“Trust in power also means trust in people.”

PowerParts has been part of the Exista Group since this year. Why the integration?

From a strategic perspective, the acquisition is a perfect match for Exista. Each company has a leading position in a specialized field: Exista in power supplies, PowerParts in power electronics. On the other hand, there are strong synergies, for example in global procurement, services, employee expertise, and – most importantly – customers.

What added value do these synergies create for customers?

Our focus is on highly innovative industries such as rail, medtech, and infrastructure. Product development in these industries is very demanding, with power supplies and power electronics as integrated components. The ability to cover both components with one solution partner eliminates interfaces and leads to gains in quality assurance, time, and cost efficiency. Feedback from our customers on the merger confirms this added value.

What “superpower” does the Exista Group have that others don't?

The human factor. The global availability of technologies and products makes it difficult to differentiate oneself with run-of-the-mill components. In order to identify the offerings that most precisely and reliably fulfill a set of specifications from the wealth of options available, specialists who combine product and solution expertise are needed. We have these specialists, not just anywhere in the world, but here in Switzerland. That's why our motto “Trust in Power” also means “Trust in People.”

Power supplies, power electronics – and other solutions in the future?

Power supplies and power electronics are our core competencies. That's where we come from, and that's where we'll stay. However, we already offer complementary solutions, such as LED systems. I therefore see opportunities to apply our expertise in additional fields. I'm thinking, for example, of the area of energy storage.

Speaking of energy storage, how do you recharge your batteries after work? 

Certainly not with my cell phone charger (laughs). I get my energy from family life and sports, such as biking and hiking in nature. Cooking is also a passion of mine, with a particular fondness for Asian cuisine.

Thomas Fischer is CEO of the Exista Group, which comprises two companies: Exista (power supplies) and PowerParts (power electronics). He has thirty years of experience in the field of industrial power solutions. Before taking on the role of CEO, Thomas Fischer was responsible for business development at Exista.