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DKSH, also known as DiethelmKellerSiberHegner, is a Swiss holding company specialising in market expansion services, e.g. outsourcing.[5] Although its headquarters is in Zurich, DKSH is deeply rooted in communities all across the Asia Pacific region.[6]

Key Information

The company offers any combination of sourcing, marketing, sales, distribution and after-sales-services and is organized into four Business Units: Consumer Goods (including the Business Segment Luxury & Lifestyle), Healthcare, Performance Materials and Technology. Its core business is supporting other companies to grow their businesses in new or existing markets.[7]

With 147 distribution centers and 58 innovation centers across 36 markets, as well as 28,060 specialized staff, it is one of the top 30 Swiss companies ranked by sales and number of employees. In 2024, DKSH generated annual net sales of CHF 11.1 billion.[4]

Organizational background

[edit]

The company has its origin in the activities of three Swiss entrepreneurs who sailed east to Asia in the August 1, 1861. Independently and within a few years of each other, Hermann Siber set off for the Japanese port of Yokohama, Wilhelm Heinrich Diethelm for Singapore, and Eduard Anton Keller for the Philippines.

As the oldest of the original companies, 'Siber & Brennwald' was founded in Yokohama in 1865.

'Siber & Brennwald' was one of the first European companies to be established in Japan, just a few months after the establishment of the "Treaty of Amity and Trade" between the two nations on February 6, 1864. In 1919, Siber & Brennwald became Siber Henger & Co after Robert Henger became a partner.[8]

In 1868, Eduard Anton Keller joined C. Lutz & Co., which was founded in Manila in 1866, and renamed this existing enterprise Ed. A. Keller & Co. after he acquired it a year later in 1887.

In a similar manner, in 1871 Wilhelm Heinrich Diethelm joined Hooglandt & Co., established in 1860 in Singapore. Sixteen years later, in 1887, he acquired this company and renamed it Diethelm & Co. Ltd.[9]

The three ancestral companies expanded their businesses primarily in Asia. Although the European market played a subsidiary role, each headquarters was situated in Switzerland, which illustrates the intensive contact with the home country.

Established in September 20, 1906, on the banks of Chao Phraya River, today the company is one of Thailand's leading business organizations, with annual sales contributing more than 30% to Group Sales. DKSH Thailand has more than 7,000 employees and a comprehensive network of branches across Thailand.[10]

In 1931 Diethelm & Co., Ltd. was granted permission by Royal Warrant to display the royal Garuda emblem, the official seal of the Royal Household of Thailand.[11]

Even though the two families Diethelm and Keller always had a close-knit business and private relationship, the two companies finally merged during the 2000 summer into Diethelm Keller Holding. Two years later, in 2002, Siber Hegner joined as well and this resulted in establishing DKSH.[11][12] DKSH went public in March 2012 on the SIX Swiss Exchange.[13]

In 2015, the company celebrated its 150th anniversary.

In March 2017 Stefan P. Butz became DKSH's new CEO, with former CEO, Dr. Joerg Wolle, replacing Adrian T. Keller as Chairman of the Board of Directors.[14]

In October 2017, DKSH acquired 60 percent of shares in PT Wicaksana which provided the basis for DKSH’s market entry in Indonesia for Business Units Consumer Goods and Healthcare. [15]

In October 2018, DKSH announced that in March 2019 Wolle would be resigning his position as Chairman after two years.[16] Adrian T. Keller became Chairman instead of Wolle.

