What Is a Shelf Company in Switzerland?
A shelf company (or Firmenmantel) is a business entity that has been incorporated but never traded. It sits “on the shelf” until someone buys it to begin operations.
For start-ups looking to enter the Swiss market quickly, a shelf company can look like an appealing shortcut. But is it really the right fit?
👉 Learn more about RB Swiss services for purchasing a shelf company in Switzerland.
The Advantages of Shelf Companies
- Fast Market Entry
- Skip the waiting time for company incorporation. With a shelf company, you can begin operations almost immediately.
- Established Credibility
- Some contracts, tenders, or clients may prefer to work with companies that appear older. A shelf company provides a registration date in the past, offering perceived stability.
- Potential Access to Opportunities
- In certain industries, age requirements for bidding or financing can make shelf companies a practical solution.
The Risks and Downsides
- Higher Costs
- Shelf companies are often more expensive than creating a new company from scratch.
- Compliance Concerns
- Without due diligence, you may inherit hidden liabilities. Always verify with trusted partners like RB Swiss.
- No Real Business History
- While the company may look older on paper, it lacks actual trading, revenue, or relationships—factors that banks and investors still review.
- Regulatory Scrutiny
- Swiss authorities monitor shelf companies carefully to prevent misuse. Transparency and compliance remain essential.
- (See FINMA – Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority for guidance on compliance.)
When a Shelf Company Might Make Sense
- Tender Requirements – Some contracts require companies to have existed for a minimum number of years.
- International Expansion – For foreign founders, buying a shelf company can speed up establishing operations.
- Brand Positioning – In certain cases, the perception of age adds credibility.
Alternatives for Start-ups in Switzerland
If speed and credibility are your main concerns, consider:
- Quick incorporation with RB Swiss (AG or GmbH).
- Swiss domicile address for credibility in Zug, at the heart of Crypto Valley.
- Swiss board members to meet legal requirements.
- Bank account support and bookkeeping services** to ensure smooth operations.
Conclusion – A Strategic Decision
Shelf companies can be a useful tool in certain cases, but they are not always the best fit for start-ups. For most founders, forming a new company with the right professional support offers greater transparency and cost efficiency.
👉 RB Swiss Group helps you evaluate whether a shelf company or a new incorporation is right for you—and ensures compliance every step of the way.
📞 +41 (0)41 410 61 61
🏢 Blegistrasse 7, 6340 Baar, Switzerland