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