
man in his early 80s, one who has a
zest for life and an appreciation of
life’s pleasures. Such was the experience in speaking with the owner,
president and chairman of the board
of Davidoff, Dr. Ernst Schneider,
but perhaps that should come as no
surprise.
Dr. Ernst Schneider
owner and president
Excellent flavor
For more than three decades, he
has been overseeing the worldwide
expansion of the Davidoff top quality
line of cigars, while making sure the
company’s products meet the
demanding standards and excellent
flavor pioneered by its founder, Zino
Davidoff.
"I also believe in
moderation, in finding
a particular moment
to enjoy a fine cigar
and take a break from
these hectic times we
live in."
It’s about enjoying life
Ernst Schneider is the first to
admit that the image of tobacco products in general has changed in
recent years, yet he believes Davidoff
has always distinguished itself in the
industry. "We make it clear that all
44
Made by hand
Under Ernst Schneider’s leadership, the most important change
Davidoff made was the somewhat
risky move to the Dominican
Republic in 1991. Cuban cigars were
SWITZERLAND
Trade and Industry
The unique taste
of a fine cigar
Zino Davidoff
founder
a standard and loyal customers had
to be convinced the new ones would
be the same quality or better. "The
quantitative thinking in Cuba led to a
decline in quality," he points out. "I
did a lot of research, which led me to
the Dominican Republic. They have
the knowledge and precise handicraft we need, and naturally, all are
made by hand." With 1,000
employees in the country, including
some Swiss staff, they have tried to set
good standards for working conditions. "Production is family-run and
our factories are advanced in comparison to others," he adds. "We really
look after the families as their work is
essential. There are approximately
150 manipulations to make one
cigar, and enormous handicraft and
skill are required."
While cigars have been traditionally associated with older men, that
trend has changed, and according to
Ernst Schneider, more women and
young adults are discovering the
pleasures and unique taste of a fine
cigar. "In general, more women are
smoking than men, so there’s no reason why a lady can’t enjoy a nice
cigar after dinner alone or with her
companion," he says. "Especially a
Davidoff, which offers something for
every taste, from light to strong." He
also thinks that the earlier success
and busy life of many young adults
has led them to think of a cigar as a
relaxing way to slow down and enjoy
a moment of pleasure. "With all of
our products, from our old standards
and new offerings to our li-mited editions, we make sure you can enjoy
your cigar to the end, something you
can’t do with other cigars. You don’t
want your long moment of pleasure
cut short by bad taste."
45
Davidoff Series Millennium Blend
High quality cigar maker
With 50 shops worldwide,
Davidoff is now entering the
Chinese market. "We have two
shops in Shanghai and one in
Peking, but it’s a challenge
because of the black market
there," Ernst Schneider acknowledges. "But as with our cigar production, we’ll take the time necessary and meet the right people to
build trust and make it work. That
is why we have remained the most
consistent and high quality cigar
maker."
SWITZERLAND
Trade and Industry
ABB Sécheron SA
Growing in Geneva
In recent years, the slow down in
world economies has resulted in
dwindling profits and reductions in
the workforce for many companies.
For ABB Sécheron SA, based in
Geneva, Switzerland and a subsidiary of ABB, the leading power
and
automation
technologies
Group, it was not different.
Improve efficiency
"We went all out to improve operational efficiency, whilst developing
both our existing and new markets. It
seems to be paying off. Business
growth is good. And this year, we
have been able to employ more
people. We have reached 220 and the
number is increasing."
A wealth of talent
Jean-Luc Favre
president
They had no choice but to
reduce the numbers employed.
"1995-2001 was the most difficult
period",
says
Jean-Luc
Favre,
President of ABB Sécheron SA,
"when we reduced to our lowest level
of 200 employees from a high of
300."
ABB Sécheron SA specialises in
three market segments: products and
services for trains, for railway power
supply and for electricity distribution. The Company has a wealth of
talent: for example they produced
the world’s first superconducting
transformer.
Located at the heart of
mainland Europe
Jean-Luc puts down the turnround in the Company’s fortunes
first of all to the dedication and
hard work of ABB people and
secondly to the Company’s location – Geneva. "Geneva must be
one of the top places to be based.
It has many advantages over other
locations. Firstly, a strong supportive local government. Secondly, it
is located right at the heart of
mainland Europe, a truly international centre with great infrastructure and first class communications. It is a very attractive place to
live. No wonder more and more
international
companies
are
moving here."
