bb Insight
Writing culture made in
Switzerland:
bb on factory tour at Prodir.
Factory visit at Prodir:
Where Swiss precision is made.
After a long time, the moment had finally arrived again:
Part of the bb team had the opportunity to take a behind-the-scenes look at Prodir, one of Switzerland’s leading manufacturers of Swiss Made ballpoint pens. Over two days, we visited three production sites in beautiful Ticino and gained fascinating insights into the value chain of a product that may seem simple at first glance – but is, in fact, a true high-tech tool.
As one of the largest suppliers of Prodir ballpoint pens in the Swiss promotional products market, we are excited to now share this expertise with our clients and further base our advice on facts, experiences and personal insights.
Factory Report:
Two days of experiencing Swiss Made.
Day 1:
Tooling, injection molding & color expertise
Our factory visit began in the tooling department, where the foundation for all Prodir logo ballpoint pens is created. The molds for producing clips, barrels, and tips are made directly at Prodir! A real highlight, as tools are typically outsourced.
Next, we moved on to the injection molding production, where millions of parts are created with state-of-the-art machines – precisely, quickly, and sustainably.
We were particularly impressed by Prodir’s in-house plastic color production: Prodir produces the colors for the cases and components themselves. This guarantees complete control over quality – a major advantage for customized promotional product solutions. Swiss Engineering at its best!
Day 2:
Pad printing, ink, ball & assembling
The second day took us to the printing, assembly, and research departments. Using highly automated pad printing systems, company logos are applied with the highest quality – clean, durable, and customized.
The absolute highlight: the production of the ball and tip. These delicate components are made in-house at Prodir and are crucial to the writing experience. True Swiss precision.
The ink and refill production is also impressive: Not only are the ink colors developed in-house, but the finished refills are of such high quality that they are even used in other brand pens and exported to Asia – Swiss Made, internationally sought after.
Finally, we visited the assembling and R&D departments, where the models are assembled and writing qualities as well as sustainable material concepts are developed. With plenty of innovation and attention to detail, Prodir continuously drives the development of the Swiss ballpoint pen forward – we love it!
Breathtaking:
What impressed us.
- The consistent Swiss Made production from tooling to logo printing.
- The in-house development and production of material colors, inks, tips, balls, etc.
- The high level of automation.
- The spirit of innovation in product development and research.
- The focus on sustainability – from the use of recycled materials to the recycling of waste, some directly in production.
- The pride in a high-quality writing instrument made in Switzerland – palpable among both staff and management.
Conclusion:
Our visit to Prodir has further heightened our enthusiasm for the product and the brand. What is created here is not just a ballpoint pen – it is a high-quality promotional item that perfectly combines functionality, design, and Swiss quality.
We look forward to incorporating the knowledge gained into our daily consultations – and to finding the perfect Prodir promotional products for our clients’ brand messages.
Simply wow!
Sustainability begins with writing.
Prodir sets new standards with innovative materials – all standard housings are made of at least 50% recycled and/or regenerated ABS, with black and white models even up to 100%. Additionally, Prodir offers smart material alternatives with an even greater focus on environmental friendliness.
True Biotic (PHA)
Unique to Prodir: The world’s first writing instrument made from PHA biopolymers – 100% biobased, biodegradable, and completely free of plastics. PHA is naturally produced by microorganisms – a true highlight in terms of sustainability!
Biotic (PLA)
Biobased plastic from renewable resources that is even biodegradable in natural environments. A smart and cost-effective solution for entering the world of sustainable promotional products – ideal for those looking to combine eco-friendly materials with strong value for money.
Shell
Writing instruments made from a special material mix: 50% locally recycled plastic + 30% recycled seashells. A successful example of upcycling with local responsibility.
Stone
60% less plastic, yet with mineral-enriched material for a pleasant, high-quality writing feel. More weight, less plastic – the perfect balance.
Air
A true lightweight: The airy structure of the QS40 series allows for a reduction of around 60% plastic. Less material – more sustainability!
Recycling Plus
Molecular recycling for ABS plastic saves up to 40% CO₂ emissions – perfect for companies focused on environmental impact.
