History of the ABB childcare centers

How it all started

1966: the first BBC childcare center
In 1966, the first BBC childcare center as it was then known was opened in Baden for children of employees. The background to this was the increase in the employment of guest workers – mainly from Italy – and their difficult social situation. Even then, ABB already recognised its social responsibility towards its employees and the community. The primary objective at that time was to keep the children fed and bring them closer to their new and unfamiliar home in Switzerland.

1973 – 1993: further childcare centers opened
Another childcare center was opened at the Turgi site in 1973. The next one – in Oerlikon – didn’t open until some 20 years later in 1993.

1996: foundation of the Association
In 1996, ABB Switzerland decided to convert the childcare centers into a legally independent association. This was also when the centers were first opened to non-ABB employees.

From this point on, external companies were able to participate by becoming members of the Association. Although this process led to increased demand for childcare places, it also secured the centers’ funding. To date, some 30 companies have joined the Association. The last 20 years have also seen the childcare sector change significantly and become professionalised.

2011: introduction of the balanced scorecard
In 2011, the Association of ABB Childcare Centers introduced the balanced scorecard. This strategic planning and management system helps us to run our business more systematically and professionally.

2016: 20-year anniversary
2016 has been a very special year for all of us. The Association of ABB Childcare Centers has celebrated both its own 20-year anniversary and the 50-year anniversary of the opening of the first ABB childcare center.

2016: The anniversary year
Chronology (german)

ABB childcare centers today

To date, some 30 companies have joined the Association and the demand for childcare places is increasing. The last 20 years have also seen the childcare sector change significantly and become professionalised.

The Association of ABB Childcare Centers is a non-profit organisation financed by parents’ and member companies’ contributions. Any surpluses are invested in building new or renovating existing childcare facilities.

Only legal entities can become members of the Association of ABB Childcare Centers. Details of this, as well as the duties, responsibilities and powers are defined in the statutes of the Association of ABB Childcare Centers.

The year in review

Annual Report 2023 (German)