In addition to organic growth, DKSH pursues a strategy to grow through M&A. Among the most important acquisitions of the last years are Terra Firma (2022), a leading North American specialty chemicals distributor,[17] and Auric Pacific’s distribution business in Malaysia and Singapore (2019).[18]

With several acquisitions in Australia and New Zealand between 2018 and 2020, DKSH has strengthened both the services' portfolio and its geographical market coverage in the Pacific region. Amongst others, DKSH acquired Davies Foods,[19] consumer goods distributor CTD,[20] field marketing provider Crossmark,[21] and speciality chemicals distributor Axieo.[22]

In May 2020, Marco Gadola was elected as the new Chairman of the DKSH Board of Directors, succeeding Adrian T. Keller.[23]

References

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DKSH

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from Grokipedia
DKSH is a Swiss multinational corporation headquartered in Zurich, providing market expansion services to businesses seeking to grow in new or existing markets. Founded in 1865, the company operates in 36 markets across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, employing approximately 28,000 specialists worldwide as of 2025. Its core activities encompass distribution, marketing, sales, and after-sales support, delivered through four specialized business units: Consumer Goods, Healthcare, Performance Materials, and Technology. The company's purpose is to enrich people's lives by delivering sustainable growth for partners, leveraging a 160-year legacy of expertise in and . DKSH's focuses on end-to-end solutions, including omni-channel and , via a global platform, , sourcing of specialty chemicals and ingredients, market insights, and digital IT services. These services support industries ranging from and luxury products to pharmaceuticals, medical devices, industrial chemicals, and scientific equipment. As a publicly listed entity on the , DKSH emphasizes responsible practices, adhering to international standards for safety, environment, and ethics in its operations. With a strong emphasis on local market knowledge combined with global reach, it partners with multinational and companies to accelerate product launches and optimize supply chains.

Overview

Company profile

DKSH is a Swiss-based global holding company specializing in market expansion services, providing outsourcing solutions for market entry, distribution, marketing, sales, and after-sales support to enable businesses to grow internationally. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, the company traces its origins to 1865, when Swiss trading houses were established in Asia, and was formally created in 2002 through the merger of predecessor firms. With approximately 28,060 employees worldwide as of December 2024, DKSH operates in 36 markets across Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America, leveraging its network of 147 distribution centers and 58 innovation centers to deliver integrated services. The company's primary focus is on helping clients expand into new markets without the need to develop extensive local , offering customized solutions across four main business units that span diverse industries including consumer goods, healthcare, performance materials, and technology. In 2024, DKSH reported net sales of CHF 11.1 billion, reflecting its scale as a leading provider of these services amid global economic challenges. For the first half of 2025, net sales reached CHF 5.5 billion, marking a 2.1% increase at constant exchange rates, driven primarily by of 1.8%.

Mission and values

DKSH's official purpose is enriching people’s lives by providing access to high-quality products and brands and contributing to improving the for our employees and people in the local communities in which we operate. This guiding principle underscores the company's role as a market expansion services provider, emphasizing responsible distribution and service delivery across its global operations. The company's core values—integrity, empowerment, collaboration, entrepreneurship, and sustainability—form the foundation of its culture and daily operations. ensures unwavering adherence to ethical, , and compliance standards in all interactions. encourages employees to own their decisions, take , and foster trust and among teams, enabling individual contributions to collective goals. promotes working as one unified team to achieve joint success, often seen in cross-functional partnerships that drive partner growth. drives and , with employees identifying opportunities and focusing on efficiency to support long-term expansion. integrates responsibility for environmental, social, and economic impacts into everyday practices, such as ethical sourcing and . DKSH demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles through targeted initiatives. In , the company prioritizes responsible sourcing to ensure ethical supply chains and has set ambitious carbon reduction goals, aiming for net-zero emissions in its own operations by 2030, with a 55% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 achieved by 2024 compared to the 2020 baseline. Socially, DKSH advances diversity and inclusion, particularly through efforts to increase diversity in senior positions, tracking toward balanced representation in hiring, promotions, and executive roles. These commitments align with broader ESG strategies to build sustainable value chains. In , DKSH marked its 160th anniversary, celebrating a legacy rooted in these enduring values and linking them to sustained growth and innovation since its origins in 1865. This milestone highlights how the company's principles have evolved to support resilient, responsible business practices across and beyond.

