�۶���Ƶ

Rich in experience – fresh in thinking. This is how Imbach & CIE AG describes its core competencies as a traditional company. Even after more than 130 years, the former hammer works from Nebikon in Lucerne still benefits from its long tradition of craftsmanship, to which it has added modern manufacturing expertise over time. Today, around 90 employees produce high-precision metal components. The company has evolved over the past decades from a pure component manufacturer to a solution provider. By strategically extending the value chain, Imbach provides its customers with tailor-made solutions from a single source. Imbach components are used in Stadler trains, the particle accelerator at CERN in Geneva and the PC-12 aircraft manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft, among others.

When Anton and Joseph Imbach founded their company at the end of the 19th century, they could never have imagined that they were laying the foundation for an innovative family business that would span generations. The family has preserved the blacksmith’s craft throughout this time without losing sight of new trends and changes. Recently, Imbach & CIE AG has focused primarily on optimizing and streamlining its processes, going digital where possible, reducing costs and conserving resources. 

As Sandra Imbach explains, despite its foresight and innovative spirit, her company is constantly facing new challenges, and the current global situation plays a crucial role: “The global economy – especially the economic situation in Germany and Europe – is a key factor for us. We immediately notice when our customers are facing economic challenges.” Due to the current economic downturn, some projects are being postponed or not realized at all. Imbach plans to counteract this with a sound strategy and consistent implementation, especially in active market development. 

We are constantly training our resilience so that changes from without do not trigger a crisis within.

Sandra Imbach is also clearly feeling the effects of US tariff policy and the associated increase in price pressure: “On the one hand, we are seeing a decline in demand and a sharp increase in cost and price pressure from our customers.” She further explains: “In our industry, our resilience is constantly being tested in new ways, as we strive to prevent external changes from leading to internal crises.”

As an entrepreneur, Sandra injects a spirit of innovation and a willingness to change into her team by recruiting new talent. However, she notes that the search for suitable specialists is becoming increasingly difficult. “The basis of a successful company is its employees. We are also noticing a significant change here. Whereas we used to be able to find new colleagues locally, now we have to search beyond our immediate catchment area.” Even for Sandra Imbach herself, the path to becoming CEO was not clear from the outset. With a doctorate in law, she has now been with the company for over seven years, the last four of which as chief executive. She now appreciates the diverse tasks, challenges and creative freedom that come with being the CEO of a family-owned metal industry business. 

For Sandra Imbach, it is important that her financial partner �۶���Ƶ has a deep understanding of the industry. “We benefit greatly from the fact that �۶���Ƶ really understands our needs. Our client advisor has exceptional knowledge and understanding of our business model. As an SME in a capital-intensive industry, we are particularly dependent on a sound strategic dialogue with the bank”, explains Imbach. “We regularly procure equipment and machines, including from abroad. Professional support, for example in the leasing business, is therefore essential. �۶���Ƶ knows how to handle these transactions for us and supports us from start to finish.”