IMD recently hosted the 4th Edition of the Vaud International Business Awards (PVEI) and welcomed over 350 entrepreneurs, CEOs and representatives from the Canton of Vaud, Switzerland. The event is organized each year to highlight the contribution of both SMEs and multinational companies, which contribute to the reputation and prosperity of the canton.
In her welcome address, Marlène Borcard, Head of the IMD President’s Office and General Counsel, stressed the importance of the stable legislative environment for Swiss enterprises and praised the resilience of the Swiss system which consistently maintains innovation and competitiveness at the top of its agenda.
“In Switzerland, even if every citizen has the final say by way of the right to vote, everyone must keep a mind-set open to compromises so that legislative changes are predictable, that the time of their implementation is known and that we can have a competitive environment conducive to the development, stability and innovation of our companies which we can all be proud of,” said Ms. Borcard.
Philippe Leuba, State Councillor, Minister of economic affairs, innovation and sport also pointed out that fiscal reforms have to be implemented quickly in order to preserve the attractiveness of the Canton (referring to a new cantonal reform as of 2019). He also said that the three companies awarded this year reflect the diversified economic environment of the region and their capacity to adapt to market changes.
The 2017 winners are the following:
- “Foreign company” category: Merck, a science and technology company active in healthcare, life science and performance materials.
- “Swiss company” category: LEMO, specialized in the design and manufacture of precision custom connection and cable solutions (Push-Pull connectors) and active in several fields including medical, industrial control, test and measurement, audio-video and telecommunications.
- “Jury’s special prize” category: Wider, a carpentry and cabinet-making company which has longstanding expertise in designing indoor wooden fittings.
During their acceptance speeches, this year’s champions attributed their success to similar qualities: A long-term positioning in their respective niche markets, passion, and the importance of doing business in a Canton that offers a stable environment and a talented workforce.
IMD warmly congratulates the winners.
