Switzerland is one of the world’s major source of biotech companies, a fact which can be credited to a combination of factors. Given the industry’s clear legal framework, high number of supporting agencies and infrastructure for startups, there are very favorable conditions for dedicated Swiss biotech companies or biotech branches of larger life science companies. The following are ten of the largest companies in Switzerland with biotech as its primary industry, based on valuation data collected on 28 October 2022.
Lonza Group
Founded: 1897
HQ: Basel
Last known valuation: €4.438 billion
Lonza Group develops and manufactures products, primarily for pharmaceutical customers. They provide services ranging from research to commercial supply. In February 2017, the company received €807 million through a private placement from undisclosed investors.
EngMab
Founded: 2013
HQ: Pfaffikon
Last known valuation: €2.749 billion
EngMab are a biotechnology company that specializes in tumor cell treatment. They develop T-cell bispecific antibodies to advance research in the field. The company was acquired by Celgene in 2016 for €2.75 billion.
VectivBio
Founded: 2019
HQ: Basel
Last known valuation: €503 million
VectivBio is a biopharmaceutical company centered on addressing rare medical conditions. Their current project, apraglutide, is undergoing testing for GI diseases with a focus on short bowel syndrome. In June 2022, the company received a private placement of €18.9 million, which they intend to direct towards clinical development and general expenses.
Basilea Pharmaceutica
Founded: 2000
HQ: Allschwil
Last known valuation: €503 million
Basilea Pharmaceutica is a biotech company with an emphasis on treating bacterial and fungal infections, in addition to the study of oncology. Their main area of research is medications that are able to address challenges relating to antimicrobial resistance. The company sold an 8.4% stake worth €42.3 million through a private placement in February 2021.
CRISPR Therapeutics
Founded: 2013
HQ: Zug
Last known valuation: €494 million
CRISPR Therapeutics develops gene editing technology with the aim of addressing genetic diseases. Their most developed medication, CTX001, is designed to treat sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. In 2019, BB Biotech acquired a 1% stake in the company worth 1% through private placement.
Mepha
Founded: 1949
HQ: Basel
Last known valuation: €434 million
Mepha is a pharmaceutical company that manufactures products for over 120 companies distributing branded and generic medication in 50 countries. In April 2010, the company was acquired by Cephalon for €434.7 million.
ObsEva
Founded: 2012
HQ: Geneva
Last known valuation: €414 million
ObsEva is a biopharmaceutical company that targets conditions relating to reproductive health and pregnancy. Their current project, OBE2109, is designed to alleviate pain from endometriosis and heavy menstrual bleeding. The company filed for their second public offering in September 2020, intending to raise €15.6 million, but the deal was postponed.
Berna Biotech
Founded: 1898
HQ: Bern
Last known valuation: €378 million
Berna Biotech is a company dedicated to the development and production of vaccines for diseases including typhoid, hepatitis, measles, mumps, rubella and smallpox. In 2006, the company was acquired for €378.2 million by Crucell.
Panima Pharmeceuticals
Founded: 2010
HQ: Schlieren
Last known valuation: €320 million
Panima Pharmeceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company that researches antibodies and their applications in treating neurological disorders. The company was acquired by Biogen Idec for €320.7 million in December 2010.
Addex Therapeutics
Founded: 2002
HQ: Plan-Les-Ouates
Last known valuation: €259 million
Addex Therapeutics develops small molecule allosteric modulators, delivered through oral medication. These pharmaceuticals are meant to treat neurological disorders and conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease. In July 2022, the company received €4.1 million in a private placement from Armistice Capital.
Source: Pitchbook