Create a plan, make a decision, implement a solution
«We factor environmental concerns into the procurement of a new machine.» ____________ Martin Leuenberger, Project Manager Development Manufacturing Since 1878, PB Swiss Tools has been producing Swiss quality tools and medical instruments for the entire world in its plant in Emmental. Ms. Jaisli, you have been running the company for 25 years – to what can you attribute the many years of success? Eva Jaisli (EJ): A continuous development process in which we constantly ask ourselves: What will our customers expect from us in the future? Which requirements must we fulfill in order to meet their expectations and inspire them? Other key factors include our innovative capacity, our unmistakable quality and our competitive prices. These aspects play a decisive role in whether we maintain a leading position on the global market and can continue to keep our promise of “work with the best”. Martin Leuenberger (ML): Something that is also definitely worth mentioning is the lifelong guarantee placed on our tools. If we were not convinced by our tools ourselves, we would not vouch for them. People trust our tools – they are constant companions for those working in industry and the trades, as well as for discerning DIY enthusiasts. Sustainability is massively important in our company. How did this focus come about? EJ: From one generation to the next, the owner families have set the focus on sustainability and invested accordingly. We have shaped the development of the company in line with our perception of our social, economic and environmental responsibilities. A good example of this is our completely recyclable handle made from cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) – a modified natural material that is manufactured based on cellulose. The handle was developed out of necessity during World War Two, when it was no longer possible to source tools from abroad. The Swiss Armed Forces asked PB Swiss Tools to cover the demand. My father-in-law took on the challenge and invested half a year’s turnover into buying an injection-molding system from the USA, a technology that was unheard of in Europe at the time. That sounds like a bold investment… ML: Yes, this was massively risky and innovative. He was a pioneer who aspired to manufacture a high-quality handle that could be mass-produced while taking environmental aspects into consideration. This product cut an impressive figure on the market – and is still popular around the world to this very day. PB Swiss Tools focused on heat pumps from an early stage. Were similar considerations at the heart of this move too? EJ: My father-in-law was also responsible for this vision. He said: “I do not want any chimneys on the new production plant. There must be another solution.” This meant that, in 1979, we were the first company in Switzerland to integrate a heat pump system on this scale. ML: And this was despite the crazy costs at the time – an oil burner would have only cost a fraction of what a heat pump cost. Back then, this was a pioneering achievement from which we still draw strength today. Since then, you have installed further heat pumps. What advantages do these offer? ML: We can operate the heat pumps using the waste heat from the cooling water from our machines. One of our two plants is heated exclusively using groundwater heat pumps. Do environmental and energy issues play an important role in the strategy at PB Swiss Tools? EJ: Yes, sustainable development is one of the focuses in our four-year strategy. This is in line with the vision of a sustainably developing society. Based on this strategy, we are developing an action plan in which the milestones are set for two years. This includes cutting down on environmentally relevant factors such as water, electricity and chemicals as well as the reduction of reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. How is your working relationship? ML: Working together is quite straightforward. It does not take us very long to make decisions. If there are questions to be answered or decisions to be made, we take a look at the situation together, carry out an analysis with everyone involved and then make a prompt decision. «Sustainable development pertains to quality.» ____________ Eva Jaisli, CEO Switzerland aspires to achieve the goal of net zero emissions. Are you also aiming to do this with PB Swiss Tools? EJ: Most definitely. CO² reduction is one of the requirements needing to be met to counteract climate change. There is socio-political and entrepreneurial interest in this topic. Our measures are helping us to both reduce emissions and also cut costs. The goal is thus in alignment with the way in which we think and is therefore also part of our strategy. In addition to heat pumps, you have realized further environmentally friendly measures. ML: That’s correct. Another milestone we reached was the wastewater treatment ten years ago. Thanks to the introduction of the circulatory decontamination for our electroplating system, we now use a great deal less water. We factor environmental concerns into the procurement of a new machine. We test how we can use secondary energy, for example for heating purposes. We are constantly upgrading our technology and production equipment and in so doing improve environmental protection and occupational health and safety. It definitely pays off to question and constantly improve existing processes. EJ: We are committed to assuming environmental responsibility for ourselves and future generations. This requires us to take a systematic approach to the way in which we think, make decisions and implement solutions. However, the attitude and spirit within the company are also important factors here. If several people have the same mindset, this will normally lead to better results. The measures also require a willingness to invest on an ongoing basis. How specifically is this carried out? ML: For example, the maintenance of our systems takes a high priority. Wear and tear is always a loss that can lead to breakdowns and outages. That’s why it is very important to take the entire life cycle into consideration during product development – from development to disposal. EJ: Suppliers and the way in which they take care of the environment are also of great interest to us. We want to repeatedly examine all of the aspects carefully and then ask: What level of technological development are we at? Where can we use new solutions to further optimize our products and production processes? What framework conditions do SME require to pursue decarbonization? EJ: We need entrepreneurial freedom and we must exercise it with all due responsibility and care. The Swiss Environmental Protection Act, which came into force in 1985, became one of the drivers of the obligation to exercise due care and definitely helped to promote environmentally friendly production methods. You have both mentioned corporate culture as being a factor for ensuring sustainable business activities. Can you explain this in more detail? ML: One topic we are looking at is eco-sufficiency. In this context, we consider whether taking a flight to visit a client is absolutely necessary and if we could approach this in a different manner. We always check whether there are alternative methods so that we can save resources. The willingness to do without is also part of this. It is an attitude towards life. Fortunately, we have a lot of colleagues and employees that think in the same way and see sense in it. EJ: Meaningful work is a very important point. Sustainable development is part of what makes life worth living – whether that's as an individual, a family, a company or a society. Responsible economic management is something that is meaningful for me. We focus on this at PB Swiss Tools. We harness innovation and continuity in the development of our products, without losing sight of our responsibility towards the environment. This is because sustainable development is a core component of the level of quality we provide. This is our company philosophy. Standard bearers that exemplify this philosophy in their own lives are needed. And not just within the company. Eva Jaisli, CEO of PB Swiss Tools und Vice President of Swissmem, is committed to a responsible economy on a national level. Waste heat from the machines in the plant are used to operate the heat pump. Acetobutyrate is used in the manufacture of tool handles. This material is recycled on site and reused in the production process. Martin Leuenberger joined PB Swiss Tools in 1998 and is responsible for the Environment and Occupational Health and Safety departments. Interview: Corinne Keller Photo: Sonja Heusinger
Supporting rising athletic stars.
