Our history: 25 years of innovation and growth
Optec was founded in 2000 with the vision of developing innovative solutions for technical challenges. What began as a small company has developed over the years into a leading provider in the fields of energy management, electrical safety, hospital and medical technology and electromobility. However, an important moment in our history was the meeting of the Muffler family, the founders of Optec, and Eugen Janitza. This took place during a ride on the T-bar lift in Laax - a chance meeting that marked the beginning of a long-standing collaboration.
1998: Foundation stone
The foundation stone for the establishment of Optec was laid in December 1998. At the time, the Muffler family never dared to dream that a joint ride on a T-bar lift in Flims/Laax with Mr. Eugen Janitza would be the start of it all. It was this ride on the T-bar lift and the subsequent acquaintance that led to the collaboration with Andreas Muffler's employer at the time.
2000: The favor of the hour
The collaboration with Janitza and Andreas Muffler's employer was short-lived. The end of the agency was the beginning for the Muffler family. On August 1, 2000, they founded Optec GmbH within their own four walls.
2001: Collaboration with HT, the art of measurement
HT recognized Optec's potential early on and decided to change its distribution partner for Switzerland. Just a few months later, in 2001, HT entered into a partnership with Optec. This expanded the product range to include measuring and testing devices - from current clamps to installation testers.
2001: A first move
When the packing material started to peek out from under the bed and no more space could be found, new office space was urgently needed. An empty condominium in the same apartment building became the new headquarters of Optec GmbH.
2007: New representation
The company Herholdt with its ECS energy meter complemented the product range very well and the portfolio was taken over.
2009: Major move to Wetzikon
Bäretswil had become too small for the now 8 employees. At the same time, the cooperation with the Bender company began. Within a very short time, the number of employees rose to 15.
2010: From the GmbH to the AG
With over 20 employees, Optec had become a small SME. The office and field staff were busy optimizing processes and meeting customer requirements. In addition, a TechCenter was set up in the same year.
in 2010, the GmbH became an AG.
2015: Susan Muffler retires from the management board
After 15 years, Susan Muffler left Optec. Omar Seijo, now a member of the management team, took over some shares and became Managing Director together with Andreas Muffler.
2016: Sale to Bender
The Bender company was on a strong expansion course and wanted to have its own subsidiary in all the countries in which it operated. Andreas Muffler sold his shares to Bender. The name Optec was retained and all employees were taken over.
Optec has always been fascinated by innovations and new ideas. After a comprehensive study of the market, the management decided to open a fourth business area with e-mobility.
2018: Retreat and a new beginning
Andreas Muffler's time as Managing Director of Optec AG ended with a trip around the world. Just as he once started, he continues to look after our customers today and will remain with Optec. Omar Seijo is the sole Managing Director of Optec AG and looks after the Bender Group company in Switzerland.
2021: New management team
Omar Seijo and Dominic Locher form the new management of Optec AG. In the same year, Optec AG expanded its portfolio to include surgical lights from Merivaara in order to offer customers in the medical sector a comprehensive range.
2025
25 years of Optec AG – a quarter of a century of innovation and commitment to our customers. We have grown continuously over the past few years and now have 44 employees.