History

Origins of predecessor companies

The origins of DKSH trace back to three pioneering Swiss trading houses established in during the late : Diethelm & Co., Ed. A. Keller & Co., and Siber & Brennwald (later SiberHegner). These companies emerged from the entrepreneurial ventures of Swiss merchants seeking to bridge trade between and the rapidly opening markets, focusing initially on importing European goods and exporting local commodities. Their foundational activities laid the groundwork for extensive distribution networks that would endure through geopolitical upheavals. Diethelm & Co. was founded in 1887 in by Wilhelm Heinrich Diethelm, a Swiss trader who acquired a majority stake in the existing firm Hooglandt & Co., originally established in 1860. Diethelm, who had arrived in in the early , initially concentrated on trading essential commodities such as for lighting, machinery, spices, and textiles, capitalizing on 's role as a burgeoning in . The company quickly expanded its operations across the and , establishing branches and adapting to local demands by diversifying into hardware and engineering supplies. By the early , Diethelm & Co. had developed a robust regional presence, navigating colonial dynamics and post-World War I economic recoveries through strategic partnerships with European suppliers. Ed. A. Keller & Co. originated in 1887 in , , when Eduard Anton Keller, another Swiss pioneer, took over and renamed C. Lutz & Co., a firm founded in 1866 that imported European textiles and consumer goods into the Spanish colonial markets. Keller, who had ventured to the in 1868, specialized in the distribution of high-quality imports such as watches, fabrics, and later engineering equipment, while exporting Philippine abaca and sugar. The company soon extended its reach to in the and into , where it focused on supplying industrial machinery and pharmaceuticals to growing urban centers. Through the early 1900s, Keller adapted to the shifting colonial landscapes, including American administration in the , by building localized supply chains and surviving the disruptions of via neutral Swiss affiliations and asset relocations. Siber & Brennwald, the precursor to SiberHegner, was established in 1865 in , , by Caspar Brennwald and Hermann Siber, two Swiss entrepreneurs who recognized opportunities in Japan's Meiji-era opening to . Initially focused on exporting Japanese silk and importing Swiss precision goods like watches, clocks, and pharmaceuticals, the firm also handled industrial products such as machinery and chemicals, positioning itself as a key intermediary in Yokohama's foreign settlement. In 1906, Robert Hegner joined as a partner, renaming it Siber, Hegner & Co. and expanding into broader Asian markets including and . The company weathered the and the challenges of by diversifying into wartime-neutral trades and relocating key operations, maintaining its reputation for reliable distribution of high-value European imports. Throughout the , these trading houses experienced steady growth by diversifying their portfolios into consumer goods, healthcare products, and performance materials, while establishing extensive distribution networks across —from and to and . They survived major disruptions, including the world wars, through adaptive strategies such as local incorporations, joint ventures with Asian partners, and a commitment to apolitical commerce, which preserved their Swiss heritage amid and economic booms. By the late , the companies operated independently with specialized regional footprints: Diethelm & Co. dominant in , Ed. A. Keller & Co. entrenched in the and , and SiberHegner leading in , setting the stage for future consolidations without altering their core trading ethos.

Formation through merger

DKSH Holding Ltd. was formed in June 2002 through the merger of Diethelm Keller Services Ltd., a of Diethelm Keller Holding Ltd., and SiberHegner Holding Ltd., establishing the company under its headquarters in , . The merger was motivated by a strategic shift from traditional trading operations to delivering integrated market expansion services, combining the predecessors' extensive networks across to better support clients' growth in the region. Upon formation, DKSH restructured its operations into four specialized business units—Consumer Goods, Healthcare, Performance Materials, and —to streamline services and align with key market sectors. In the years immediately following the merger, DKSH faced challenges in integrating the two entities' operations but achieved notable early success through revenue growth and operational unification, laying the foundation for its expansion as a leading services provider.

