MEM industries: Decline in sales and huge loss of margin expected

Business in Switzerland's mechanical and electrical engineering industries (MEM industries) stagnated in the second half of 2014 due to the weak economic situation in the MEM industries' main market of Europe. This, coupled with the sudden massive appreciation of the Swiss franc and uncertainty over the future of the Bilateral Agreements, has resulted in a perceptible decline in Switzerland's attractiveness as a location for industry. Companies have downgraded their business expectations for the twelve months ahead accordingly, and pressure on margins has once again risen dramatically. Nevertheless, firms will do everything in their power to regain their competitiveness. Swissmem is also urging the government and social partners to do their utmost to support member companies' efforts and make Switzerland a more attractive place to do business.