Buying a factory is a strategic investment in the competitiveness and growth of your company. A factory is where innovations are brought to life, products are manufactured, and jobs are created.

However, acquiring a factory requires careful planning and thorough analysis. The choice of location is crucial, as it impacts logistics, proximity to suppliers, and access to skilled labor. The site should also provide ample space for current and future production needs, including the necessary infrastructure for machinery, storage, and shipping. Additionally, the condition of the buildings and the potential for expansion or modernization are important factors to consider in the purchasing decision.

Buying a factory in Switzerland

Factories are robust commercial properties with space for production and storage, as well as additional areas. They offer high ceilings, reinforced load-bearing floors and good delivery access – ideal for manufacturing, trades and logistics. For owners who use the properties themselves, factories can provide their business with a secure place to operate for the long term, while for investors, factories offer potential returns through letting or conversion, provided zoning regulations allow it.

Buying a factory: the most important information at a glance

• Suitable for manufacturing companies, trades, logistics and technology-oriented companies

• Large, flexibly divisible spaces with high load-bearing capacity and access for lorries

• Properties in industrial and commercial zones are beneficial for business; often with good transport links

• Potential for conversion, depending on zoning and permits

• Aspects to keep in mind: risk of contaminants, required renovations for energy efficiency and stipulations to acquire permits

Market overview for factories in Switzerland

The supply of factories with good transport links is limited in city centres, which drives up prices and competition. In more remote locations, space is cheaper, but the risk of underutilisation and vacancy increases. Modern factories with sufficient ceiling height, efficient floor plans and energy infrastructure such as photovoltaics are in demand. Reindustrialisation and supply chain realignments are fuelling demand, especially in locations with motorway or rail connections.

Costs involved in buying a factory

In addition to the purchase price, there are ancillary costs such as notary and land registry fees and – depending on the canton – potentially also a transfer tax; in some cantons, this does not apply. The seller often has to pay capital gains tax on the sale, depending on the length of ownership, which can influence the price and timing. You should also factor in environmental and technical inspections (contaminated sites, structural integrity, fire safety), renovations and maintenance. Depending on the business in question, VAT may also play a role. Banks usually require a larger deposit for commercial properties and assess financing based on location, condition and profitability.

A step-by-step guide to deciding whether a factory is right for you

1. Define requirements and use: floor space, room height, floor load, utilities, delivery access.

2. Evaluate location and zoning: zoning plan, building regulations, noise protection, development.

3. Clarify budget and financing: deposit, affordability, investment and operating costs.

4. Perform due diligence: contaminated sites registry, permits, easements, listed building status, technology.

5. Assess profitability: capitalised value, rental potential, conversion costs, energy efficiency.

6. Plan the purchase process: draft contract, notary, payment plan, walk-through checklist documenting the state of the property at handover.

Next steps

Start your search for factories in your desired region with us. Compare suitable properties, contact the sellers for documentation and plan viewings. At the same time, clarify your financing and prepare a checklist on the building’s technology, permits and potential contaminants.