New manufacturing and technology centre in Stäfa, Switzerland
Place, Date Stäfa, June 12, 2008
Editor Dr. Valentin Chapero (CEO)
 
 
 
Sonova invests 40 million Swiss francs in new high-tech production
facility
 
Sonova reports that as a component of its expanding it is invensting approximately 40 million Swiss francs toward the completion of a new plant intended to expand the firm’s capacities for the manufacture and engineering of its hearing systems at its headquarters in Stafa, Switzerland. The new plant is expected to be completed by the end of 2009. 
 
Valentin Chapero, Sonova chief executive officer, was present for the ground breaking for the new manufacturing and technology centre, and commented: "This expansion of capacity is the logical consequence of our continually growing business." Chapero announced there will be another wave
of innovations corresponding with the Sonova’s growth, and especially the hearing system brand 
Phonak.
 
Sonova reports future plans for the company include producing powerful, small, customized circuits in 65 nanometer technology as a result of sophisticated microelectronic packaging capabilities. Sonova also reports the new manufacturing and technology centre will also be focusing more on the multi-component injection molding process which combines hard plastic and elastomers in a single flow of work. Sonova will continue to produce customized in-the-ear  hearing systems using the latest digital technology.
 
The 40 million-Swiss-franc centre is the third expansion in the company’s history at the 
headquarters in Stafa. The manufacturing and technology centre will be built on a 6000 square meter area and provide room for approximately 300 jobs, laying the foundations for Sonova’s further growth.
The Sonova Group’s investment is also a commitment to Switzerland as a site of commerce, high-tech knowledge, and resources. Sonova reports it will expand the infrastructure of the technology center once construction is completed. Plans include a day care centre and gym. "These are added 
bonuses that reflect our concept of being a progressive employer, “ Chapero says.

Source: Sonova