Physical Laboratory, 1940
46
Te c h n o l o g y f o r r a i l w a y
ABB Sécheron
Tel.: +41 (0) 58 586 22 11
Fax: +41 (0) 58 586 20 21
www.abb.com/railway
SWITZERLAND
Trade and Industry
With the level of competition in a
more globalised world, to remain a
leader in any industry, a company
has to be flexible, making sure the
changing demands of established
clients are met while developing new
markets. This strategy has kept the
Model Group, Europe’s leading supplier of corrugated board and corrugated carton packaging, ahead of
the competition. Headquartered in
Switzerland, the Model Group,
which now has 24 companies operating throughout Europe, has experienced tremendous growth over the
past decade.
Model-Holding AG
A philosophy of
being flexible
and Kraft, as well as pharmaceutical
companies, although our top 10
accounts only represent 20% of our
business. Small and medium customers are very important to us." He is
positive that many Belgian companies
could benefit from a relationship with
the Model Group.
A very strong player
in our field
"With the changes in Eastern
Europe back in the early 1990s, we
decided to go into the Czech
Republic," notes Model Group chairman Daniel Model, the fourth generation of his family to work at the
company. "Since then, we’ve entered
into Poland, Austria, Slovakia, and
Croatia, as well as expanding in
Germany and France, and are a very
strong player in our field."
Intelligent and
innovative products
Heavy investment in building new
plants and acquiring existing plants
has allowed the Model Group to grasp
new opportunities when they arise and
act on them. In an extremely competitive environment, especially in
Western Europe, their strong infrastructure and financial position allow
them to focus on innovation and service. "You have to offer intelligent and
innovative products wherever you
are," believes Daniel Model. "I am con-
Daniel Model
Chairman
vinced we can give potential Belgian
clients the products they need and
want, and with the exceptional service
that goes with all our products."
Big clients
Product categories now include
corrugated board and packaging, litho
laminated packaging, offset printed
packaging, displays, standard packaging and supplies, and paper. "In the
high standard packaging product line,
we specialise in the packaging of chocolate and confectionaries, cosmetic
products, textiles, consumer goods
and technical equipment," says Daniel
Model. "We have big clients like Nestle
48
"I still love getting on
the phone regularly
with our customers to
make sure they are
happy with our
products and services.”
A step ahead of
the competition
Although not yet in the Belgian
market, the Model Group is also
expanding its new retail business, the
Pack Shop, where private customers
and small companies can buy smaller
quantities of the company’s products. "Being flexible and easy to
deal with, as well as understanding
and anticipating the trends and
needs of the market have been the
hallmarks of our success here at the
Model Group," acknowledges Daniel
Model. "I still love getting on the
phone regularly with our customers
to make sure they are happy with our
products and services. We intend to
stay a step ahead of the competition."
The fine art of product presentation
www.modelgroup.com
SWITZERLAND
Trade and Industry
Caran d’Ache SA
Celebrating 80 years of
quality and innovation
The keys to the company’s success
have always been innovation and
craftsmanship, starting back in the
1920s when Caran d’Ache introduced the world’s first all-metal mechanical pencil. An intimate understanding of the market and the
needs of different customers have
also set Caran d’Ache apart from its
competitors.
the pen industry for decades,
Silvio Laurenti knows the standards people expect from the company. "As our products occupy a
high class niche, we know our markets well, and the Belgian market
is very important to us," he continues. "Our products truly match
the good taste Belgians have for
special luxury pro-ducts." The new
luxury pen ‘Ivanhoe’ has just been
launched in Belgium.
Silvio Laurenti
CEO
"We produce very special products," says CEO Silvio Laurenti,
"therefore we are keen on seeing
to the specific needs and demands
of our clients." Having worked in
"We want to be
connected to excellent
quality by all our
customers."
Quality has no limit’s
With a philosophy that states
‘quality has no limit’s,’ Caran d’Ache
has received much recognition and
numerous prizes for outstanding
quality and design, especially for its
exquisite Limited Editions. Last year,
in tribute to St. Petersburg’s 300th
Anniversary, 300 gold-plated fountain and ballpoint pens were produced. "We want to be connected to
excellent quality by all our customers" notes Silvio Laurenti, "from
the young schoolchildren using our
colour pencils to the executives finding the pleasure of writing with a
gold-plated ballpoint pen."