Expansion and key milestones

Following its formation in 2002, DKSH pursued aggressive expansion beyond , entering the European market in the early through a series of strategic acquisitions that bolstered its Performance Materials and other business units. Notable among these was the 2012 acquisition of Staerkle & Nagler, a Swiss-based specialty chemicals , which enhanced DKSH's pan-European distribution network and client base in the chemicals sector. Subsequent deals, such as the 2014 purchase of Zeus Química in and , further solidified its Iberian footprint, while the 2015 acquisition of Andreas Jennow expanded operations in , providing better access to global markets for suppliers. These moves marked DKSH's shift from an Asia-centric model to a more diversified global presence, with North American operations—initially established through predecessor entities and formalized under the DKSH banner—adding key markets like the by integrating distribution and services. Between 2018 and 2020, DKSH focused on strengthening its footprint in and via targeted acquisitions, enhancing service offerings in consumer goods and sectors. The 2019 acquisition of CTD, a prominent consumer goods distributor in , expanded DKSH's portfolio in and improved for international brands. In 2023, DKSH acquired Bio-Strategy, the largest independent distributor of scientific instruments in and , reinforcing its Technology business unit by adding specialized laboratory solutions and after-sales support. These acquisitions contributed to overall growth, with DKSH expanding to operations in 36 countries by 2025, supported by approximately 28,000 employees and a network spanning , , and the . In response to global disruptions, DKSH adapted its post-COVID-19 by enhancing digital capabilities and resilience measures, including rapid scaling of cold chain delivery services in key hubs like to meet surging demand for and products. The company also introduced advanced , such as automated distribution centers in , to streamline and reduce environmental impact amid ongoing supply volatility. Paralleling these operational shifts, DKSH advanced its sustainability efforts with the 2022 Sustainability Report, which outlined a revised ESG framework aligned with UN , emphasizing reduced carbon emissions, diverse leadership, and community initiatives—achieving a 55% CO2 reduction target by 2024. Recent milestones underscore DKSH's continued evolution, including digital transformation initiatives like the rollout of e-commerce platforms such as LabShop, which facilitate B2B laboratory procurement across 11 Asian markets and drive a projected 22.74% CAGR in regional online spending through 2032. In 2025, DKSH acquired Eppendorf's direct operations in , bolstering its Technology unit with expanded life sciences distribution and integrating Eppendorf's portfolio of lab instruments into its Asian network. That same year, the company marked its 160th anniversary of presence in with the "Evening of Gratitude" event in , celebrating its origins in 1865 and longstanding contributions to Japan-Switzerland trade in sectors like pharmaceuticals and food.

Corporate structure and governance

Headquarters and organization

DKSH is headquartered at Wiesenstrasse 8, 8034 , , which serves as the company's global nerve center responsible for strategic direction, governance, and coordination of across its operations. This central location in facilitates oversight of the group's international activities, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives while supporting efficient for units and regional entities. The organizational structure of DKSH employs a matrix model that integrates four specialized business units—Consumer Goods, Healthcare, Performance Materials, and Technology—with regional clusters spanning , & (EMEA), and the . This framework allows for cross-functional collaboration, where business units focus on sector-specific expertise and regional teams adapt strategies to local market dynamics. Centralized functions, including IT, , and , are managed from the corporate center to provide standardized support and drive operational efficiencies across the global network. Shared services are bolstered by key hubs such as the Digital & IT center in , , which delivers global and solutions to support thousands of users worldwide. Complementing this, the Corporate (CSSC) in handles business process operations, streamlining administrative and operational tasks on a group-wide scale. Additionally, DKSH maintains 59 innovation centers globally to aid efforts, enabling tailored solutions and application development for clients in diverse markets. With 26,167 employees (full-time equivalents as of December 31, 2024), DKSH emphasizes local expertise by embedding teams within individual markets to navigate regulatory, cultural, and economic nuances effectively. This decentralized approach within the matrix structure ensures that while global standards are upheld, operations remain responsive to regional needs, fostering sustainable growth across its 36 markets.

