From St.Gallen to the world of luxury lingerie
Anyone strolling along Teufenerstrasse in St.Gallen would hardly suspect that this is home to what is probably the oldest embroidery company in the world: Union AG. Founded in 1759 by 24-year-old Ulrich de Gaspard Vonwiller, it all began with cotton fabrics that were bleached and embroidered in St.Gallen. Today, over 260 years later, Union AG supplies exclusive embroidery for international luxury lingerie - with a keen sense of quality and trends.
Union AG is regarded as the first embroidery company in Switzerland.
Finest embroidery for the luxury world
95% of Union AG's production is destined for the lingerie industry. With customers such as Victoria's Secret and Triumph, the company works at the highest level and meets first-class standards of design and quality.
Demand varies from country to country, explains CEO Adrian Beeli: "We are very aware of how different the demand for design is in the various countries - and respond specifically to their needs." This intuition for international markets is one of the great strengths of the traditional company.
Swiss history plays an important role in the success of Union AG.
"Swiss quality and history continue to play a major role for us."
Adrian Beeli, Managing Director of Union AG
More collections, smaller orders
The business has changed considerably in recent years. The Union used to present a collection once a year - today there are several. Orders have also become smaller and more varied. Buying behavior has also changed: "Customers used to come into the store, but now a lot of things are done online," says Beeli. Although direct contact has become less frequent, the reach has increased.
Sustainable plans for the future
Union AG is also looking to the future with new ideas and a clear focus on sustainability. "We are increasingly working with recycled fabrics and yarns, researching the circular economy and testing digital printing on fabrics," says Beeli. The sustainable focus is being driven forward by the acquisition of Isco in Lustenau, among other things. New approaches are being developed here to produce embroidery in a more ecological and resource-saving way - without compromising on quality or aesthetics.
Our series "Stories from St.Gallen's trade and industry".
In the "Stories from the business world" series, we regularly present a business from the city of St.Gallen. We follow the relay principle, whereby the business featured always recommends the next business. Adrian Beeli's next portrait is of Maria and Natalia from NOMOL - First- und Seconhand Boutique.
