ZURICH, Switzerland, Jan 30, 2026 – ABB plans to establish a new global headquarters in Zurich Oerlikon. The project, valued at about CHF 80 million, will provide a new workplace for about 500 employees based in Zurich.
ABB plans to reuse and modernize the Zurich building as part of the new headquarters, alongside a new extension designed by Christ & Gantenbein. The ABB Historic Building, leased to tenants, will be renovated in compliance with heritage protection rules while preserving its character for present day operational use. Reusing the existing structure is a central part of the project’s sustainability approach.
The project adds a six-story building in the inner courtyard, replacing the Chicago Hall event venue. The extension will use a brick façade to match the existing structure and a wood composite construction to limit material use. The site will also incorporate ABB technical systems and on-site photovoltaic generation to support low energy consumption.
ABB’s new headquarters will cover about 10,800 square meters. It will house employees from ABB corporate functions and business divisions. Key amenities will include a 200 square meter lounge and cafeteria, a 280 square meter lobby and exhibition area, a 450 square meter auditorium and media space, and an 80 square meter fitness center.
“By investing in this unique and central site, we are honoring our history while building for the future,” said Morten Wierod, CEO of ABB. “This project also underlines ABB’s strong commitment to Switzerland and the City of Zurich, where our global headquarters has been located since the merger of BBC and Asea in 1988 and where one of our predecessor companies, Maschinenfabrik Oerlikon (MFO), was based for many decades. The combination of a historic building and state-of-the-art facilities will provide an inspiring environment for collaboration and innovation.”
“I am delighted with ABB’s decision to continue investing in our city. ABB’s history is closely intertwined with Zurich’s industrial past. With this commitment to Zurich as a location, that shared history is being carried forward into the future,” said Corine Mauch, Mayor of Zurich. “In the coming years, an even more colorful and vibrant district for work, living and leisure will emerge north of Oerlikon railway station, shaped by a mix of historic industrial buildings, modern structures and green and recreational spaces. ABB’s contribution and the strong collaboration with ABB are key drivers of this forward-looking development.”
Planning for the headquarters project will continue over the next several years, with design expected in 2026/2027. Construction will begin after the design phase. ABB plans to move into the new headquarters in 2031. Until then, the company will operate from the Cityport building in Zurich Oerlikon.
Source: ABB
About ABB
ABB is a global technology company specializing in electrification and automation, with headquarters in Zürich, Switzerland, and Västerås, Sweden. Formed in 1988 through the merger of ASEA and Brown, Boveri & Cie, ABB operates in more than 100 countries and serves sectors such as utilities, transportation, infrastructure, and manufacturing. Its portfolio includes robotics, industrial automation systems, electrification products, and motion solutions. The company draws on engineering and digitalization expertise to help industries improve performance and operate efficiently. ABB has a history of more than 140 years and employs about 110,000 people worldwide.