GESCHICHTE

On Christmas Day 1946, Migros’ legendary founder and his wife Adele transferred their enormous ‘Langhalden’ estate near Rüschlikon, comprising 4.5 hectares, to the ‘Im Grüene’ foundation. Their desire for an international institute for teaching and research to be constructed on this land one day is set out in the very first deed of foundation.

Duttweiler had passed away by the time the GDI – Switzerland’s first independent think tank – opened its doors in 1963. The institute soon made a name for itself outside the country, with its choices of topics often sparking controversy: a summit on shops opening late took place here as early as 1964, on cashless sales in retail in 1969, on the question of whether ‘our cities are drowning in traffic’ in 1970, and on organic farming in 1974.

In 1988, the building was expanded to include an office wing. A second expansion took place in 2008, when the institute gained an additional storey and its amenities underwent a comprehensive modernisation.

MIGROS CULTURE PERCENTAGE

The Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute generates revenue by selling its services in the fields of futurology, strategic innovation  and impact leadership, as well as by renting out its premises. In addition, the GDI receives financial support from the Migros Culture Percentage.

The Migros Culture Percentage is a voluntary Migros programme covering the fields of culture, society, education, leisure and economy. The concept behind the Culture Percentage can be traced back to Gottlieb Duttweiler: the Federation of Migros Cooperatives and the Migros Cooperatives themselves undertake to make an annual donation in his memory.