175 years of pioneering spirit at a glance
From bone processing to regenerative medicine, from a local glue factory to a global leader in dental medicine. Join us on a journey through 175 years of innovation, courage, and transformation.
Switzerland’s first glue factory
Just three years after the Swiss federal state was founded, Heinrich Glättli and Heinrich Geistlich established Switzerland’s first glue factory on Lake Zurich, laying the foundation for today’s Geistlich.
Move to Schlieren
The factory moved to Schlieren, becoming the town’s first industrial enterprise. With 13 employees, production expanded to fertilizer made from deglazed bones.
Eduard Geistlich goes international
After his father’s death, Eduard Geistlich took over and began expanding internationally. Despite tariffs and competition, the company’s quality stood out, gaining recognition abroad.
New production site in Wolhusen
Geistlich acquired a hosiery and button factory in Wolhusen. One year later, Eduard Geistlich's 18-year-old son converted the site to glue and fertilizer production. After the opening of the Simplon Tunnel in 1905, then the longest in the world, Geistlich hired skilled workers who had become available to build a water channel for another hydroelectric power plant. The electricity generated supplied not only the factory but also three surrounding villages.
Shaping the Limmat Valley
Eduard Geistlich was a pioneer who left a lasting mark on Schlieren. Under his leadership, the production facilities expanded steadily, and he also helped drive the development of the region: he initiated the first electricity supply, contributed to the construction of the Limmattalbahn railway (1901), and installed the first telephone, which he made available to the public free of charge. As early as 1902, he opened a kindergarten and supported the reopening of the secondary school. Geistlich’s forward-looking attitude continues to shape the company to this day—a company that proudly bears his name.
A family stepping into the future
After Eduard’s death, his eight children took over and established the family-owned stock corporation “Ed. Geistlich Söhne AG,” ensuring independence and readiness for new beginnings.
Staying resilient through World War I
Demand for glue and fertilizer rose sharply. Geistlich arranged bone imports from Spain, Malta, and France—often trading glue in return. Despite these challenging times, the company invested in a welfare center in 1917 with a kitchen, dining room, and bathrooms for its employees, and also supported local housing.