ECRIDOR
80th ANNIVERSARY
ballpoint pen
in solid gold,
in a limited edition
of 80 pieces
CARAN d’ACHE SA - geneva - switzerland
www.carandache.com
SWITZERLAND
Pharmaceutical Industry
Knoll AG
A proud history of expertise
and innovation
As the pharmaceutical industry becomes more global,
companies must rely on their strengths to remain competitive and successful. Knoll AG, operating out of its facilities in Liestal, Switzerland for the past 110 years, has
used its knowledge and experience to remain a leader in
pharmaceutical production.
While Knoll maintains its independence as a Swiss
company, 80% of sales are now within Abbott, with the
remaining 20% sold directly to Knoll’s clients. "Since
Abbott products are sold in more than 130 countries,"
notes Managing Director Reto Randegger, "this has obviously had a positive effect on our business. Our location
just outside of Basel also makes us Abbott’s representative
here in the pharmaceutical heart of Europe."
A high level of management and
control
Knoll not only prides itself on its tradition of quality
pharmaceutical ingredients, which are produced in
advanced equipment using the latest technologies, but
the community-based company also puts great effort
into environmental and corporate responsibility. "We
are proud of being ISO 14001 certified, a standard that
demonstrates a high level of environmental management and control," says Reto Randegger. "We are also
an FDA approved manufacturer, with an EN 9001 certificate for quality assurance, an industry standard of
quality recognized worldwide. When it comes to
Abbott's impact on the environment, we are very proactive in meeting regulations."
more into chemical production," points out Reto
Randegger, "we are always
open to business initiatives
from other companies." The
company has now achieved a
yearly production of 480
tons of bulk API. Reto
Randegger feels Knoll’s thorough expertise and knowhow could be particularly
beneficial to a Belgian firm.
Reto Randegger
director
"Belgium is known for its
pharmaceutical companies," he continues, "and it is
clear there would be benefits for both sides." With a
corporate goal of making new therapeutic successes
possible and bringing increased benefits to patients
and customers, Knoll is enthusiastically committed to a
future of quality and innovation.
Abbott Laboratories is a global, broad-based health
care company devoted to the discovery, development,
manufacture and marketing of pharmaceuticals, nutritionals and medical products, including devices and diagnostics. The company employs more than 70,000 people
and markets its products in more than 130 countries.
Quality and innovation
Although a subsidiary of Abbott, Knoll can take its
own initiative in exploring joint business efforts with
other firms. "Especially since we are moving more and
Basel
52
For more than 100 years, Abbott Laboratories – one of the
word's top health care companies – has been committed to
developing, manufacturing and marketing products and
services that span the continuum of care – from prevention and diagnosis, to treatment and cure. Abbott
casts a keen focus on areas with the greatest unmet
medical need, such as cancer, infectious diseases,
diabetes, obesity, immunology, and cardiovascular
disease.
With industry-leading internal research capabilities, Abbott, combines science and innovation to
develop breakthrough medical technologies
that advance patient care through leading
pharmaceuticals
and
medical
products,
including diagnostics, medical devices and
nutritionals.
More than 70,000 employees worldwide,
including those at Knoll AG, a wholly
owned subsidiary of Abbott Laboratories,
support Abbott’s vision to be the world’s
premier health care company, and to
bring maximum benefit to patients.
SWITZERLAND
Information Technology
At the end of August 2002, Hewlett
Packard (HP) announced its decision to keep its European headquarters, which is also responsible for the
Middle East and Africa, in Geneva.
"We are happy the way Geneva state
has supported us right from the
beginning," states HP’s Suisse
Romande (French speaking part of
Switzerland) General Manager
Jean-Max Arbez. "Our offices are a
good example of multinationals
here. The staff is multinational,
most European languages are spoken, and the easy access to government has helped us all the way."
HP is by far the largest IT company in Switzerland, with approximately 1,500 employees and a 2002
turnover of 1.9 billion CHF. HP
holds the top spot in almost all the
areas it competes in, with market
shares of 37% in desktop computing, 17% in mobile computing,
57% in Intel services, 48% in the
UNIX business, 52% in inkjet printers and 64% in LaserJet. "We
remain successful by partnering
with our clients to understand their
needs," notes Jean-Max Arbez.
