A position in the Swiss company Phonak was purchased at the end of May. Phonak specializes in the development, production and distribution of leading-edge hearing systems, and is one of the world leaders in the field. The company concentrates in particular on developing techniques for Claro, its range of entirely digital hearing aids. One year on from first being marketed in February 2000, Claro already accounted for 30% of sales.
The environmental and social assessment of the company is positive. Phonak's industry segment is very favorably placed in terms of sustainable development. Its business carries a low environmental risk, whereas the social usefulness of its products is high.
Although Phonak has not yet formalized its system of environmental management, the company already applies stringent environmental policies, particularly as regards the handling of toxic substances.
In terms of social sustainability, Phonak's products are obviously guided by levels of satisfaction in hearing-aid users. The company employs 2,100 staff worldwide (29% in Switzerland) and offers attractive working conditions and in particular, encourages open communication within every work team.
