2nd Zürioberland Innovation Apéro

Lukas Willi, Head of Operations at the Werkheim Uster, began by welcoming those present. The Mehrwerk in the Lorenquartier is the newest Mehrwerk location. Lukas Willi presents the various activities of the Werkheim that are carried out in the building - from order processing and fulfillment to assembly technology, recycling work and catering services.

Innovation as an important component of robust supply chains

Martin Tschirky, Member of the Management Board of Bank BSU, then reported on his experiences in optimizing the company's supply chains. The reduction in paper consumption was particularly impressive: from 1.5 tons in 2019, this was reduced by a third by 2024. Electricity consumption has also fallen considerably in recent years.

However, these savings were only possible because a detailed inventory of paper and electricity consumption was carried out beforehand. Tschirky made it clear that clean and data-based recording of resources is the first decisive step towards optimizing supply chains. Without precise data, no targeted measures can be derived. In this respect, an inventory is a fundamental approach to identifying inefficiencies in the supply chain and achieving sustainable improvements. Data therefore forms the basis for any efficient supply chain management. Tschirky also emphasized that it is important to start in small steps. Small, measurable successes are not only easier to implement, but also form the basis for further optimization throughout the entire supply chain.

In her opening keynote speech, Prof. Dr. Katharina Luban from the Innovation Network Eastern Switzerland(INOS) highlighted the benefits of excellent supply chains based on smart procurement management. She emphasized how important it is to optimize supply chains not only in terms of costs and inventories, but also to manage risks and integrate sustainability initiatives. An innovative approach is essential, especially in times of volatile markets.

Convincing advantages of cooperations and alliances

Susanne Landolt, owner of adinum.ch, shed light on the possibilities of purchasing cooperations and purchasing alliances. By merging several companies, not only could prices be reduced, but competitive advantages and synergies could also be achieved. The exchange of knowledge within such collaborations is just as valuable as the pure cost savings.

Thomas Girelli, COO Eugen Seitz AG, introduced the participants to the practice of the material pool and the purchasing association. Using the example of "AlliTell", a purchasing association that has existed since 1999, he demonstrated the advantages of a joint purchasing strategy. Networking and the exchange of information in particular play a central role in such alliances.

Finally, Giacinto In-Albon summarized the most important findings of the day and pointed out various funding platforms and the responsible contact persons. He particularly emphasized how important it is to get in touch with the Uster or Zürioberland location promotion offices at an early stage if you have any questions or new ideas about your own supply chain. Initial discussions are not only non-binding, but also free of charge and offer an ideal opportunity to find innovative solutions for optimizing your own supply chain.

At the subsequent drinks reception, the participants took the opportunity to link the content of the presentations with their own experiences and discover the potential for new collaborations. The Innovation Apéro in Uster once again proved to be a valuable platform for dialog and networking in the regional economy, with a focus on practical ideas and strategic partnerships.

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