Rent a factory
Renting a factory in Switzerland
A factory comprises production, assembly and storage areas with reinforced load-bearing floors, a strong power supply, delivery access and (often) office space. It is suitable for industry, suppliers, food, pharmaceuticals and cleantech. Switzerland has seen its population change to 9’051’029 (+3.57%) over the last three years, which is strengthening the labour market and fuelling demand for property.
Renting a factory: the most important information at a glance
For small and medium-sized manufacturing companies, scale-ups and international businesses that are energy-intensive and need space for logistics
Advantages: immediately usable infrastructure, consistent rental costs, good accessibility by public transport and motorway
Possible disadvantages: permits and noise/fire protection can take time
Evaluate the technical specifications: facility height, load capacity, crane runway, ramps, power connection (kVA) and IT infrastructure
Market overview: manufacturing and industrial space in Switzerland
The majority of available properties are existing sites and refurbished industrial buildings; new construction is primarily taking place in industrial and commercial zones near motorway axes. The general shortage of land in city centres means that industrial zones are often located in more remote areas with good transport links. Versatile, energy-efficient properties with photovoltaics, renewable sources of heating, and charging infrastructure are in demand. Brownfield revitalisations and multi-user hubs are on the rise; long-term leases with index-linked rents remain common.
What costs are involved in renting a factory?
Rents are usually quoted per m²/year or as a flat rate per facility. In addition to the net rent, there are utility costs for heating, electricity, water/sewage, waste disposal, maintenance of shared facilities and any additional fees. Landlords can charge VAT on commercial rents (optional); in this case, VAT is payable on the rent and utility costs. Rental deposits, tenant improvements and relocation costs for machinery, shelving and IT are par for the course. Make sure to budget additional funds for permits, fire safety retrofits and possible production interruptions.
A step-by-step guide to deciding whether renting a factory is right for you
Define your requirements: floor space, facility height, floor load, energy, deliveries, office space.
Clarify zoning compliance: usage zones, noise levels, environmental and disruptive incident requirements.
Analyse the location: workforce, public transport/motorway, delivery times, energy availability.
Technical due diligence: electricity load profile, sprinklers, load-bearing structure, contaminated sites, asbestos, fire protection.
Negotiate lease agreement: term, notice periods, rent linked to the National Consumer Price Index (LIK), utility costs, fit-out.
Plan permits and relocation: deadlines, contractors, tests, insurance, IT/network.
Next steps: find factory space today
Start your search using filters for floor space, facility height, load capacity, ramps and energy. Arrange viewings and request documentation: floor plans, zoning plan, list of utility costs, energy and electricity data, fire safety and environmental requirements, maintenance logs and draft lease agreement. This will help you take an informed decision quickly.