"Our clientele range from individuals to companies and governments.
In Geneva, like in Brussels, one of
the key activities is private banking.
To stay in the lead in this sector, HP
is currently investigating partnering up with a Belgian company".
Willingness to meet
challenges
Operations at HP are divided
into four groups. The Imaging
and Printing Group (IPG) works
on developing printers, scanners
and cameras. The Personal
Systems Group (PSG) is responsi-
Hewlett Packard (HP)
An innovative
atmosphere reigns in
multinational Geneva
Jean-Max Arbez
director
ble for designing and making PCs
and laptops. End-to-end servers, storage and software solutions, as well
as modular and related consulting
and integration services are taken
care of by the Technology Solutions
Group (TSG), while the Customer
Solutions Group (CSG) is focused
on aligning technology to business
needs of specific market segments.
In Switzerland, there is a strong
synergy between all the groups.
"With our management structure
and style, we’ve created a creative
atmosphere around here, one
where individuals are encouraged
to be open and innovative." He
points out that HP produces on
average about 5 patents a day.
"Although not all of these patents
make it to end users, it shows the
54
spirit of creativity at HP and the willingness to meet challenges."
The company plans to continue
expanding into new markets and solutions while putting a strong focus on
Adaptive Enterprise, Best Return on
IT investments, and rapidity and agility in providing the most appropriate
solutions to customers’ specific needs.
With 15 R & D centers around the
continent and over 300 scientists providing world-class input into the next
generations of IT products, HP’s
European arm is responsible for a
third of the company’s fundamental
research. "With its first-class infrastructure, high quality of life, excellent universities and well-qualified workforce,"
acknowledges
Jean-Max
Arbez,
"Geneva is the place to be."
SWITZERLAND
Information Technology
Microsoft
Aachen chosen as base for
leading collaborative applied IT
research facility
of the first steps in the development
phase. Creating new ideas and concepts is our strength.” The European
Microsoft Innovation Center employs
around 40 scientists and engineers,
and plans on expanding its staff by
around 10 people in the near future.
The European Microsoft Innovation
Center (EMIC), founded in Aachen
in 2003, is Microsoft’s fourth facility in Europe dedicated to product
research and development, and is
the first Microsoft facility to focus on
collaborative applied research.
Dr. Götz-Philip Brasche
program director and spokesman
Dr. Götz-Philip Brasche, program
director and spokesman of the
European Microsoft Innovation
Center EMIC, explains that this
research approach is unique to
Microsoft in its goal of contributing
to
Europe-wide
public-sector
research programs.
The innovation center targets the
creation of advanced technology that
could be on the market within three
to six years. As Götz-Philip Brasche
says, “We are experts in dealing with
the specific problems and challenges
of the first steps in the development
phase. Creating new ideas and concepts is our strength.” The European
Microsoft
Innovation
Center
employs around 40 scientists and
engineers, and plans on expanding
its staff by around 10 people in the
near future. The innovation center
targets the creation of advanced
technology that could be on the market within three to six years. As GötzPhilip Brasche says, “We are experts
in dealing with the specific problems
and challenges of the first steps in
the development phase. Creating
new ideas and concepts is our
strength.” The European Microsoft
Innovation Center employs around
40 scientists and engineers, and
plans on expanding its staff by
around 10 people in the near future.
The innovation center targets the
creation of advanced technology that
could be on the market within three
to six years. As Götz-Philip Brasche
says, “We are experts in dealing with
the specific problems and challenges
56
The IT research center focuses
on developing new technologies that
ensure security and privacy, creating
‘smarter’ devices that employ mobile
and wireless technologies, and developing web services technologies.
“Our staff is working on the extension of web services technologies to
new platforms, new environments
and new application domains,”GötzPhilip Brasche says.
Aachen was choosen as base.
Explaining the choice, Götz-Philip
Brasche cites the University of
Aachen, with which the innovation
center regularly collaborates and
whose best students Microsoft often
employs, as well as Aachen’s strategic
location in the heart of North Rhine
Westphalia and the easy access to the
research centers of Ford and Philips.
He says, “We work closely with our
academic and business partners.
Working with other European partners is essential for us because we
need to deliver solutions that work
on different platforms and are well
suited for European needs.”
