Innovation

Innovation as the foundation for future growth

Geberit’s innovative strength, which is above average for the sector, is founded on its own, wide-ranging research and development (R&D) activities. In the reporting year, a total of CHF 74 million (previous year CHF 70 million) – or 2.4% of net sales – was invested in the development and improvement of products, processes and technologies. Additionally, as part of the investments in property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, considerable sums were invested in tools and equipment for the production of newly developed products. In the reporting year, 33 patents were applied for, in the last five years a total of 163 patents.

All product developments at Geberit go through an established innovation and development process, which ensures that the creative potential and know-how are used to the optimum extent and that development activities focus on the needs of the markets. Customer benefits, quality, sustainability and a system approach as well as the consistent strengthening of the brand are of central importance here.

Geberit has industry-leading expertise in the fields of virtual engineering, hydraulics, materials technology, sound insulation, statics, fire protection, hygiene, electronics, surface technology and process engineering. Thanks to continuous investments in the laboratory infrastructure, the scientists and engineers at Geberit have the very latest systems and technologies at their disposal. Worthy of particular mention here are the comprehensive simulation possibilities – for example, for statics, hydraulics and production processes – plus prototyping and various laboratories for materials technology, sanitary technology and building physics.

New products for Geberit markets worldwide

Among others, the following products were newly launched on the market in 2024:

• The new Geberit AquaClean Alba combines proven shower toilet technology, first-class flush performance and easy cleaning. Thanks to its attractive price, this shower toilet addresses new customer segments.
• Mapress Therm is a reasonably priced supply system for cooling and heating applications. It is made of low-alloy stainless steel, which is much cheaper than Mapress Stainless Steel while still being corrosion-resistant.
• With Silent-Pro SuperTube, the successful sound-insulating drainage system with optimised hydraulics – which has been primarily used in skyscrapers up to now – was also launched for multifamily and terraced houses. The system saves space and allows for room heights to be used to their full potential. Moreover, the planning of drainage systems is then easier and more flexible.
• The Geberit Mix & Match concept allows for different washbasins and furniture from the most important Geberit bathroom series (Geberit ONE, Acanto, iCon) to be combined freely. Standardised components also simplify the installation process.
• With Geberit Connect, sanitary facilities can be easily networked and then centrally operated and monitored – for example, through integration into a building automation system. Thanks to Connect, operators can ensure that drinking water hygiene is maintained and manage their installation with minimal effort, including the corresponding documentation. This saves both time and money.
• Geberit Bambini – child-friendly sanitary products for daycare centres and primary schools – is being launched in a new design. The Bambini toilets are also now available in a rimless design.

Several new product launches are planned for 2025. The most important of these centre around the WC System, which incorporates the following products:

• The new Duofix installation element offers added flexibility during installation thanks to a wide range of both new and further developed functions. Mounting is simpler and many work steps can be carried out more easily and quickly.
• The range of toilets equipped with TurboFlush technology is being constantly expanded. Additional Geberit models are now being equipped with the quiet yet powerful flush technology, which results in flush performance that is up to ten times better than that prescribed by standards.
• With the fill valve type 383, the perceptible noise when refilling the cistern has been reduced by half compared to its predecessor. The sound transmission to the room behind the cistern is also reduced. The goal of this product development was also to save resources, with less material and recycled plastic.
• The new Geberit Sigma40 actuator plate with round or square buttons is just 4 mm deep and sets new standards in terms of design. It is available in many high-quality materials and a wide variety of colours.

Other new products that will be launched on the market in 2025:

• The new urinal models Renova/Selnova S, M and L impress thanks to their outstanding installation technology, functionality and hygiene. Thanks to the new flush guide, a thorough flush is possible with just 0.5 litres of water – without an uncontrolled stream of flush water afterwards.
• The newly designed actuator plate for urinals type 40 will be launched at the same time as the Sigma40 actuator plate. It is also only 4 mm deep and comes in the same materials and colours as the actuator plate Sigma40.
• SuperTube – the space-saving solution for the safe and efficient drainage of high-rise buildings – is now also available in the highly sound-insulating model Silent-db20 SuperTube.