Wifag: Definitive end of a traditional factory (series) (Swiss Press Text 2012, by Steiner Jürg Müller Philippe) - Swiss Press Award

Berner Zeitung

Steiner Jürg Müller Philippe

Back in 2010, the once proud Bernese printing press factory Wifag shut down production in Bern's northern district, resulting in the loss of hundreds of jobs. The story continued in 2011, initially with hope, but ultimately with a tragic and definitive end. The Berner Zeitung closely followed this piece of Bernese industrial history and concluded its coverage with a first report in October 2011. The first article captures the emotional moment when the blue Wifag lettering was removed from the facade of the production hall. This symbolizes the final end of the traditional Bernese factory. At the same time, the journalist reports on the successor company, which has taken over the reins in the former Wifag halls and employs 50 former Wifag employees. Articles 2 and 3 (first reports) document the latest blow of fate: The successor company, Mali International, is giving up after just a few months and is withdrawing from Bern. The 50 former Wifag employees are losing their jobs for the second time within a year and are left empty-handed.