Leadership and executive team

Stefan P. Butz has served as of DKSH since March 2017, after joining the company in January of that year as a member of the Executive Committee. With a background in testing and certification services, Butz previously held senior roles at SÜD AG, including Head of Corporate Development, where he gained expertise in (M&A) and strategic growth initiatives. Under his leadership, DKSH has emphasized margin expansion through operational efficiencies and targeted M&A activities to enhance market presence in and beyond. The Executive Committee, which supports Butz in overseeing group-wide strategy, includes several key figures driving functional and business unit priorities. Ido Wallach, since April 2021, brings over 20 years of experience in finance and capital markets across , , and the , previously serving as Group CFO at Julius Bär Group; his role focuses on financial transformation and . has led the Healthcare Unit since 2017, having joined DKSH in 2015; with prior senior positions at spanning 11 years in global business development and market access, Singh directs healthcare market expansion services across 12 Asian markets and . In the Goods Unit, Chris Ritchie serves as Head, while Subhadip Mitra was appointed Vice President for (FMCG) in October 2025, leveraging his prior experience as and Country Head for FMCG in to bolster regional sales and distribution strategies. Sam Oh, since February 2021, previously headed Global IT at GLP in ; he oversees digital transformation, e-commerce, and IT infrastructure, drawing on his background in and . The broader committee, averaging approximately 8 years of tenure as of 2025, also includes Antoine Mangin (), Jasprit Sahnsi (, appointed March 2025), and others focused on , performance materials, and units. This leadership team drives business unit strategies by integrating , digital innovation, and regional expertise to support DKSH's market expansion services. The Board of Directors, with an international composition reflecting DKSH's global footprint, provides strategic oversight and governance. Marco Gadola has chaired the Board since May 2020 and was reelected in March 2025, bringing experience as CEO of Straumann Group in healthcare and consumer goods. Key members include Andreas W. Keller and Adrian T. Keller (both non-executive directors with long-standing ties to the company), Annette Köhler (Audit Committee Chair since 2022), and newer appointees such as Suwannee Ratthayabandith (joined March 2025, former Managing Director at Thai Union Life Science). The Board averages about 6 years of tenure as of 2025, ensuring diverse nationalities and expertise in , healthcare, and finance to guide ethical and sustainable growth.

Ownership and shareholder structure

DKSH Holding AG has been publicly listed on the under the ticker symbol DKSH since its on March 20, 2012. As of November 19, 2025, the company's stands at approximately CHF 3.51 billion. The structure of DKSH is dominated by private companies, which hold 45% of the shares, with Diethelm Keller Holding Ltd. as the largest single shareholder controlling a 45% stake and thereby exercising significant influence over the company. Institutional investors own 26% of the shares, including notable holdings such as Black Creek Investment Management, Inc. with 3%. Individual investors and the general public hold 29% . DKSH maintains a dual governance structure consisting of a , which provides strategic oversight, and an Executive Committee responsible for operational management and implementation. The company complies with the for corporate reporting and adheres to non-financial disclosure requirements, including ESG matters as outlined in Article 964 of the Code. Shareholders exercise their rights through annual general meetings (AGMs), where key decisions such as approvals are made; for instance, the 92nd AGM in March 2025 represented 83.24% of the . DKSH follows a progressive , with payouts approved annually at the AGM and increasing year-over-year, such as the 4.4% rise to CHF 2.35 per share in 2025, totaling CHF 152.9 million distributed to shareholders.