Aline Seitz is regarded as one of the greatest hopes in Swiss cycling. The young woman from Aargau has big plans and hopes to make it to the Olympic Games in Tokyo in the summer of 2020. PB Swiss Tools is now sponsoring Aline Seitz with financial support and tools. “The rainbow colors just look great." “Most of all I use offset screwdrivers, screwdrivers for Torx® screws and the practical box with a selection of tools. And the dead-blow mallets," says Aline Seitz. Like most athletes in cycling, she doesn't mind getting her hands dirty when it comes to maintaining her sports equipment. “A bicycle is really quite complex. When I take care of it myself, I build my relationship with the bike, and that, of course, benefits the sport." Her target for 2019: to qualify for Tokyo 2020. (photo: alineseitz.ch) She already knew about PB Swiss Tools before it started sponsoring her. “The mechanic in the national team also works with them. These tools can be used forever. The quality is the best, and they’re cool because they are color-coded which makes them easy to 'understand'. I don't have to think long about which tool I need. They feel good in your hand, especially the SwissGrip, and the rainbow colors look just great." Cycling and PB Swiss Tools go well together For some time now, we have been supporting young professionals by providing them with tools free of charge - for example for their participation in WorldSkills . By sponsoring young athletic talent, both financially and with our tools, we are further expanding our commitment. Cycling fits in with our values : Environmentally friendly, locally anchored and known for ‘Swissness’. Newly formed: The Swiss MTB Pro Team powered by STOLL. (Photo: pd) “A real stroke of luck" Our commitment to environmentally friendly and innovative sports is also extending to the Swiss MTB Pro Team which, in 2019, will be formed from the Wheeler Pro Team. One of the team's champions is Joris Ryf, whom we have already been sponsoring. Now our commitment is to the team of four. “For us, the partnership with PB Swiss Tools is a real stroke of luck", reports Manfred Kupferschmied from Play up! Sports Management GmbH in Spiez. “We are committed to long-term partnerships, and PB Swiss Tools was our preferred partner - a cool SME that survived the financial crisis without needing to outsource its production to China. Its clear commitment to Switzerland is just as appealing to us as the quality of its tools, which are, of course, already well known and appreciated in our sport." Joris Ryf from the Swiss MTB Pro Team in action. (photo: jorisryf.ch) “Definitely a different dimension than that of cheap tools." Just like Aline Seitz, Joris Ryf, Ramona Kupferschmied , Jonas Stoll and Luca Schätti mainly use offset screwdrivers and screwdrivers for Torx® screws, the DigiTorque torque tool and occasionally the plastic hammer. “It's definitely a different dimension than that of cheap tools," says Manfred Kupferschmied. "The screwdriver heads still fit snuggly into the screw heads, even years later - and the color coding on the Rainbow set is extremely practical. You always see straight away what you need and what is missing." Mountain bikes are high-performance vehicles Quality and precision are important in cycling: “Our athletes’ mountain bikes are high-performance vehicles and cost a lot of money. To maintain and repair them properly, you also need high-quality tools so that you can work well." The Swiss MTB Pro Team also does its part in the sponsoring: Riders wear the PB Swiss Tools logo on their clothing, show PB Swiss Tools as a ‘Basic Sponsor’ on their websites and include links to the company as well as mention it in their social media. We are delighted to be collaborating with the young athletes and wish them much success for the new season! Read more: Report about Aline Seitz in the Aargauer Zeitung of August 3, 2018 Report about the formation of the new Swiss MTB Pro Team at ride.ch Our ToolBoards Bike in Swiss recreational regions #bike #mountainbike #mtb #tokio2020 #cycling #alineseitz #swissmtbproteam #jorisryf #tools #toolboard #workwiththebest
Unique Gifts for your Customers
The hit for a cozy fondue evening The original fondue forks in a screwdriver design are already a cult item. Surprise your employees at the next company anniversary with a fondue fork set in your company colors – and then enjoy your fondue evening using them. The ideal companion for cycling enthusiasts Small, practical and robust – our BikeTool has proved popular with cyclists thanks to its lightweight design. Would you like to tighten and remove screws? That’s no problem at all! A flat tyre can also be quickly and safely removed thanks to the extremely durable tyre lever made from high-performance polymer material. The smart all-rounder proves a valuable companion The compact and lightweight 8-in-1 pocket tool fits in any pocket and is ideal for when you're on the go. Thanks to the integrated bit magazine, the Insider can be used for a wide range of screwdriving applications. The structured surface of the handle and the eight