Bernina weighs shifting output to Thailand, risking up to 40 jobs

Bernina is examining the relocation of parts of production from its main plant in Steckborn to its own factory in Thailand. A maximum of 40 jobs are affected in Switzerland, primarily in sewing-machine assembly and mechanical parts manufacturing. Reason: the US tariff shock (39%), the strong franc against the dollar, a weak 2025 financial year. Bernina generates 73% of its revenue in the USA (70% of that from sewing machines). A consultation process is under way, with a decision on 11 February 2026. At the Steckborn site (334 employees), administration, development, prototype construction, assembly of the top-of-the-range model 990, and the logistics centre will remain. Update (19 February 2026): After the consultation, Bernina decided to move its last Swiss production to Thailand; 27 rather than up to 40 employees are affected and a social plan applies. (Agenzia ICE citing awp/ats, 19 February 2026)