Business units

Consumer Goods

DKSH's Consumer Goods business unit serves as a primary distributor and market expansion partner for (FMCG), services, and luxury and companies, focusing on products such as , beverages, personal care items, and premium consumer brands. In 2024, this unit generated net sales of CHF 3.4 billion, representing approximately 31% of the group's of CHF 11.1 billion. With 14,250 specialists serving 800 clients across 19 markets, the unit leverages 160 years of experience to connect global brands with consumers through integrated solutions. The unit provides comprehensive services including to optimize product reach, (3PL) for warehousing and distribution, and fourth-party logistics (4PL) solutions that encompass credit collection, control, and invoicing for seamless operations. Additional offerings involve integration to facilitate online channels and retail expansion, alongside , activation, and field services to enhance visibility in modern trade, general trade, and pharmacies. These services support access to over 416,000 retail outlets and platforms, with facilities adhering to standards like ISO 9001 and GMP. DKSH Consumer Goods maintains partnerships with global FMCG brands, such as Kellanova for distributing and products in , and for expanding beverage and wellness offerings in , , , and . In October 2025, DKSH appointed Stephen Mawby as Vice President for FMCG in to lead business expansion efforts. Recent partnerships include an exclusive agreement with Vietnam for snacks and beverages, and with Del Monte in October 2025 to expand ready-to-eat food offerings in . A distinctive emphasis of the unit lies in facilitating transitions from traditional brick-and-mortar retail to digital channels, particularly in Asia's dynamic consumer markets, where is projected to account for 30% of FMCG sales by 2030. This approach integrates physical distribution with online platforms to drive personalized consumer experiences and . The unit's operations draw brief support from DKSH's presence in and to enable these hybrid retail strategies.

Healthcare

DKSH Healthcare is the company's leading business unit dedicated to market expansion services for the pharmaceutical, , and consumer health sectors, primarily in and . It offers end-to-end solutions including , distribution, and after-sales support for ethical pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter (OTC) products, nutraceuticals, and medical devices, enabling healthcare companies to navigate complex market entries and supply chains. In , the unit generated net sales of CHF 5.7 billion, accounting for approximately 51% of DKSH's total group revenue of CHF 11.1 billion, with a growth of 6.0% at constant exchange rates (CER) and a core EBIT margin of 2.9%. Key services encompass regulatory support through 110 specialists who handle product registration, compliance checks, labeling, marketing authorizations (MAs), variations, renewals, and for drug safety monitoring across the . Distribution leverages a network reaching over 125,000 healthcare facilities in 16 markets, featuring certified cold-chain logistics for temperature-sensitive items, 24/7 medical device delivery, importation, customs clearance, and clinical trial support. Additional offerings include consulting via early access programs, pre-license sales, and price listing; after-sales services such as inventory and named patient supplies; and training for healthcare professionals integrated into marketing and sales strategies. Recent developments include the 2024 acquisition of Medipharm Sdn Bhd in , which generates net sales of more than CHF 30 million and expands the unit's footprint in for pharmaceutical and device distribution. The unit also formed a with Kyowa Kirin in 2024 to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions across six markets, enhancing service integration. These initiatives, alongside the launch of the ConnectPlus CRM platform for improved distribution efficiency, underscore ongoing efforts to bolster operational capabilities. In November 2025, DKSH partnered with Healthcare and Medical Saigon Group to deploy advanced eye care technology across . The unit's unique focus lies in navigating stringent regional regulations, such as those from Asia's FDA equivalents, through proactive documentation and compliance expertise, as demonstrated in markets like and where local regulatory hurdles are addressed via dedicated centers and harmonization efforts. Innovation is supported by advanced facilities, including Asia's largest automated healthcare (OP1) in , which optimizes product adaptation and supply chain resilience for regulated health products. Briefly, it integrates with the unit for tools to enhance patient-centric solutions.

Performance Materials

The Performance Materials business unit of DKSH specializes in the sourcing, marketing, sales, distribution, and of specialty chemicals, ingredients, and industrial materials, primarily serving manufacturers in key sectors such as , and construction. In 2024, this unit generated net sales of CHF 1.4 billion, accounting for approximately 13% of DKSH's of CHF 11.1 billion, with a focus on high-value, innovative products that support industrial applications like coatings, adhesives, and electronic components. Key services include global sourcing from suppliers, technical marketing to match materials with market needs, application development through customized formulations, and comprehensive logistics solutions to ensure efficient supply chains for these specialized materials. These offerings enable partners to expand in complex markets, particularly in , where DKSH leverages its network to deliver support and digital tools for streamlined operations. A distinctive feature of the unit is its network of 59 innovation centers worldwide, which provide hands-on support for product development, such as formulating advanced coatings tailored for manufacturing hubs in , including applications in automotive finishes and electronic assemblies. Growth has been driven by strategic expansions into sustainable materials, notably bio-based alternatives and eco-friendly ingredients, with increased adoption accelerating post-2020 amid global demands for greener supply chains; this includes initiatives like the Responsible Suppliers Program to assess environmental performance. Recent developments include the of an upgraded Innovation Center in , , in September 2025, and an expanded exclusive distribution agreement with Ingredients for naturally-derived ingredients in in September 2025. The unit occasionally collaborates with DKSH's Technology business for complementary testing services in material validation.

