The KMU Swiss Autumn Symposium was held for the 15th time. 250 personalities met in Brugg on September 5 to gain inspiration and network. Around 30 exhibitors framed the program during the breaks with their products and services.

In his welcoming address, Armin Baumann, initiator of KMU Swiss, emphasized that economic sector 2 (industry and commerce) is the main pillar of an economy. He also mentioned that jobs are being outsourced in this sector and that there is a shortage of workers. Increasing regulations, laws and objections would also prevent rapid adaptation to new circumstances. As the initiator of the OYM, Dr. Hans-Peter Strebel recounted his exciting career from pharmacist to pharmaceutical manufacturer to the initiator of the OYM and the hurdles and obstacles that had to be overcome. Chris Oeuvrai gave a fitting presentation on the effects of narcissism in business and showed how such people can be recognized.

The second block of presentations was opened by Regina Kuratle, Head of the Center for Continuing Education at the Schwyz University of Teacher Education. She explained education policy and what it could and should contribute. This was followed by Sigrun Gudjonsdottir from Iceland and Switzerland, who showed how "mainly home-based" women are continuing their education online to become successful entrepreneurs and thus take responsibility for themselves. Carol Häusermann then shed light on working models from history to the modern age and their respective effects and gave her outlook on the future of work.

In the final block of speeches, the highest political dignitary in Aargau, Cantonal Councillor Dr. Markus Dieth - the current mayor of the canton - spoke about Aargau as an "employer" at the heart of the Basel-Winterthur-Lucerne economic triangle, which accounts for two thirds of GDP. Patrizia Laeri, CEO of ellex, journalist and former SRF stock exchange presenter, explained how women can be recruited as skilled workers. This could be achieved through more flexible day structures and parental leave, among other things.

The event concluded with the presentation of the "Swiss Entrepreneur Award", which was initiated by the business magazine Prestige Business and KMU Swiss. The award recognizes a Swiss company or entrepreneur who has created sustainable value through far-sighted action. The choice was made by the expert jury, which consists of selected Swiss executives. Leandro Niederer, owner of Hergiswiler Glas, was named the winner of the 2024 award. Popularly known as "Glasi Hergiswil", the company impresses with its traditional, high-quality craftsmanship and has a 200-year history. With its exclusively handmade glass work, the company is the last glassworks in Switzerland. The Niederer family rescued the company in 1975 and led it to new shores. Today, Leandro Niederer is the third generation to run the company.

Outlook

The next KMU Swiss Symposium will take place in Baden on March 20, 2025. Its topic, "Creativity and corporate culture: the basis for sustainable innovation", will once again bring exciting speakers and guests to Baden.