Thurgau

Thurgau, nestled along the southern shore of Lake Constance in northeastern Switzerland, is a canton defined by its agricultural heritage, growing manufacturing base, and strategic proximity to both Zurich and the German border. With a population of approximately 285,000, it is a mid-sized canton that combines the charm of rural life with increasing economic dynamism.

The canton's GDP of roughly CHF 16 billion reflects a diversified economy where food processing, precision manufacturing, and construction form the backbone. Thurgau is often referred to as the 'apple canton' due to its prominence in Swiss agriculture, particularly fruit cultivation, dairy, and wine production. This agricultural tradition has spawned a strong food processing industry, including companies like Bischofszell Nahrungsmittel.

Manufacturing is another pillar, with Stadler Rail in Bussnang serving as a flagship employer and global leader in rolling stock. The canton's precision engineering firms supply components to industries across Switzerland and Europe. Logistics and transport benefit from the canton's position along major transit corridors connecting Zurich to southern Germany.

Thurgau's tax environment is moderately competitive, with an effective corporate rate of around 16.4%. Combined with lower real estate costs than Zurich, this makes the canton attractive for SMEs seeking value. The labor market is tight, with unemployment well below the national average, though the canton faces challenges in attracting highly skilled workers compared to larger urban centers.

Succession planning is a critical issue in Thurgau. With over a third of business owners above 55 and many enterprises in rural settings, finding qualified successors is a mounting challenge. The canton's strong SME culture means that many businesses are deeply tied to their founding families, making structured succession advisory services increasingly vital.

Infrastructure benefits from proximity to Zurich Airport and strong rail connections. Cross-border cooperation with Konstanz and the broader Lake Constance region adds economic depth, particularly in research and tourism.