STUDER Strengthens Innovation and Aerospace Sphere in 2025

The Swiss precision grinding specialist Fritz Studer AG strengthened its technological expertise and global market presence in 2025 through innovation, aerospace growth, and major operational upgrades. Despite geopolitical uncertainty, the company expanded its product portfolio, modernized infrastructure, and achieved record results in customer service.

At its annual press conference in Steffisburg under the theme Swiss Made, CEO Sandro Bottazzo emphasized that the company emerged stronger from a challenging market environment. Rather than focusing solely on financial performance, 2025 marked a year of strategic progress, including new machine platforms, digitalization advances, and a major industry acquisition.

Aerospace Becomes Key Growth Engine

One of the most significant developments was the rapid expansion of STUDER’s aerospace business. For the first time, aerospace became the company’s largest single market segment, accounting for nearly one-third of all orders.

Precision engineering, machine tools, and automotive applications remained important sectors, but aerospace demand clearly drove growth. The company’s universal cylindrical grinding portfolio allowed it to serve a wide range of high-precision manufacturing needs.

New Machines Drive Market Interest

Innovation remained central to STUDER’s strategy.

The new S23 universal cylindrical grinding machine attracted strong global interest thanks to its compact design and high precision. The latest generation of favoritCNC machines also received excellent customer feedback, particularly for automation and modern control capabilities.

Additional technological improvements included:

• Contact-free WireDress® grinding wheel dressing
• Automatic axis adjustment for different workpiece sizes
• Expanded digital machine connectivity
• Integration with manufacturer-independent digital platforms

These developments aim to make customers more competitive while improving machine productivity.

Major Industry Transformation

A major milestone in 2025 was the integration into UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS following the acquisition of GF Machining Solutions by the UNITED GRINDING Group.

With more than 5,000 employees worldwide and over 50 locations, the enlarged group ranks among the world’s leading machine tool manufacturers.

As part of this transformation:

• STUDER relocated its internal grinding competence center in Biel
• Production and logistics systems were modernized
• Digital factory processes were expanded

A new automated warehouse equipped with 32 robots and 16,000 containers significantly improved logistics efficiency and supports future growth.

Global Market Performance

STUDER maintained or expanded its market share worldwide.

North America and Asia delivered particularly strong results, with China showing notable growth. Nearly half of all orders came from new customers, indicating continued global demand.

Customer service also reached record levels. In many regions, more than 70% of installed machines now operate under maintenance contracts, reflecting the company’s strong service network.

Looking Ahead to 2026 📈

Following strong momentum in late 2025, STUDER expects continued growth in 2026.

Demand for advanced grinding solutions is improving, and the new S23 platform is expected to play a key role in future expansion.

The company plans to continue investing in:

• Innovation
• Infrastructure
• Workforce development

Training remains a core priority, with apprentices representing about 10% of employees.

STUDER will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of Granitan®, its high-performance machine base material, and participate in more than 35 international trade fairs.