Echoes of a global crisis
The episodes of economic deterioration, stagnation and recovery that followed one another after 1974 created a climate of widespread anxiety. The media fuelled and amplified fears of a sudden collapse of Swiss industry, mirroring what happening in major European countries affected by mass unemployment. The crisis is often tangible inside the factory themselves : a drop in orders, slower work pace and reduced production stocks. Oscillating between superficial optimism and cautious transparency, the communication strategy of companies amplified the rumour. A rumour that spreads irreparably by word of mouth in workshops, offices and local cafes alike. While takeovers by international groups sparked hope, uncertainty and anxiety became defining features of factory life. As it was the case when HPI was taken over by its competitor Olivetti in 1981, or Leclanché Capacitors by the Mersen group in 2018.