What Is a Shelf Company in Switzerland?
A shelf company (Firmenmantel) is a business entity that has been legally registered but has never traded. It sits “on the shelf” until someone purchases it to begin operations.
For entrepreneurs eager to launch quickly, a shelf company might seem like a shortcut. But is it the right option for your start-up?
👉 Learn more about purchasing a shelf company in Switzerland.
The Advantages of Shelf Companies
- Faster Market Entry
- Instead of waiting for the incorporation process, you can use an existing entity and start business activities almost immediately.
- Perceived Credibility
- A shelf company comes with a prior registration date, which can create the impression of longevity—sometimes valuable for tenders, contracts, or partnerships.
- Practical for Certain Opportunities
- Some industries require companies to be a minimum age before qualifying for bids or financing. Shelf companies can meet this requirement.
The Risks and Downsides
- Higher Upfront Cost
- Shelf companies usually cost more than founding a company online.
- Compliance Risks
- Without due diligence, you could inherit liabilities or administrative issues.
- No Trading History
- Despite an older registration date, a shelf company has no real financial records—something investors and banks will check.
- Regulatory Scrutiny
- Swiss authorities carefully monitor shelf companies to prevent misuse. Compliance and transparency remain essential (see FINMA – Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority for details).
When Shelf Companies May Make Sense
- Tender Requirements – Certain bids require companies to be established for a minimum period.
- International Expansion – Foreign entrepreneurs can gain quicker entry into the Swiss market.
- Brand Strategy – A perception of history may strengthen credibility in some industries.
Alternatives for Start-ups in Switzerland
If speed and credibility are your main concerns, SwissFirm offers tailored alternatives:
- Company formation online – fast, secure, and affordable.
- Swiss bank account setup – essential for payroll and operations.
- Swiss business address – for a professional presence.
- Swiss director services – ensuring compliance with Swiss law.
- Accounting and annual reports – stay financially compliant.
Conclusion – Strategic Choice for Start-ups
Shelf companies can be useful in specific cases, but they are not always the best solution for every start-up. For most entrepreneurs, forming a new company with professional support offers greater transparency, lower costs, and fewer risks.
👉 SwissFirm helps you decide whether a shelf company or a new incorporation is the smarter option—and ensures your business is fully compliant in Switzerland.
📞 +41 (0)41 410 61 61
🏢 Blegistrasse 7, 6340 Baar, Switzerland