Globus

In 1892, inspired by Parisian department stores, Josef Weber opened 'J. Weber's Bazar' in Zurich, a novel concept for Switzerland featuring fixed prices and goods displayed for all to see. However, financial troubles quickly led him to seek a backer. Banker Heinrich Burkhardt stepped in, acquiring the business and, in 1907, formally incorporating it as 'Magazine zum Globus AG', the official birth year of the Globus brand. For decades, Globus established itself as a premier Swiss retailer. A major ownership chapter began in 1997 when the Swiss retail giant Migros acquired the company. Under Migros, Globus continued its operations, known for its upscale offerings and the famous 'Delicatessa' food halls. A significant shift occurred in 2020. Migros sold Globus to a 50/50 joint venture between Austria's Signa Holding and Thailand's Central Group for approximately 1 billion Swiss francs. This move integrated Globus into a European family of luxury department stores including Rinascente and KaDeWe. Following financial turmoil and the collapse of Signa Holding, the story took another turn. In September 2024, Central Group acquired Signa's remaining stake, becoming the sole owner of the Globus department stores. This acquisition solidified Central Group's control over the operating business, positioning the historic Swiss brand within the portfolio of a global luxury retail powerhouse.