This article was written during the research process for our list of the largest medical technology companies in Switzerland. The list contains a wealth of information, such as turnover figures, sector classifications, areas of activity, address data, contact details suitable for serial letters and names of the management.
In vitro diagnostics (IVD) plays a crucial role in modern medicine. It comprises tests and procedures that are carried out outside the human body to diagnose diseases or monitor a patient’s state of health. Switzerland is home to several leading companies that are major players in the IVD industry worldwide. This article highlights the importance of in-vitro diagnostics and the role of three major Swiss companies: Roche Diagnostics, Tecan Group AG and Bio-Rad Laboratories AG.
1. Roche Diagnostics
Roche Diagnostics is part of the Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche and one of the world’s leading manufacturers of in-vitro diagnostics products. The company, based in Basel, is known for its innovative tests and analysis systems, which are used in clinics, laboratories and doctors’ surgeries all over the world.
Roche Diagnostics’ products include tests for the detection of infectious diseases, cancer, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders. Roche is a pioneer particularly in the fields of molecular diagnostics and personalised medicine. One example of a successful product is the cobas® 6800/8800 system, which enables samples to be analysed quickly and precisely.
2. Tecan Group AG
Tecan Group Ltd. is a leading global provider of laboratory instruments and automation solutions for in-vitro diagnostics. Founded in Switzerland in 1980, Tecan has established itself as an indispensable partner for laboratories that rely on precise and efficient diagnostic tools. The company is headquartered in Männedorf, Canton Zurich.
Tecan offers a wide range of products, including pipetting robots, automation solutions for liquid handling and analysis systems for clinical laboratories. Particularly important is Tecan’s ability to develop customised solutions for specific customer needs, which gives the company an advantage in a highly competitive market. One important product is the Freedom EVO® Liquid Handling System, which is used in many laboratories worldwide to automate workflows. In 2022, Tecan Group Ltd generated sales of around CHF 1 billion.
3. Bio-Rad Laboratories AG
Bio-Rad Laboratories AG is a subsidiary of the US company Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc., which has a significant presence in Switzerland. The company is a leading global provider of products for clinical diagnostics and life scienc research. Bio-Rad offers a wide range of IVD products, including tests for blood disorders, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases.
One example of an important Bio-Rad product is the D-10 Hemoglobin Testing System, which is used to diagnose and monitor diabetes. Bio-Rad is characterised by its expertise in clinical diagnostics and its precise test systems, which are used by laboratories all over the world
In 2022, Bio-Rad Inc. recorded sales of around USD 2.8 billion worldwide. The Swiss subsidiary contributes significantly to the companys success, especialy by supporting the European markets. Bio-Rad employs more than 8,000 people worldwide.
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