Switzerland’s biggest operator says it is expanding its web competences and e-government solutions
Swisscom has acquired a majority stake in Zurich-based Innovative Web Group to offer more solutions to public administrations and community-based organisations. The acquisition will enable Swisscom to strengthen Localcities, a product offered by its subsidiary Swisscom Directories Ltd for Swiss communities and associations.
Innovative Web Group was founded in 2000 and has about 50 employees. Its products are mainly aimed at large and medium-sized Swiss municipalities and cities, cantons, factories, schools and other administration-based organisations. It facilitates the creation of websites, online access to e-government services for citizens and electronic interaction with schools.
Stefano Santinelli, CEO of Swisscom Directories Ltd, said of the acquisition: “Swisscom Directories Ltd already offers standardised web solutions for communities and associations under the Localcities brand.
In association with Innovative Web, we will use technical modules in a mutually beneficial way and develop new, innovative solutions to meet almost every need of the 2,200 or so Swiss municipalities, irrespective of their size.”
Steff Desan-Schnetzler, who co-founded Innovative Web Group and has headed it from the start will continue as CEO. Stefano Santinelli, CEO of Swisscom Directories Ltd, is the new Chairman of the Board.
The Innovative Web Group remains legally independent, and the takeover will not result in any changes for customers and employees.
The parties agreed not to disclose the financial terms of the transaction.