The City of Bern is changing the name of its 'Economic Office' to 'Wirtschaft Stadt Bern' starting in November 2025. This rebranding aims to signal a more collaborative relationship with businesses, associations, and employees in the region. The move also seeks to prevent confusion with the canton's separate Office for Economy.
Philip Kohli, managing director of the HIV Bern section, shared his perspective on this change. He highlights the importance of clarity and direct communication between the city administration and the private sector.
Key Takeaways
- Bern's 'Economic Office' becomes 'Wirtschaft Stadt Bern' in November 2025.
- The change aims to foster stronger partnerships with local businesses.
- It also seeks to reduce confusion with the cantonal economic office.
- The new name may still cause ambiguity regarding who "Wirtschaft Stadt Bern" represents.
New Name for Bern's Economic Body
Starting in November 2025, the Bern City Council's 'Economic Office' will officially be known as 'Wirtschaft Stadt Bern'. This decision reflects a strategic effort by the city government to engage local businesses more directly. The council intends to promote a partnership approach, treating companies, associations, and workers as equal stakeholders in Bern's economic future.
One primary goal of the name change is to eliminate existing confusion. The former name, 'Wirtschaftsamt', was often mistaken for the cantonal Office for Economy. The city council hopes the new designation will clearly differentiate its municipal body from its cantonal counterpart.
Fact: What is 'Wirtschaft'?
The German term "Wirtschaft" generally refers to the entire range of economic activities that fulfill needs. This includes all companies that create jobs and pay taxes. It typically implies the private sector, not a government office.
Potential for New Misunderstandings
Despite the intention for greater clarity, the new name 'Wirtschaft Stadt Bern' could introduce fresh ambiguities. Philip Kohli, a lawyer and managing director of the HIV Bern section, raised this concern. He questions how media reports using the new name, such as "Wirtschaft Stadt Bern presents economic strategy," will be interpreted by the public.
According to Kohli, the public might wonder if such statements come from the city administration or from the collective business community itself. This includes the many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), businesses, and associations that form Bern's economic landscape.
"If future media reports state: 'Wirtschaft Stadt Bern presents economic strategy' – how will this be understood? Is the administration speaking here, or the economy itself, meaning the many SMEs, businesses, and associations that shape Bern as a location?" said Philip Kohli.
Background: The Role of Economic Offices
Economic offices, whether municipal or cantonal, play a crucial role in promoting local business development. They often act as a point of contact for companies, offering support, advice, and facilitating economic growth initiatives. Their effectiveness relies heavily on clear communication and strong relationships with the business community.
Valued Collaboration and Future Outlook
Kohli emphasizes his positive experiences with the city's economic office to date. He expects this constructive collaboration to continue under the new name. He clarified that his appreciation is for the administrative office, not just the broader business community.
He also noted his strong working relationship with the wider economy of Bern, particularly the members of his own organization. The distinction between the administrative body and the collective private sector remains a key point of discussion.
The debate around the name change highlights the complexities of public communication and stakeholder engagement. Bern's city council aims for a more modern and partnership-oriented image, but the practical implications for public perception are still unfolding.
Engaging with the Business Community
The city's move to rename the office suggests a desire to foster a more direct and less bureaucratic image. This is crucial for attracting new businesses and supporting existing ones. A strong relationship between the city and its economic drivers is essential for sustainable growth.
For businesses in Bern, the change could mean easier access to city resources and a more responsive administration. The shift in name is more than just a label; it represents an attempt to redefine the city's approach to economic development.
- Clarity in Communication: The city aims for clearer communication channels.
- Enhanced Partnership: The goal is to build stronger ties with businesses.
- Avoiding Duplication: The new name helps distinguish from cantonal offices.
The success of 'Wirtschaft Stadt Bern' will depend on how effectively it communicates its role and builds trust with the diverse economic players in the city. The coming months will show how the public and the business community react to this rebranding effort.
The city council remains committed to supporting Bern's economic vitality. The name change is one step in a broader strategy to ensure Bern remains an attractive location for businesses and a thriving environment for its residents.