Alcon (SIX/NYSE: ALC), the global leader in eye care dedicated to helping people see brilliantly, proudly celebrates the 110th anniversary of its site in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, operated for the last 25 years by Alcon Grieshaber AG, an Alcon subsidiary specialized in ophthalmic surgical instruments. Since its founding by Grieshaber AG in 1915, this facility has been at the forefront of microsurgical instrument development, driving advancements in vitreoretinal and cataract surgery.
As part of Alcon’s global surgical business, Alcon Grieshaber plays a critical role in the research, development, and manufacturing of high-precision instruments used by ophthalmic surgeons worldwide to deliver new solutions that restore or enhance vision, advance clinical practice, and improve the customer and patient experience. The site produces and distributes more than 1.4 million accessories and high-precision microsurgical instruments essential for vitreoretinal and cataract surgeries, such as various forceps and curved scissors, every year and is recognized globally for the specialized expertise of its team.
“For over a century, Grieshaber has continued to innovate and push the boundaries in ophthalmic surgery,” said Franck Leveiller, Senior Vice President, Global Research and Development (R&D), and Chief Scientific Officer for Alcon. “Our legacy of innovation and precision continues to drive surgical advancements, improving outcomes for patients and elevating the standard of eye care worldwide.”
Rooted in legacy, investing in innovation
Driven by innovation and rising global demand, Alcon has continuously invested in its R&D and manufacturing capabilities, including the 2024 relocation to a state-of-the-art R&D facility in neighboring Neuhausen am Rheinfall (SH). This facility features a dedicated wet lab where surgeons and engineers work together to provide direct feedback on prototypes, leveraging hands-on expertise and creative partnership to develop new surgical tools.
Grieshaber’s legacy dates to 1915, when Johannes Conrad Grieshaber, a skilled cutler in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, began developing and refining ophthalmic surgical instruments at the request of Swiss eye surgeons. Through close collaboration with leading ophthalmologists, the company evolved from a local precision workshop into a globally recognized pioneer in microsurgical instrument development. Alcon acquired Grieshaber in 2000, recognizing its longstanding expertise in precision ophthalmic microsurgery.
Niels Abt, Head of Research and Development at Alcon Grieshaber said: “Collaboration between surgeons and instrument makers has always been at the heart of our success. Our new R&D facility takes this partnership to the next level, providing a space where expertise and creativity come together to develop the next generation of microsurgical tools. This milestone is a testament to our dedication to precision, innovation, and excellence in eye care.”
“For 110 years, Grieshaber has stood for Swiss precision and innovation in ophthalmic surgery,” commented Thomas O’Neill, General Manager at Alcon Grieshaber. “This milestone is not only about celebrating our history, but also reinforcing our long-term commitment to advancing surgical instrumentation. With our expanded manufacturing site, we remain dedicated to producing world-class solutions that meet the evolving needs of surgeons and patients worldwide.”
As the global leader in eye care, Alcon offers the industry’s most comprehensive portfolio of surgical, ocular health, and vision care products. With one of the largest R&D commitments in the industry – having invested more than $5 billion in R&D since 2018 and announced a new spending target of 8-10% of sales annually in 2025 and beyond – Alcon continues to drive innovation in eye care. In the past five years, Alcon Grieshaber has developed 30 new products, reinforcing its position as a pioneer in vitreoretinal microsurgery. By advancing both surgical instrumentation and precision manufacturing, Alcon ensures that the highest quality tools are available to help shape the future of global eye care.
