• ABB Sells Zurich Property for CHF 290 Million Gain, Paving Way for 500 New Apartments
ZURICH, Switzerland – Technology company ABB announced on January 28, 2026, the completed sale of a property in Zurich Oerlikon to real estate provider Pensimo.
The transaction will yield a pre-tax capital gain of approximately CHF 290 million for ABB and facilitate the construction of around 500 new apartments.
What is new?
ABB has successfully finalized the sale of a roughly 7,000 square-meter site located next to the Zurich Oerlikon railway station. The property, a former industrial site at Max-Frisch-Platz, was sold to Pensimo, a Zurich-based real estate service provider that invests on behalf of Swiss pension funds. ABB stated that the property was no longer required as a strategic land reserve for the company.
Financial Impact
As a result of the sale, ABB will record a pre-tax operational capital gain of approximately CHF 290 million. The company expects this gain to be reflected in its financial results for the first quarter of 2026.
Development Plans
The new owner, Pensimo, intends to develop the site over the next few years. Plans include the construction of around 500 apartments, a high-rise building, and commercial space. This development is part of a broader plan to transform the former industrial area of Neu-Oerlikon into a mixed-use district, combining residential, service, workplace, and cultural offerings, following special zoning regulations partially revised by the City of Zurich in 2022.
Background
The sale allows for the further development of the Neu-Oerlikon district. Despite the sale, ABB will maintain its connection to the area, where its global headquarters has been located since 1988. The company’s headquarters currently employs around 500 people.
About this company
ABB is a global technology company focused on electrification and automation. The company connects engineering and digitalization to help industries improve performance, efficiency, and productivity. With a history of over 140 years, ABB employs around 110,000 people worldwide. Its shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and Nasdaq Stockholm.
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