We aim to double regional volumes in five years

The secret of the success of the Swiss banking industry lies in offering good products and taking a long-term view, according to a senior official at one of the world's oldest financial groups. Lombard Odier, a Swiss institution owned by eight families, has offered banking services since 1796 and claims to have weathered 40 financial crises in the intervening years. Anne-Marie de Weck, Managing Partner and one of the eight family heirs, says the Swiss firm has prospered by offering quality products rather than attracting large numbers of clients. During a visit to Abu Dhabi, she told Emirates Business that the banking sector had something in common that other Swiss speciality, chocolate – both needed a good mix of ingredients.

The Alps, chocolates and banks are what Switzerland is known for. The Alps speak for themselves, but what is the secret behind the success and fame of the chocolate and banks?

We will start with chocolate. Making chocolate is a question of mixing different things that work well together. It is a success when you have the right ingredients, prepare them well and present or serve the result in an appealing and impressive way.