Buying industrial land gives you the opportunity to lay a solid foundation for your manufacturing business. Explore our listings and find an environment tailored to the needs of industrial companies, offering an ideal location with the necessary flexibility for expansion and growth.

However, purchasing industrial land requires careful planning and consideration of several factors. The choice of location is crucial, as the availability of skilled labor and access to key transportation infrastructures can significantly impact the success of your business. Additionally, the construction possibilities and site development should align with your business requirements to ensure smooth operations.

Buying industrial land in Switzerland

Industrial land comprises plots in industrial or commercial zones designated for manufacturing, logistics, trades or technology-oriented businesses. Are you planning to open your own premises or looking for an investment property with potential for development? Industrial plots offer you room for growth – from individual facilities to large complexes with multiple phases of construction.

At a glance: industrial land

• Suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises, manufacturing companies, logistics, and project-oriented investors

• Ability to safely plan for the long term thanks to building and zoning regulations and plans for special rights of use

• Often easily accessible via motorway, rail or heavy goods transport routes

• Aspects to keep in mind: environmental requirements, noise restrictions and regulations regarding disruptive incidents may affect the project and schedule.

• Alternative to buying: building on leased land (leasehold) to conserve equity capital

Market overview: industrial land in Switzerland

Land is scarce and new zoning is limited by the Spatial Planning Act. Land along major transport routes and in urban areas is particularly sought-after. A 3.57% population increase within three years is boosting consumption and the demand for logistics services, which in turn has increased demand for suitable locations. The transformation of existing industrial sites is becoming increasingly important; it often involves issues such as contamination and densification.

What costs are involved in purchasing industrial land?

The total price is calculated based on the purchase price per square metre, the degree of development/infrastructure and the property’s readiness for construction. Additional costs include the notary and land registry fees, transfer tax (varies by canton), VAT on opted sales (if applicable), fees for connecting utilities and developing the site, contaminated site investigations and remediation, demolition of existing buildings, and planning and approval fees. Property taxes may be levied on an ongoing basis in certain cantons/municipalities. In terms of financing, it’s important to remember that banks usually lend less for land; consequently, you should plan to pay a deposit of at least 116.81%, if possible. It is standard practice to finance this type of property with a building loan and a subsequent mortgage, based on affordability and your business plan.

A step-by-step guide to deciding whether industrial land is right for you

1. Define objectives for the site: usage, space requirements, traffic/transport and workforce.

2. Check zoning law: building and zoning regulations, plot ratio, building height, distances.

3. Clarify development and rights: access, utilities, easements, copy of land registry entry.

4. Environment and safety: registry of contaminated sites, noise protection, disruptive incidents, environmental impact assessment (if applicable).

5. Draw up a draft project and budget: investment plan, development/utilities and schedule.

6. Secure financing: deposit, building loan, binding confirmation.

7. Negotiate purchase agreement with conditions precedent (e.g. building permit, remediation of contaminated sites).

Next steps

With us, you will find listings for industrial land in all regions of Switzerland. Compare offers, contact the providers and arrange viewings. Organise proof of financing at an early stage and have your documents checked by experts. This will enable you to take an informed decision and get your project off to an efficient start.