For further information please
contact Dr. Götz-Philip Brasche at
emicinfo@microsoft.com.
We Transform ideas
into Technology.
Hand-in-hand with our
partners.
SWITZERLAND
Information Technology
Philips
Quality-oriented supplier of
automotive lighting solutions
outclasses its competitor
tive headlight lamps, and is responsible for product development, mechanization, production, product marketing, sales and distribution. This
Euregio company is international in
outlook and employs staff from
Belgium and the Netherlands as well.
Philips Automotive Lighting, a
business unit of Royal Philips
Electronics, is one of the world’s top
suppliers of safety- and performanceoriented lighting solutions for the
automotive industry and aftermarket. The company employs the latest
technologies and has established a
strong reputation as the partner of
choice for companies seeking impeccable products and services.
Paul van den Kerkhoff
supply group manager
Defining his company’s competitive edge, particularly concerning
competition from Asian manufacturers of similar products, Paul van den
Kerkhoff says, “Philips is recognized
worldwide as the company with the
best quality. In the auto industry,
there is strong demand for top quality, and the quality of our products
beats the competition. Philips
Automotive Lighting is dedicated to
providing best-in-class products and
services.”
Paul van den Kerkhoff, supply
group manager, explains that Philips
Automotive Lighting employs some
3,800 people worldwide, and operates manufacturing facilities in
Germany, France, Poland, Brazil, the
People’s Republic of China and
South Korea.
One of the ways Philips
Automotive Lighting ensures customer satisfaction is by soliciting
clients’ opinions and taking them
into account when developing products. “We listen to what customers
see as quality, and it’s fascinating to
see how they get involved,” Paul van
den Kerkhoff points out.
The business center in Aachen
serves as a business center as well as
the company’s main production center for halogen car lamps. It is also
charged with technology development
for
Philips
Automotive
Lighting throughout the world. The
Aachen center specializes in innova-
“We are a high-tech company that
successfully makes use of the region’s
infrastructure, people, and technology,”
Paul van den Kerkhoff concludes. “We
are a high-tech company that successfully
makes use of the region’s infrastructure,
people, and technology,” Paul van den
Kerkhoff concludes.
58
SWITZERLAND
Tourism
Avis
‘We Try Harder’
is more than a slogan
With decades of experience serving
customers in Switzerland, it is no
wonder that Avis is the number one
car rental company in the country.
For the past three years, Avis
Switzerland, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Avis Europe, has received
the Travel-star Award for Car Hire
Company of the Year for best performance in the Swiss travel sector.
One step ahead of our
competitors
A variety of brands and
models
Considering that the voting was
done by over 800 tour operators and
travel agents Avis’ consistent excellence is a major accomplishment.
The company employs 150 permanent staff to service its network of
rental points, and keeps a minimum
of 1,800 new cars and 130 commercial vehicles in its fleet, with up to
2,500 cars in the high season. "No car
in our highly attractive fleet is in
average more than 9 months old,"
notes Andreas Gartmann, "and we
offer a variety of brands and models
to perfectly match your needs."
"Avis Switzerland has
got a very enthusiastic,
dynamic team.
We have the best
trained people and we
focus on customer
demand.”
The best in the business
"We believe that long-term competitive advantage can only be achieved by staying one step ahead of our
competitors," acknowledges managing director Andreas Gartmann.
Having been with the company since
1976 and steering it through steady
success, he is happy to share this
achievement with his team, who he
considers the best in the business.
"Avis Switzerland has got a very enthusiastic, dynamic team. We have the
best trained people and we focus on
customer demand."
60
In tune with
the demands of clients
They range small, fully equipped
city cars to 4X4 wagons and SUVs for
wintertime leisure travel. Corporate customers make up half of the clientele, so
Avis is in tune with the demands of business clients, offering quick check
in/out with the new PEARL automated
system, customer recognition and convenient rental points.
We try harder
"Benelux is one of our valued corporate customers, representing 5-6%
of our client base," says Andreas
Gartmann. "We feel a positive trend
that business is turning around and
we are prepared. Whether its for
business or leisure, try Avis and we’ll
try harder."
For business and pleasure.
Avis wants you to enjoy
every moment.
And this has never been
easier:
Book your rental car with
just a few clicks at
www.avis.ch.
Or call our international
reservation office:
+41 (0)848 81 18 18.
