July 2021 – A major corporate development in July 2021 saw German tech group Rohde & Schwarz acquire Zurich Instruments, a Swiss test & measurement firm known for its quantum control electronics. Zurich Instruments, a spin-off from ETH Zurich, had become a leader in specialized instrumentation for quantum labs (like quantum computer control systems).
The deal, completed on July 1, 2021, makes Zurich Instruments a wholly owned subsidiary of Rohde & Schwarz. The parent company stated that integrating the Swiss firm will expand its portfolio of quantum-ready measurement tools and strengthen its position in the burgeoning quantum computing market.
Why it’s important:
Zurich Instruments’ acquisition highlights the commercial value of Switzerland’s quantum startups. The Swiss company’s devices are critical for operating quantum computers and quantum communication systems worldwide. By joining forces with a larger multinational, it gains resources to scale up product development, while Rohde & Schwarz gains cutting-edge quantum expertise.
For Switzerland, the move is a double-edged sword: it showcases Swiss innovation attracting big investors (validating the local quantum ecosystem), but also serves as a reminder that tech talent and IP can be snapped up by foreign players. Nonetheless, Zurich Instruments continues to operate in Zurich, now with greater global reach – a win for the local high-tech economy.
