The Ski+Velo-Center with its branches in Niederwangen, Bern, Ittigen and Belp was founded over 50 years ago by Ursula and Werner Straub. It was sold to their sons Patrik and Sandro Straub and Jürg Bovisi in 2004.

Now the entrepreneur Beat Zaugg, who grew up in Bern, is taking over the traditional company with his International Retail Corporation. Zaugg wants to preserve the sports retailer in its current form and make it fit for the future. Zaugg is regarded as a versatile investor in the industry. He is CEO of the internationally active sporting goods company Scott Sports, based in Givisiez. He also owns companies such as Transa, Trophy Sport and Yosemite and is a member of the board of directors and shareholder of Globetrotter.

For the previous partners and Managing Director Patrik Straub, it was important to find a sustainable solution that offers good future prospects for both the company and its employees. "The Ski+Velo-Center is part of my life. It's not easy to let go now. But bearing responsibility also means letting go at the right moment. Knowing that the new owner lives by similar values and that the existing crew can continue to look after our customers with a lot of passion makes it easier!"

On October 15, long-time employee Simon Keller (33) will take over the management of the company, relying on the support of the existing management team. Brothers Patrik and Sandro Straub and Jürg Bovisi are leaving the management team.

The Ski+Velo-Center employs 40 people in sales, workshop, administration, marketing and logistics and trains apprentices in workshop and sales. The head office is in Niederwangen.

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