Avis recommends Opel cars
SWITZERLAND
Tourism
Hotel zum Storchen
A wonderful blend of
traditional and modern
The Limmat River runs through the
heart of old Zurich, with centuriesold beautiful architecture lining its
banks. Nestled in the center of old
town, right next to the Limmat,
business and leisure travelers looking for a memorable experience will
find one of Zurich’s most famous
and special hotels – Hotel zum
Storchen. As a guesthouse for more
than 600 years, Hotel zum Storchen
has been providing guests with outstanding service and personal attention, eversince. "Our superior, first
class hotel blends the traditional
with the modern," notes general
manager Jean-Philippe Jaussi,
whose enthusiasm over his job is
only surpassed by his love of the
hotel. "Very personal service in a
cozy atmosphere has made us
famous throughout the years."
the lake in the background," says
Jean-Philippe Jaussi. "Our restaurant,
La Rotisserie, is known for its excellent food." The hotel’s 75 rooms
have all been renovated and feature
air conditioning, remote adjustable
beds
and
exquisite
marble
bathrooms.
Hotel zum Storchen, which
takes its name from a stork who
nested on the roof long ago, bringing good luck, boasts some outstanding features. They have
recently enlarged the terrace overlooking the Limmat, where both
guests and Zurich residents come
to enjoy a relaxing drink or a full
meal. "It’s wonderful to sit here in
the summer, along the water with
Since the vast majority of guests at
Hotel zum Storchen are business travelers, the hotel is well-equipped to
handle all their needs. "We have wireless internet through the hotel,"
points out Jean-Philippe Jaussi.
"Guests can work in their rooms or on
a comfy sofa by the lobby fireplace."
The hotel’s conference rooms offer
the latest in communication and
audio-visual technologies, and the
business center has all the facilities.
Jean-Philippe Jaussi
general manager
62
"At our hotel," he adds, "we make sure
our guests are well taken care of."
A really strong team
The hotel is part of the Summit
Hotels and Resorts group, whose 145
unique and culturally elegant luxury
hotels can be found in 100 destinations worldwide, so travelers are assured of a comfortable stay. Yet, as JeanPhilippe Jaussi puts it, the personal
service by the hotel’s highly trained
staff really makes a stay unforgettable. "The nicest thing is the personal
contact we have with our guests. We
have a really strong team here, and
we make it a point to know a guest’s
name, and not only when someone
like Kofi Annan stays here."
Hotel zum Storchen
Zurich
A real must in Zurich
The only hotel directly
on the Limmat river.
Hotel zum Storchen
Am Weinplatz 2 • CH-8001 Zurich 22
Schweiz Suisse Switzerland
Telephone: + 41 1 227 2727, Fax: + 41 1 227 2700
Internet: www.storchen.ch, E-Mail: info@storchen.ch
SWITZERLAND
Tourism
Hilton Basel
Where every guest receives
VIP treatment
Basel, located close to both France
and Germany, has long been one of
Switzerland’s centers of business
and culture. Visitors coming to the
city for business or pleasure can find
‘a home away from home’ at the
Hilton Basel, conveniently located
in the heart of the city near the railway station and shopping districts.
A wide range of services
and facilities
"We provide a wide range of services and facilities for all of our
guests," assures general manager Urs
Hitz, who has been with the hotel for
29 years. "We are the ‘small, large
hotel’ in Basel, since we are very
flexible to individual demands and
wishes, and yet can also host
banquets and large conferences."
A personalized feeling
The international character of
Basel’s tourists and business travellers requires a hotel that can welcome guests from all over the world.
The Hilton Basel achieves this goal,
with a highly trained professional
staff from 28 countries. "We make
sure to give every guest a personalized feeling," says Urs Hitz. "Even the
cooks in our restaurant, which is
64
SWITZERLAND
Tourism
known for its delicious local and
international cuisine, have worked in
places such as Hong Kong, New York,
Paris, South America and the Middle
East."
We are fully equipped
for pleasure or
business, with a sauna
and relaxing rooms as
well as every type of
meeting and
conference room."
Fully equipped
The hotels’ 214 guest rooms
include 11 suites and an Executive
floor, situated on the top floor with
an excellent view of the city. Every
room offers a minibar, internet connection, international TV channels
and in-house movies. "We are fully
equipped for pleasure or business,"
notes Urs Hitz, "with a sauna and
relaxing rooms as well as every type
of meeting and conference room."
