5 questions for BernCity
The run-up to Christmas means shopping time. The festive season is in full swing in Bern’s city centre – and BernCity, the association supporting the downtown area, is at the heart of it. Sven Gubler, President of BernCity, shares how the association works to create a vibrant centre – for the benefit of shops, locals and guests alike.
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Sven, the festive season is in full swing in Bern’s shops. What does this time of year mean for BernCity?
The pre-Christmas period is intense. Many of our members generate a large share of their annual turnover during this time – it’s both joyful and hectic. The same goes for us at BernCity. Our gift card is especially popular, with numerous orders coming in from private individuals as well as companies looking to treat their staff or clients. Most prefer to order through our online shop – helping to ease the pressure on local stores during this busy season.
What does BernCity offer for local businesses – and for residents and visitors in Bern?
A lot! BernCity’s entire work as an association focuses on supporting its more than 200 members – including shops, restaurants, bars and cultural or leisure providers in the city centre. Some of this work happens behind the scenes, such as political efforts to create favourable conditions for the inner city.
One highly visible initiative is the BernCity gift card. It delights recipients and strengthens the local economy by keeping money in Bern. It brings more customers to the shops and boosts turnover. And unlike many other cashless payment methods, every franc spent goes directly to the businesses – with no commission fees. Ultimately, residents and visitors also benefit from a thriving and lively city centre.
Sven Gubler, BernCity
Sven has been involved with BernCity since 2012 – first as director for ten years, and now as president for the past two. Active and well connected, he brings professional experience from public administration, politics, organisations and business – a blend that serves Bern’s city centre well.
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In Bern’s Old Town, you are well connected with the local shops. This year, you’ve also joined the Bern Network. What do you hope to gain – and how might others benefit from your presence?
Cross-sector exchange is key to our work. That’s why we joined the Bern Network. It allows us to build new connections and gain valuable insights from companies beyond our own member base. At the same time, we can raise awareness of BernCity and what we do. These meetings spark inspiration, fresh ideas – and sometimes even new collaborations.
We’re involved because we all share the same goal: a vibrant Bern with attractive offers and thriving businesses.
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Bern, I love you …
… Favourite product: the Aare bag
… Favourite place: Zytglogge
… Favourite word: “Gänggele” (shopping)
To finish: who would you like to read about in the next edition of the Bern Network?
I’d love to read about Bindella. Their restaurants – from Lorenzini to Santa Lucia to the Kornhauskeller – are true Bern institutions. And who knows, perhaps this friendly recommendation (with a wink) might even inspire them to join BernCity.
Many thanks!
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