In just 15 years, Pearl Technology has made the leap from an ETH start-up to a global provider of positioning aids in radiology.
Dr. Thomas Müller, General Manager at Pearl Technology, talks about the role of networks, the road to success and the potential of the project KOYO for the healthtech community in Schlieren.
Dr. Thomas Müller, what is the success story behind Pearl Technology?
We started about 15 years ago. In medical technology, it often takes a long time to achieve success. A key factor is our great team, who persevere and always go the extra mile. Many of them have been with us for a long time, which strengthens the team spirit. Our environment also plays a key role. We have found the perfect location in Schlieren and have been operating there with Pearl Technology since 2016. Before that, we were also based in Schlieren. It takes a strong network, committed people and a lot of perseverance.
You offer solutions based on patented technology. Tell us about it.
It all started at ETH when I needed a better positioning aid for an osteoporosis examination. The solution at the time was simply not sufficient. Together with a student, we tried to develop a better solution as part of a student research project. This work ultimately gave rise to the idea of patenting the product. We approached the ETH and received a broad patent, which proved to be very flexible and easy to use.
And then?
After the patent was granted, we asked ourselves the question: What do we do with it? The basic idea was simple – air pressure on Kügelein fixes the patient. We implemented this and the product is now used in around 30 countries worldwide. Step by step, everything came together: Patent, out-licensing, founding the start-up at ETH, various rounds of financing – until we finally became a company that lives off its own revenues.
How much do you rely on other partners?
Absolutely crucial. Today, we work with major manufacturers such as Siemens, Philips and Canon. But cooperation was just as important at the beginning. We needed a hospital that gave us access and was willing to carry out tests and start trials. Without the close connection to ETH, where we had our first office, it would have been extremely difficult to build something up. We are in a very good position in Switzerland because you can start small here and make something big out of it.
How do you assess the framework conditions for healthtech companies in Switzerland?
Switzerland offers great conditions: lots of talent, enormous knowledge and a safe environment. With programs like Innosuisse and the innovation opportunities we have here, the transfer from ETH, universities and universities of applied sciences to start-ups or established companies is excellent. Switzerland is a perfect place for innovation.
And in Zurich?
Zurich is a hotspot for talent and attracts many specialists. It’s not always easy to find new employees, but our proximity to Zurich gives us a clear advantage. We used to call it «Zurich-Schlieren», now we just call it «Schlieren» because it now has its own dynamic.
Schlieren seems to play a decisive role for the industry, doesn’t it?
Schlieren itself is characterized by its flexibility and dynamism. Initiatives such as the Healthtechpark and the Biotechpark have created a strong network here. Personalities such as Albert Schweizer from the city of Schlieren have made a lot possible by flexibly responding to the needs of start-ups. The rental conditions were also adaptable, which is extremely important for young companies like us. I was active in the «Start Smart Schlieren» association from the very beginning, which showed that this is an ideal location for start-ups.
And with Pearl Technology, they have also opted for Schlieren.
After our time at Technopark in Zurich, we needed more space, so we moved out of the city. Schlieren was the next logical step. After a phone call with Albert Schweizer and a spontaneous meeting, everything was very dynamic and uncomplicated. A suitable building had just become available and we were able to move in.
Does Schlieren have more to offer the healthtech sector?
Certainly its proximity to ETH and the University of Zurich, but also its easy accessibility. Our employees come from various regions such as Solothurn, Schaffhausen and Lake Zurich. Schlieren is perfectly located. It is also financially more favorable than Zurich, and we need both production and storage space. The city has developed enormously in recent years and the old stories about the location are a thing of the past. I have witnessed the positive development myself over the last 15 years and it is a pleasure to work here.
What advantages do you see for the project KOYO?
KOYO benefits from its lively surroundings with many families, its proximity to the train station and Zurich Airport and its direct connection to Zurich as a talent hub. With its striking tower, KOYO will be a real flagship project, perfectly complemented by the neighboring Biotechno-Park and Startup Space. A strong local community is being created here.
Pearl Technology is a member of Healthtechpark Schlieren. What are the synergies?
The Healthtechpark is still relatively young, but we are already benefiting greatly from it. The monthly coffee meeting, where managing directors and co-owners can exchange ideas, is particularly valuable. We talk about common challenges, refer employees or find solutions to similar problems. This exchange at different levels is extremely helpful.
Are there any other disciplines?
The Healthtechpark also offers workshops on topics such as quality management and regulatory affairs, in which other companies take part. You can listen, learn and take away valuable information. The legal advice for young companies is also an important source of support. You simply ask the network and often receive helpful tips.
Sounds like a strong community …
The Healthtechpark complements existing networks in Schlieren such as the IFJ and the Biotechpark. Until now, medical technology has lacked just such a community. Now the Healthtechpark is growing, and the new KOYO building is an important addition. Schlieren needs its own healthtech building, and KOYO will fill this gap perfectly.
What factors are decisive for success in the Healthtech sector?
In our industry, you need one thing above all: time. Patience is crucial because the regulations are complex and the cycles are long. It can take a good two to three years before we can place an accessory on a device, as everything has to be regulatory compliant – from both sides according to MDR. Every change has to be thoroughly checked, for example whether it affects the beam path.
This staying power is not only important for companies, but also for location promotion, real estate owners and projects such as KOYO, which also have to plan for the long term. Mutual support and cooperation are crucial to achieving positive results in the healthtech sector.
What do you think?
Does KOYO meet the requirements and expectations of the industry? What I’ve seen and heard so far and the first impressions from the homepage completely convince me. The project is great – the location, the concept of the community and the shared office spaces fit perfectly. It reminds me a bit of the Start-Up Space, which is going in a similar direction. The laboratory space in particular plays an important role, even if we personally need less of it. However, many healthtech companies need exactly this kind of lab space, and I’m sure KOYO meets expectations here.
Would you like to move in straight away?
I’ve already told my team that we have to step on the gas until the opening in 2028 to secure a few offices up there (smiles). The view must be fantastic. But it’s not just about the building itself – it has to remain dynamic and flexible, including in terms of marketing. Access to the communities is just as important, and I am convinced that this project offers all of that. Now it’s time to implement the whole thing and see that it takes flight.
To what extent is KOYO’s community concept relevant for the industry?
Absolutely central. Through the network, I find partners who in turn connect me with other important contacts. These relationships often lead to partnerships with other companies. A strong network is a key to success.
And for the team?
In addition to networking, it’s also about making employees feel comfortable. It’s not just about working, but also about the feeling of enjoying coming to work. Things like a common room, a canteen or even a table tennis table make all the difference. If the atmosphere is right, employees stay longer and the knowledge stays in the company. Nobody wants to lose a good team member after two years – that would be a shame.
Are you already living this?
This has been somewhat lacking in the healthtech sector to date. The Healthtechpark is still young, but it is growing. It’s already working well at the Bio-Technopark – we meet there regularly for an after-work beer. It would be great if we could do that at KOYO in the future.
Last but not least, what is your advise for the client when implementing the building?
Of course, reserving two or three offices for us on the top floor would be brilliant. But seriously: the way the project is planned, it looks very good. My recommendation is to retain the flexibility. It’s important to find strong anchor tenants with well-known names, but at the same time leave room for young, growing companies. They only need a few square meters at the beginning, but should have room to grow. If the team behind KOYO can achieve this, nothing can really go wrong at this location.