Xylem is a global leader in the field of water technology and opened the HQ for its European markets in Schaffhausen in 2011. All key corporate functions are today located in the companys new offices next to the railway station in Schaffhausen.
Tomas Brannemo, Senior Vice President and President of Xylem Europe is more than convinced about the benefits Schaffhausen has to offer. «Being located in Schaffhausen, we really benefit from being so close to Zurich international airport, just half an hour away. There are also great road and rail links, providing access to the rest of Europe and then there’s the brilliant environment here. What’s not to like?» he explains. Many of the company’s 80 staff regularly travel to the global HQ in New York. And every time they do, according to Brannemo, they’re delighted they can get to and from the airport and be back at their desks so quickly. «All key corporate functions are co-located here, whether that’s Human Resources, Supply Chain Management, Marketing or Finance», Tomas Brannemo explains. Xylem’s arrival in Schaffhausen was no accident – the company evaluated and compared the options in several cantons. The dedication and support of the local Economic Promotion Team is said to have been an important factor in the decision to choose Schaffhausen.
Ideal environment for staff
In all, the company currently employs today around 80 staff from 20 different countries at its base in Schaffhausen. Many recognise the canton’s strengths as a family-friendly place to live which offers great recreational activity. Staff living in nearby Zurich also enjoy being able to work right by the railway station, as many use public transport to get to work. And it’s not just staff who love the location, Xylem’s visitors are said to be delighted that they can get off a train in Schaffhausen station and are a stone’s throw from the company’s offices.
About the author
Christoph Schärrer is Official Chief Representative of Economic Promotion of the Canton of Schaffhausen. Schaffhausen is a dynamic and flourishing commercial region in the heart of Europe and a prime location for international and innovative businesses. The Economic Promotion is your expert partner for all questions about locating and doing business in Schaffhausen and is looking forward hearing from you.
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