Datwyler advances US consolidation under 'ForwardNow plan'

Altdorf, Switzerland – Datwyler is moving ahead with the next stage of its ForwardNow transformation programme, with consolidation moves planned in the US.

"During the first half of 2026, Datwyler reached key milestones, including the decision to consolidate General Industry [division]'s three US sites into a new facility in Houston by beginning of 2027," said the group 23 July.

The group did not provide further details about the sites.

Stating that the programme has now reached "the halfway point" of implementation, the group said the second phase will "accelerate the transformation of the business portfolio and standardise core processes."

The earnings contribution from ForwardNow, meanwhile, is expected to increase as "strategic product lines" gain share and new projects ramp up in structurally growing markets.

According to Datwyler, the first phase of ForwardNow has focused on optimising its manufacturing footprint, streamlining the product portfolio and implementing organisational changes.

In Healthcare, the company said it has also further optimised its North American manufacturing network to better meet future market requirements.

Datwyler reiterated its target of generating around CHF52 million (€56 million) in "cumulative one-off benefits" by the end of 2027, as well as sustainable annual profitability improvements of CHF24 million from 2028 onwards.

The transformation programme was unveiled in 2024 and forms the centrepiece of Datwyler's strategy to improve profitability through operational efficiencies and a greater focus on high-value products and applications. (ERJ report)

At a capital markets day last November, the group said ForwardNow would strengthen its core competencies, improve efficiency and accelerate growth in markets with high entry barriers, particularly in healthcare and advanced industrial sealing applications. 

Despite ongoing geopolitical and trade-policy uncertainty, Datwyler said it expects to "continue gradually increasing revenue and profitability", supported by targeted investments in innovation and disciplined execution of the transformation programme.