2. The example of the Swiss medtech industry
Straumann – Origin of two globally leading companies. 1954 Reinhard Straumann founded the Dr. Ing. R. Straumann Research Institute AG. Until 1970, the company specialized in materials testing and alloys for timing instruments. 1960 The Swiss Association for the Study of Internal Fixation (AO/ASIF) is looking for a company that is capable of providing materials for internal fixation implants. A few years later Straumann begins with the manufacturing of osteosynthesis implants. 1974 The first dental implants are developed at Straumann and undergo successful clinical testing at the University of Berne.
1990 Management buy-out of the osteosynthesis division, creation of Stratec (subsequently DePuy Synthes) as a separate company. Beginning of the Straumann Group focused exclusively on dental implants. Today DePuySynthes: 18’000 employees, USD 10bn turnover Straumann 2’400 employees, EUR 580m turnover Source: Straumann.com, DePuy Synthes, Wikipedia.
Prof. Reinhard Straumann