Between tradition and modernity

A pleasant surprise awaits visitors who cross the threshold of the Hauser company in Schaffhausen. In the large, welcoming and bright room, tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. On a smooth floor covering with colorful design, small tables illustrate different painting techniques sit alongside objects that bear witness to the company's past, such as the founder's original outfit, 20th century account books or old jars of painting.

This showroom, where the owner Thomas Hauser and his team exhibit their know-how, also presents some rare objects, illustrations of a long tradition. Antiques adorn this large room, in operation for 120 years. Thomas Hauser belongs to the fourth generation of managers of this family business. But as proud as he is of the richness of his history, he himself is completely anchored in modernity. He is convinced that the past does not play a major role in his current success.

“It does not matter to our customers that we are more than a century old. It's every day that we have to prove ourselves by doing a good job." Thomas Hauser, master painter at Hauser

When he took over from his father 20 years ago, he reflected on the future direction of the company, which he wanted to expand. "We offer our customers common paint work, but also provide floor coverings, mold treatment, facades restoration, spray work and even gilding," he explains. These different specialties are often linked, so he can provide more comprehensive advice and a wide range of services to make life easier for clients. "For us, this generates an additional volume of work and makes our job even more exciting," adds Thomas.

A multipurpose room

In his showroom, he exhibits floor coverings, presents wallpaper catalogues and sells paint, and sometimes uses the space to for client events. “Once a year, we organize aperitifs for our customers. We start with a talk on an interesting topic, like maintaining hardwood floors or designing the lighting in a room, and then end with an aperitif." Very popular with customers, these events attract nearly 80 people each time. “Most of the participants come from the surrounding area, know each other and take the opportunity to meet and chat.” For Thomas Hauser, these events are a long-term investment in his clients.

Either way, this leader entrepreneur has a long-term vision. “It is important for me to give my clients the best possible advice and to find an optimal and lasting solution with them. There are times where I present them with an option that may not result in any orders, but which I am convinced is the best solution. If customers are happy with my advice, they will surely come to me again at another time,” he adds confidently.

"It is important for me to give my clients the best possible advice and to find an optimal and lasting solution with them."- Thomas Hauser, master painter

Even though he is still ten years away from retirement, Thomas Hauser is already concerned about his succession, proof of his commitment to the future of his business. His children, both in their twenties, are under no pressure to take over the business. “If either of them is up for it, great. Otherwise, I will find another solution. The main thing is that my successor has a passion for the job," he says.

While waiting to hand over the baton, Thomas continues to be in step with the times: with regular visits to trade fairs to find new ideas, a modern digital tool for recording working time, a solar panel on the roof of the building, an electric cargo bike and even an Instagram account. This proves that tradition and modernity go hand in hand.