Construction chemicals major Sika has hit the accelerator on its transformation, unveiling a bold “Fast Forward” program that pumps hundreds of millions into digitalization and efficiency to cement its dominance worldwide.
The company, which continues to outpace markets despite economic uncertainty, says the package is designed to fortify its already strong competitive position.
CEO Thomas Hasler said the initiative builds on a period of record profitability. “Sika is launching its ‘Fast Forward’ program from a position of strength. We have the highest profit margin ever and with ‘Fast Forward’, we are making Sika fit for the future."
He emphasized that the plan centers on digital investment and sharper customer focus. “Our goal is to become the digital leader in our construction markets – as a foundation for further growth and to strengthen our high profitability in the long term.”
Hasler added that organizational adjustments, particularly in China, will better position the company for shifting industry dynamics. “The construction and automotive sectors are experiencing a transition toward increasingly digitalized processes and electrification."
“We are ideally positioned to benefit from this global structural trend. In addition, there is a growing pent-up demand in many market segments around the world, which will lead to increased investment in coming years.”
Under the program, Sika plans structural changes in China and efficiency measures across other markets, incurring one-off costs of CHF 80–100 million in 2025. The company says the changes will optimize its global production network and streamline its organizational setup.
Sika will invest CHF 120–150 million through 2028 to overhaul its digital capabilities, aiming to secure a decisive competitive edge. The company expects annual savings of CHF 150–200 million once the program is fully implemented, with roughly CHF 80 million kicking in by 2026.
A central focus is boosting customer value. The company is rolling out its global CRM platform at speed, expanding its digital lab, and investing in advanced data and analytics systems. By connecting data from its R&D centers worldwide, Sika aims to accelerate innovation and improve solution development.
The program also includes a sweeping digital upgrade of Sika’s supply chain—automation, digital factory concepts, and logistics improvements designed to increase agility, service quality, and operational performance.
Despite ongoing volatility in China’s property sector, Sika says the country remains a cornerstone of its global growth strategy. Rising refurbishment needs and tougher building standards are expected to drive demand for the company’s high-performance solutions.
China’s influence in global construction and automotive markets continues to surge, with Chinese firms investing trillions in overseas projects since 2005 and poised to claim one-third of the global auto market by 2030. Sika says its long-standing partnerships with Chinese contractors and automakers give it an edge as these companies expand internationally.
_195_291.jpg)
