Pascal Loretz has taken over the management of Kockum Sonics AG as of 1 January 2021. He replaces Herbert Loretz, who has decided to leave the helm to a new generation. Herbert will continue to assist Kockum Sonics AG in an advisory capacity and manage the After Sales division.

Pascal Loretz has been with Kockum Sonics AG for over 10 years. He started as a siren fitter and service technician, has been a project manager for almost 7 years and a member of the management team for 5 years. After completing his apprenticeship as an EFZ electrician, he continued his education. Pascal is currently completing a part-time Executive Master in Business Administration (EMBA) at the University of Bern. Thanks to his many years of experience and by helping to shape the strategic development of the company, he has been able to contribute a great deal to the success of Kockum Sonics AG today.

Quote: “Moving forward with vision and tradition at heart.”

What is the biggest challenge for you in your new position?

I know the customer needs, the company structure, the product and service portfolio and the future challenges very well. I consider the biggest challenge in my new function to be the strategic development of the company and the business model, while at the same time not neglecting the operative “daily business”. With the introduction of an ERP system, this also means a structural and cultural change. With the new system, we are creating a good basis for opening up new interesting opportunities. My goal is to actively involve and accompany the team in this change, and to approach the future challenges with foresight and the necessary ambidexterity.

How do you look forward to the future of Kockum Sonics?

Despite the regulatory change (BZG revision) as of 01.01.2021 in our relevant market, I am positive about the future. However, it is clear to me that we need to transform and realign the existing established business model. I am sure that we will continue to shape the siren market in the future and continue to be a reliable partner.

How do you see the future of alerting and warning in Switzerland?

I am convinced that sirens will continue to be an important part of alerting and warning in the future. A look at ongoing alerting projects in other countries underlines this statement. I believe that digitalisation, especially new technologies (IOT, AI, AR), will have a major impact on products and services in the future, as well as offering interesting prospects. I think the multi-channel approach is right and should be further expanded. I also believe that decentralised, networked and flexible alerts and warnings will become more important in the future and that interesting synergies should be used with existing infrastructures.