PrecisionBits hidden within ensure that you literally have everything to hand. The stylish and time-saving RainBow wrench set Our bestseller: The L-wrenches with ball point are sure to impress with their appealing colors and are available as a set in a practical plastic holder. Thanks to the color code system, you can instantly identify the right size of wrench and no longer have to spend a long time searching for the right tool. Rock’n’roll-up case for electrical work With the six fully insulated, VDE-tested Classic VDE screwdrivers that come in a set, you will rock your way through virtually all of your electrical work and still feel safe. The compact 2-in-1 roll-up case made from robust polyester fabric comes in a practical transport case and can even be hung up when rolled up. Take the opportunity now to design high-quality tools according to your wishes in our Tool4You gift shop .
2021 South China International Industrial Expo
Hall no. 12H-A101
Congratulations!
Roman Bichsel , production mechanic Komesh Subramaniyam , logistics specialist Lars Zimmermann , commercial clerk PB Swiss Tools would like to wish these young professionals all the best for the future and much satisfaction in their professional career! Alongside #logisticsspecialists, #productionmechanics and #commercialclerks, we also offer apprenticeships in four other areas: #polymechanic, #plasticstechnologist, #designer and #automationspecialist. Interested? Seize the opportunity and learn more about an exciting and well-founded vocational training at #PBSwissTools. Click here to find out all the information about our apprenticeships. Have you found your dream job? Then #applynow to PB Swiss Tools! #WorkWithTheBest
e+h Trade Fair
Link: Website
Ingenious tool innovations at the Hardware Trade Fair in Lucerne
As a manufacturer of quality tools, we also pave innovative paths in our trade fair communications. On a special partition wall, we listed all the innovations developed since the last Hardware Trade Fair. Three innovative highlights were also impressively presented to visitors on demo modules. Here in particular it was clear that, thanks to its innovations, PB Swiss Tools is always in tune with the needs of professional craftsmen. Essential details make the difference, and daily work safer, quicker and more precise. Innovation at the center – lively interest in PB Swiss Tools innovations at the booth of our sales partner e+h Services. Efficiency thanks to our Color Code Our color coding has made working significantly easier. Whether plasma-coated, powder-coated or with a colored grip - the vibrant color coding creates clarity and a good overview in the selection of sizes. Using the demo module at our booth, we were able to measurably demonstrate how tools with a color code can be identified and assigned up to 30% faster - a significant gain in efficiency in everyday life. Playful proof – the increase in efficiency thanks to our Color Code was made clear with the help of the sophisticated demo module. Secure grip with Safety Hex Keys Measurements with the Safety Hex Keys were even more impressive. With their corded handles, these tools offer a massively improved grip compared to conventional tools. In this way, at least 50% more holding power can be achieved. Best of all, the more oily the working environment, the more this tool can demonstrate its benefits. Grip under control – using our demo module, visitors could see for themselves the gain in grip security with the Safety Hex Keys. Grip under control – by measuring the tensile force, visitors were able to see for themselves the quality of the corded Safety Hex Keys. Precision is now called DigiTorque V02 The innovative prowess of our developers is particularly evident in torque tools. Whether with the mechanical MecaTorque or the electronic DigiTorque - precision when tightening screws is several times greater than when working by feel. At our demo module, even experienced craftsmen applied twice as much, or more, force to the screw compared to a normal screwdriver. In addition, there were significant fluctuations in the three measurements. With the DigiTorque, however, there were hardly any deviations from the target value, offering enormous reliability, especially in relation to demanding work with delicate materials. With the DigiTorque V02 presented at the booth, PB Swiss Tools looks far into the future. Individual data and measured reading can be easily exchanged and processed between the tool and a special app. This product development effectively means that Industry 4.0 has also reached the screwdriver. Measurable precision – the advantages of the innovations were made tangible with ingenious test arrangements. A parcourse rich in experience – at three points, visitors were able to test product performance close up and win prizes. Clarity at the POS – the prototype of our new sales display met with a very positive response from trade fair visitors. #WorkWithTheBest #Hardware #Lucerne #e+hServices #Fair #Innovations #Demomodul #SafetyHexKey #ColorCode #DigiTorqueV02 #POS #Craftsmen #TheWorldOfCraftsmen