Knowledge on succession planning for Swiss SMEs

Our investments are focused on companies with annual revenue of at least CHF 10 million and 50 employees. However, size and profitability are not the only factors that matter. We also consider the business model, leadership, alignment of values, and whether long-term ownership is the right fit.

A range of industries may be considered. Our portfolio spans from mineral water sources and drive technology to school furniture and sports equipment. The industry itself is not the deciding factor. What matters is whether the company is financially healthy, capable of operating independently, and aligned with our values and commitment to sustainability.

Our model is not suited to turnaround and restructuring cases, purely financial investments, passive investments without active involvement, or business models that conflict with the values of F.G. Pfister.

The process typically takes six to twelve months. The timeline depends on the starting point, the preparation on the seller’s side, the company structure, and the due diligence process.

You explain your situation, we listen, and we provide an honest assessment of whether your company could be a potential fit for us. The meeting lasts thirty to sixty minutes, is confidential, non-binding, and involves no follow-up costs.

You will typically meet with Felice Facchini, Chairman of the Investment Committee. He is directly involved in evaluating and supporting investments.

Employees, locations, and company culture are key elements of our evaluation process. We invest in companies because they work, and that includes the team. Overall, the companies in our portfolio secure around [XX] jobs in Switzerland. Decisions regarding personnel changes are made by the management team, not by us.

This is decided on an individual basis. Some previous owners remain involved in an advisory capacity or on the board of directors for a transition period. Others step away after the transition. The important thing is to clarify this role early on.

Operational responsibility remains with the management team. We contribute at the board of directors level, support strategy, investments, and leadership matters, and ensure professional governance. The companies remain independent.

The F.G. Pfister Stiftung is the owner of F.G. Pfister. It provides the structural foundation for our long-term investment model and is subject to cantonal supervision.

Potential investments are reviewed by the Investment Committee. The Board of Directors of F.G. Pfister is responsible for the final decisions. The assessment considers the business model, profitability, leadership, alignment of values, and strategic fit within the portfolio.