In the shift towards e-mobility, Bühler’s megacasting solutions, and the range of solutions for the crucial process steps in lithium-ion battery-cell production, play important roles. Our electrode slurry solutions support the photovoltaic and capacitors industries. Our solutions for the semiconductor market and for precision optical applications, particularly in optical sensing and smart glasses, contribute significantly to the photonics sector.

Moreover, with our high-capacity grain processing solutions, food parks expertise, and grain logistic applications, we have been able to contribute to improved food security. Innovations in food processing that integrate plant-based protein enable our customers to create new consumer products that are affordable, nutritious, tasty, and have a lower environmental footprint. And our innovative products and services in consumer foods sectors such as chocolate, coffee, cookies, wafers, and many more enabled us to take part in growing markets globally.

Together with our wide range of services, this broad portfolio bolstered our business in 2023. We increased turnover and profitability, maintained a strong financial position, and managed to improve our equity ratio to more than 51%.  We also demonstrated that our purpose – innovations for a better world – is connected to our performance. 

Proximity to customers is vital. Our global network of manufacturing sites, service stations, and engineering hubs enable us to react fast to market trends and consumer needs. In 2023, we continued to strengthen our global footprint by investing in new Application & Training Centers. 

Reflecting the development of the world economy in 2023, the share of order intake was balanced across our regions, with the Americas at 30%, Asia at 28%, Europe at 25%, and Middle East, Africa & India at 17%. Bühler’s business is well represented in the key markets.   

In 2023, we refined our sustainability strategy internally and externally, and continued to implement it. Our biggest impact comes from supporting our customers. We are committed to having solutions ready to multiply by 2025 that reduce energy, waste, and water by 50% in the value chains of our customers. Our services, which improve the installed base of our customers, play a key role in achieving these goals.  

Internally, we have developed a pathway to achieve a 60% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in our own operations by 2030. As of the end of 2023, we have already achieved a reduction in Scopes 1 and 2 of nearly 20% compared to our 2019 baseline. 

We can only achieve our goals with skilled and engaged people. This is why we place great value on the training and education of our employees, and also make these offerings available to our customers. By investing in schools around the world and in facilities such as the Bühler Energy Center, we ensure that everyone is fit for the future. 

We would like to thank you, our customers, partners, and employees – and last but not least our owners, the Bühler family – for the confidence and trust you have placed in Bühler and the loyalty you have shown. The close collaboration with all of you has never been more appreciated than during these turbulent times. 

Yours sincerely,