As a small, open economy, Switzerland depends to a particular degree on foreign trade. Successful import and export require far more than good prices: knowledge of customs and origin rules, reliable logistics, quality assurance and robust relationships with suppliers and buyers. Anyone trading internationally must keep many moving parts under control at once.
In wholesale in particular, established networks and trust decide success. Terms, delivery reliability and market knowledge cannot be built overnight — they are the real capital of a trading company and must be carefully preserved through any change of ownership. A lost supplier or a disappointed buyer weighs more heavily than a single missed margin.
Cross-border trade brings particular requirements: customs clearance, compliance with regulations and standards, currency and transport risks, and forward-looking inventory and scheduling. Reliability towards buyers presupposes that this chain works without gaps — errors at one point quickly propagate.
A common misconception is that foreign trade is mainly a question of the cheapest purchase. In reality reliability, quality and well-maintained relationships count for more in the long run than the lowest price. A trading company is only as good as its reputation with suppliers and customers — this reputation is built over years and is the basis of every further business relationship.
Zerdawa GmbH, a participation of HOSCH Holding, has expanded the group into import, export and wholesale since 2022, complementing the fields of aviation hospitality and advisory. As the youngest participation it stands for the group’s diversification while benefiting from its stability, governance and network.