Zyliss

Zyliss as it is known today was founded by trained bicycle mechanic, Karl Zysset (1907-1998) in 1951.[2] The company launched its first product, the onion chopper, with the slogan "Zig-Zig Zyliss".[3] In 1982 the company was sold to two investors who in turn sold the operation in 1985 to the Diethelm Keller Holding Group.[2] In 2001, Zyliss partnered with the design firm, IDEO to develop a series of kitchen products that have gone on to see worldwide success.[4]

In the year 2003 the company reduced its number of employees from 105 to 80 and the company's management announced that the production site of Zyliss would be relocated. After a protest in Switzerland[5] the move was cancelled.[6][7] Most of the team moved to China during the mid-2000s.[7][8] The headquarters were also moved to Zurich in December 2005.[9] The company currently has 120 employees.[10]

Three notable inventions have been developed by Zyliss including the Garlic Press,[11] the Salad Spinner, and the Onion Chopper.[12][13] The "garlic susi" has an accompanying tool cleaner, and has been produced since the mid-20th century.[14] The company also began creating the Zyliss vise (a home improvement tool) in the 1970s[15] and has sold a slicing mandolin.[16] The company has worked with IDEO on projects including the salad spinner, specifically on the aesthetic and visual components.[17]