Technology

The DKSH Technology business unit specializes in market expansion services for capital investment goods and analytical instruments, primarily distributing and servicing scientific laboratory equipment, technologies, and digital tools across . With operations in 16 markets and supported by over 1,800 specialists, including more than 650 service engineers, the unit focuses on sectors such as , industrial materials, , , , and . In 2024, it generated net sales of CHF 549.3 million, representing approximately 5% of the group's of CHF 11.1 billion, with a growth of 6.9% at constant exchange rates driven by strong demand in scientific solutions and semiconductors. Key services encompass the full spectrum of pre-sales and after-sales support, including , , distribution, consulting, customization, installation, commissioning, technical training, , and of equipment. The unit also provides IT and digital solutions, such as cloud-based laboratory systems, to optimize operations for clients in , , and testing environments. These offerings extend to and precision machinery, ensuring seamless integration of technologies from European, American, and Asian manufacturers tailored to regional needs. A distinctive emphasis lies in end-to-end lifecycle support for scientific instruments, covering everything from initial to ongoing and upgrades, as highlighted in DKSH's 2024 video on comprehensive service offerings. This approach is bolstered by strategic partnerships with firms, such as the 2025 collaboration with The Europlacer Group to distribute advanced and electronics assembly equipment customized for , and the May 2024 agreement with ATTO for precision in the region. These alliances enable localized adaptations, enhancing efficiency in high-tech applications. Recent developments underscore growth in the semiconductors segment amid the 2025 regional tech boom, fueled by global AI and demand projected to drive the market to $755.28 billion in 2025. The December 2024 acquisition of CLMO Technology Bhd in strengthened capabilities in and test , contributing to a 0.6% net sales increase to CHF 246.9 million in the first half of 2025 at constant exchange rates. This positions the unit to capitalize on Asia's expanding ecosystem, with minor overlaps in industrial tech services alongside the Performance Materials unit.

Global operations

Presence in Asia Pacific

DKSH has maintained a core operational presence in the region since its establishment in 1865, making it the company's primary market and historical foundation. In 2024, this region accounted for 97.5% of the company's total net sales of CHF 11,093.6 million, underscoring its dominant role in driving revenue growth through market expansion services across diverse sectors. DKSH operates in over 20 countries in the region, including key markets such as , , , , and , supported by more than 30 subsidiaries that facilitate localized distribution and . This extensive footprint enables the company to connect suppliers from , , and with regional customers, leveraging an asset-light model with leased facilities to ensure flexibility and efficiency. To adapt to the region's dynamic economic landscape, DKSH has developed localized supply chains tailored to high-growth areas like , particularly in and . In , the company launched an upgraded digital customer portal called "Discover" in 2024 to streamline interactions and support digital sales, while partnerships such as with aCommerce enhance B2C integration in . These efforts are complemented by an extensive network of over 79 distribution centers for alone, enabling rapid response to market demands and efficient inventory management across the region. In 2025, DKSH marked its enduring regional commitment through celebrations of its 160th anniversary in , including events in that highlighted growth milestones and partnerships, alongside recognitions like the Sino-Swiss Business Awards for . DKSH demonstrates particular strength in emerging economies, such as , where it supports manufacturing hubs through upgraded innovation centers and joint ventures like Cummins DKSH Vietnam LLC. The company provides tailored regulatory navigation services, assisting clients with compliance in complex environments, including product registration and certification in pharmaceuticals and consumer health. This expertise has enabled gains, for instance, in Vietnam's Consumer Goods sector amid retail booms. Overall, these adaptations position DKSH to capitalize on Asia Pacific's economic expansion while addressing localized challenges like supply chain diversification and regulatory harmonization.

