Transport Companies of Central Switzerland 2026 General Assembly Held: Tourist mobility in Central Switzerland remains on a successful course

The members of the Transport Companies of Central Switzerland (TUZ) met for their general meeting on the Stoos.

The focus was on the successful 2025 summer season, an overall positive 2025/26 winter season, and the further development of the Lucerne Travel Pass and the association. Government Councillor Petra Steimen, along with representatives from Swiss Cableways and Garaventa, emphasized the high level of innovation within the Central Swiss industry and the importance of close cooperation between tourism, mountain railways, and public transport for sustainable value creation and the future of Central Switzerland as a tourist destination.

Successful season record and stable development

In his annual review, TUZ President René Koller emphasized the growing importance of year-round tourism for tourism transport companies in Central Switzerland. The 2025 summer season was successful. Stable weather conditions and the continued high demand for mountain experiences led to increased visitor numbers throughout Switzerland. Central Switzerland also saw growth compared to the previous year, significantly exceeding the five-year average (first-time visitors/guests: +33 percent). While the 2025/26 winter season presented challenges, particularly for lower-altitude areas, it developed positively overall (first-time visitors/guests: +16 percent compared to the five-year average). Thanks to artificial snowmaking and good snow conditions in the second half of the season, higher-altitude areas in particular achieved stable results.

Focus on innovation and regional value creation

In her welcoming address, Petra Steimen, member of the government of the Canton of Schwyz and head of the Department of Economic Affairs, emphasized the great importance of tourist transport companies and mountain railways for the economy of Schwyz and the entire Central Switzerland region. She noted that innovative companies like the Stoos cable cars exemplify how modern tourism, technological development, and regional roots can successfully work together. Berno Stoffel, Director of Swiss Cableways, and Marcel Nussbaumer, Head of Marketing and Sales at Garaventa AG, based in Goldau, also highlighted the strong innovative capacity of the Central Swiss tourism and cable car industry. The region plays a leading role nationwide, whether in technological developments, investments in modern infrastructure, or sustainable mobility solutions. The speakers also agreed on the importance of close cooperation between tourism, mountain railways, and public transport. Especially in times of increasing international competition and rising demands for sustainable offerings, coordinated solutions and strong partnerships are crucial for the long-term success of the industry. The focus is not solely on increasing visitor numbers, but also on offerings with high regional added value, targeted visitor management, and close networking among tourism stakeholders in Central Switzerland.

Lucerne Travel Pass successfully launched

A key milestone of the past year was the launch of the Lucerne Travel Pass. With a new name and modernized brand identity, the former Tell-Pass was repositioned on April 1, 2026.

A launch event on Lake Lucerne, with over 80 participants from the industry, marked the official start of the combined tourist ticket for Central Switzerland. At the same time, digitalization and cooperation within Central Switzerland were further advanced.

Snow Pass holds its own in dynamic market

Developments in national fare networks such as the Magic Pass and the Alps Pass remain an important issue for Central Switzerland's ski resorts. Despite increasing competition, the Central Switzerland Ski Pass continues to hold its own as a strong regional product. The network remains particularly attractive for active skiers and snowboarders, as well as for sports associations. TUZ continues to monitor market developments closely and maintains close coordination with its member resorts and sports associations.

Re-elections to the board

The members confirmed René Koller as President of TUZ and Reto Marzer, CEO of Auto AG Uri, for another term on the board. Auditors Marcel Waldis (Rigi Bahnen AG) and Pascal Koch (SGV Holding AG) were also re-elected for another year.

Exchange and a shared look to the future

Following the official part of the general assembly, members, partners, and guests took the opportunity for personal exchange and networking. Despite a challenging environment and global uncertainties, TUZ members are looking ahead to the upcoming summer season with confidence.