The Hilton’s newly built, state-of-theart equipped auditorium, which seats
220, has already hosted a variety of
events. The auditorium is, as he puts
it, "in all aspects, one of the most
modern ones in Switzerland." The
hotel also features special rooms and
equipment for its disabled guests. All
guests receive a ‘mobility ticket’, allowing unlimited access to Basel’s
public transportation.
The art of making each
guest feel special
With a substantial amount of business taking place between local companies and Belgian firms, the Hilton
Basel has made the extra effort to
create a contemporary, businessfriendly environment. As Urs Hitz
points out, "I myself used to work at
the Hilton in Brussels, so I have a
special interest in being the best
hotel for our Belgian guests." He is
65
Urs Hitz
director
proud of the executive accommodations, adding, "Our extremely popular
Executive floor is a special place to
relax, and find assistance and business support from the Business
Center." Whatever your reason for
visiting Basel, the hotel staff understands the art of making each guest
feel special. "At the Hilton Basel,
every guest is a VIP."
SWITZERLAND
Tourism
Arabella Sheraton Neues Schloss
Discreet charm in the heart
of Zurich
we call ‘IT Butler George’ – a computer and printer which can be moved
right into the rooms of our guests,"
notes Robert Frisch. The large rooms
offer plenty of wardrobe space and a
well-stocked mini bar. "We are seeing
an increase again in the business travel sector," he adds. "With the strong
euro, we expect an increase in our
business as well." As part of the
Arabella group, hotel guests earn
points during their stay, which can be
used at other affiliated hotels and airlines.
When traveling to Zurich on business, the ideal place to stay is a hotel
that offers comfortable rooms, fine
dining, excellent busi-ness services,
and a convenient yet discreet location, all with a personal touch.
The Hotel Arabella Sheraton
Neues Schloss, situated just one
block from Bahnhofstrasse and
only 200 meters from the lake,
provides its clientele with all this
and more. "We have a nice boutique feeling here, being a smaller
hotel right downtown," says general manager Robert Frisch. "And
we personalise our services as
much as possible." Upon entering
the relaxed lobby, one can sense
30 different wines
by the glass
Robert Frisch
general manager
the difference. "Instead of a high
reception desk, guests sit down with
our staff, perhaps with something to
drink, while they are assisted with
check-in," he continues. "We make
sure our guests are comfortable."
Early check-in and late
check-out
With 90% of the clientele being
business guests, special attention is
given to meet their needs. Early
check-in and late check-out is standard. "I think we’re the only hotel to
offer a mobile business center, which
66
A step-by-step renovation over the
last few years has given the hotel a continuously fresh feeling. Their newlyrenovated restaurant, Le Jardin, features excellent French/Swiss cuisine and
is highly competitive with other restaurants nearby. "Since business clients
are often traveling alone or in twos, we
offer 30 different wines by the glass,"
says Robert Frisch. "In both our restaurant and redecorated bar, we’ve worked to create an atmosphere that adds
to the total hotel experience. Nothing
makes us happier than to welcome
back repeat clientele." With Zurich
now gaining a reputation as one of
Europe’s more exciting cities, as well
as a great place to do business, the
Arabella Sheraton Neues Schloss is
ready to help make your stay in the city
an unforgettable pleasure.
Luxembourg’s Meeting and Conference Hotel
With its 14 fully equipped conference rooms and responsive
service, the Luxembourg Hilton has the best facilities
to offer for your conferences, seminars and meetings.
Between sessions, gourmets will enjoy the “Les Continents”
restaurant and ‘Le Café Stiffchen’, two of Luxembourg’s
gastronomic top spots.
The Summit
for your Conferences.
Our spacious and comfortable Business rooms
are equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
We have recreational facilities to satisfy even our most
demanding guests: our swimming pool, sauna, and exercise
rooms will provide the relaxation you deserve.
12, Rue Jean Engling L-1466 Luxembourg Grand Duchy of Luxemburg Tel. (352) 43 78 1 Fax (352) 43 60 95
www.hilton.com Hilton Worldwide Reservations 00 800 444 586 67
Swiss insurance expertise.
A secure feeling.
Just ask us.
Helvetia Insurance, T +41 58 280 1000 (24 h), www.helvetia.ch