Bühler mourns loss of visionary former CEO and owner Urs Bühler, aged 82

Entrepreneur Urs Bühler, former CEO, Chairman, and owner of the Bühler Group, passed away on 1 August 2025, at the age of 82. His death marks the end of an era for the Swiss company, which he led and shaped over more than five decades.

Born in Uzwil in 1943, Urs Bühler joined the family business in 1970, stepping into various roles at home and abroad before becoming CEO in 1986 and Chairman of the Board of Directors in 1994. From 1990, he held sole ownership of the company, guiding Bühler through decades of growth, diversification and international expansion.

“He remains an inspiring role model to us as a visionary entrepreneur, innovator, and above all, a remarkable human being,” the company said in a statement. Despite his numerous achievements, Urs Bühler was known for his modesty, empathy, and commitment to long-term thinking.

With a degree in mechanical engineering from ETH Zurich, Bühler brought technical expertise to the company’s leadership. Under his guidance, the business evolved from a traditional mechanical engineering firm into a global technology group, with operations spanning food processing, advanced materials, and mobility. Key decisions during his tenure included the company's expansion into extrusion technology, early adoption of digital tools, and building a broad international presence.

Urs Bühler’s leadership was characterized by a steadfast focus on innovation. He initiated the Urs Bühler Innovation Fund, participated actively in its work, and oversaw major investments such as the Cubic Innovation Campus and the Bühler Energy Center. His principle of never compromising on innovation remains a cornerstone of the company’s approach today.

In 2001, Bühler began planning for succession, handing over day-to-day leadership to Calvin Grieder. In 2014, Grieder also became Chairman of the Board, while Urs Bühler transferred ownership of the company to his daughters Karin, Maya, and Jeannine Bühler, the fifth generation of the Bühler family. He had earlier passed on ownership of Uze AG, the family’s real estate management firm, in 2011.

“We are committed to the legacy of our father and predecessors and will continue to run Bühler as a family business,” his daughters stated. “The strategic focus on innovation, training and development, and sustainability also has our full support.”

Beyond Bühler, Urs Bühler played a prominent role in Swiss industry. He held numerous board positions, including with Swiss Bank Corporation, Sulzer Group, and Winterthur Insurance. He also served on the board of Swissmem for 30 years, making a lasting impact on Switzerland’s industrial landscape.

Outside of business, he was passionate about equestrian sports, skiing, and health. In 2004, he founded Health Balance AG to reflect his interest in holistic well-being for both humans and animals.

Bühler’s legacy lives on in the company’s global footprint, continued family ownership, and commitment to innovation and sustainability. As the company expressed in its tribute: “With gratitude and the utmost respect, we bid farewell to Urs Bühler.”