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?
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.
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.