Top Stories from Western Switzerland (June 2025)

From sustainable business leadership to pioneering atomic timekeeping and next-generation hospitals, discover Western Switzerland’s top stories from June 2025.

How business can regenerate the planet (A conversation with André Hoffmann)

André Hoffmann, Vice Chairman of Roche, joins Getting Serious with Woody Wade to discuss how businesses can shift from extractive models to regenerative ones. Drawing from his book The New Nature of Business, Hoffmann explores the role of biodiversity, rethinking capitalism, and the power of Switzerland’s democratic model in driving systemic change. This episode is available on YouTube and Spotify.

Bern-based medtech AirScale develops smart weighing solution for immobile patients

AirScale is tackling a long-standing challenge in healthcare: weighing bedridden patients. Its smart sensor-based system integrates with hospital IT platforms to deliver accurate, automated weight readings directly from under the bed. Backed by public support and tested at top Swiss hospitals, the technology is expected to launch commercially in 2026.

Fribourg: The Growth Hub of Switzerland – A Video Series (Part 6/8)

Episode 6 of the Fribourg Growth Hub series highlights the canton’s advances in sustainable construction. With institutions like EPFL and the Smart Living Lab driving research into decarbonized steel, wood-enriched concrete, and biosourced materials, Fribourg is shaping the future of eco-conscious building.

CHUV opens new bladder cancer center combining advanced care and interdisciplinary expertise

CHUV in Lausanne has opened a new bladder cancer center offering patient-centered care through integrated surgery, systemic therapies, and radiology. A dedicated nurse supports each patient throughout their journey, while the multidisciplinary setup accelerates access to cutting-edge treatments and fosters clinical research.

Neuchâtel welcomes Rolex Quantum and the future of timekeeping

Rolex has launched Rolex Quantum SA in Neuchâtel to develop optical atomic clocks in collaboration with CSEM. Housed at the historic Neuchâtel Observatory, the venture aims to improve timekeeping standards worldwide with ultra-precise rubidium-based clocks, advancing beyond traditional cesium technology.

Superlab expands to Geneva with new lab at Campus Biotech

Superlab Suisse is opening its fourth national site at Geneva’s Campus Biotech, offering modular, fully equipped lab space for life sciences start-ups. Set to open in 2026, the facility strengthens the Lake Geneva region’s position as one of Europe’s top biotech hubs, connecting young companies to academic and industrial leaders.

Switzerland tops IMD’s 2025 World Competitiveness Ranking

Switzerland has regained the top spot in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, scoring highest in government efficiency and infrastructure. Despite modest dips in economic performance and business efficiency, the country remains a global benchmark for stability, innovation, and institutional strength.

How Switzerland maintains a competitive industrial edge

In a feature interview, GGBa CEO Thomas Bohn outlines how Switzerland, and especially Western Switzerland, continues to lead in high-value manufacturing. With clusters in medtech, biotech, watchmaking, and automation, the region’s resilience is powered by R&D investment, sustainability, and strong collaboration between academia and industry. He also highlights the role of GGBa in attracting foreign investment, facilitating public-private partnerships, and fostering innovation through deep integration with local academic and industrial ecosystems.