Presence in Europe and North America

DKSH maintains its global headquarters in , , serving as the central hub for its European operations, which span key markets including , , , , , , the , and . In 2024, these European activities contributed to the company's "Rest of the World" segment, accounting for approximately 2.5% of total net sales of CHF 11,093.6 million, with a focus on market expansion services for business units such as Performance Materials and . The company supports reverse expansion by assisting Asian firms in entering Western markets, leveraging its established networks to navigate regulatory and logistical challenges in the region. In , DKSH has operated since 1985, with its regional head office in , , and additional facilities in , ; ; Mount Olive, ; and , . North American net sales reached CHF 133.5 million in 2024, representing a core part of the non-Asia Pacific revenue stream and emphasizing services in healthcare and performance materials to aid international partners' growth. The region features an extensive distribution network integrated with global operations, enabling efficient solutions for over 30 markets worldwide. To bolster its strategic footholds, DKSH has pursued targeted acquisitions in , such as Euroingredientes in in August 2024 to enhance life science distribution, and Aston Chemicals Ltd. in the UK and in September 2025 to expand personal care expertise, adding specialized teams and broadening market access. These moves align with growth strategies emphasizing consolidation in high-value sectors, while in , ongoing partnerships like the 2025 exclusive distribution agreement with Polygal AG for in the and strengthen reverse expansion efforts. European operations particularly adapt to high-tech demands, with the Technology business unit distributing semiconductor and products through subsidiaries in countries like and , supporting innovation in precision machinery and analytical instruments. Additionally, DKSH prioritizes sustainability compliance with stringent EU regulations, such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 on , by developing compliant formulations and conducting double materiality assessments to integrate ESG factors into operations. These adaptations not only ensure regulatory adherence but also support the broader global business units in delivering sustainable market expansion services.

References

  1. https://www.dksh.com/global-en/home/dksh-group/who-we-are
  2. https://www.dksh.com/global-en/home/investors/investor-news/dksh-celebrates-160-years-of-presence-in-asia
  3. https://www.dksh.com/ch-en/home/business-units
  4. https://www.dksh.com/global-en/home/dksh-group
  5. https://www.dksh.com/global-en/home/dksh-group/what-we-do
  6. https://www.dksh.com/global-en/home/business-units/consumer-goods
  7. https://www.dksh.com/global-en/home/business-units/healthcare
  8. https://www.dksh.com/global-en/home/business-units/technology
  9. https://www.dksh.com/content/download/26996/file/2025_Corporate_Brochure.pdf
  10. https://www.dksh.com/global-en/home/dksh-group/our-history
  11. https://www.dksh.com/global-en/home/investors/investor-news/dksh-delivers-core-ebit-growth-and-further-margin-expansion-reinforcing-resilience-amid-global-economic-uncertainty
  12. https://www.dksh.com/content/download/26811/file/Sustainability_Report_2024.pdf
  13. https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/business/global-trader-cements-swiss-roots-with-listing/32143904
  14. https://www.diethelmkeller.com/en/about/heritage/
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  16. https://www.tharawat-magazine.com/fbl/keller-family/
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  18. https://meiji-portraits.de/meiji_portraits_h.html
  19. https://www.dksh.com/site/content/download/26834/263370?version=3
  20. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2012-02-15/dksh-plans-initial-stock-sale-as-shareholder-seeks-to-diversify
  21. https://wwwdiethelmkellercom-live-ff768471ac984-ff86e37.divio-media.net/filer_public/8b/9a/8b9a82fb-4f0f-4c42-b89b-4944cce3b62a/dkh_ar_2007.pdf
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