The 81st General Meeting of strasseschweiz brought a double change at the top. Peter Grünenfelder of auto-schweiz takes over the presidency from Daniel Hofer. In addition, the 41-year-old lawyer Henri Bernhard will head the Bern-based umbrella organisation from June 2026.
strasseschweiz with new dual leadership: Grünenfelder and Bernhard take over
At the 81st General Meeting in Altishofen (Lucerne), the umbrella organisation of road transport completed a double personnel change. The members elected Peter Grünenfelder, Director of auto-schweiz, as the new President. At the same time, lawyer Henri Bernhard takes over operational management. With this move, strasseschweiz relies on proven expertise and political experience.
New presidency: Continuity at the top of the association
Grünenfelder will serve as President for the 2026–2027 term. He receives support from Councillor of States Thierry Burkart (ASTAG) as Vice-President. National Councillor Simone Gianini (ACS) acts as second Vice-President. The outgoing President Daniel Hofer of Avenergy Suisse handed over his office in accordance with the rotation principle. The members expressly acknowledged his commitment during the past association year.
Verkehr 45: Road infrastructure as a location factor
The past association year was strongly shaped by the «Verkehr 45′» proposal. Hofer stated: «Efficient infrastructure is the central prerequisite for prosperity and economic development.» Consequently, road infrastructure remains a key political dossier. Without functioning transport routes, security of supply comes under pressure.
Lawyer Henri Bernhard: New Managing Director from 1 June 2026
With Henri Bernhard, a proven expert takes over operational management. The 41-year-old lawyer will consistently continue the association’s strategic priorities. He explained to the members: «I will work for continuity.» Moreover, he is convinced: «The road will continue to play a decisive role for the population and the economy.»
Change after eight years: Olivier Fantino moves to Avenergy Suisse
His predecessor Olivier Fantino leaves strasseschweiz after eight successful years. In future, he will manage Avenergy Suisse. Nevertheless, he remains part of the strasseschweiz Executive Board. Since the restructuring in 2017, Fantino has positioned the association as a central voice towards politics and authorities. He looks back on his term of office with gratitude.
Keynote address and visit to Galliker AG
Yves Bichsel, Secretary General of DETEC, enriched the meeting with a keynote address. Subsequently, the attendees visited Galliker AG in Altishofen. The logistics company plays a central role in Switzerland’s security of supply.
Who is the new President of strasseschweiz?
Peter Grünenfelder, Director of auto-schweiz, was elected President at the 81st General Meeting in Altishofen. His term of office runs from 2026 to 2027.
Who is taking over operational management of strasseschweiz?
The 41-year-old lawyer Henri Bernhard will take office as Managing Director on 1 June 2026. He succeeds Olivier Fantino.
Why is Olivier Fantino leaving strasseschweiz?
Fantino is taking over the management of Avenergy Suisse. However, he remains a member of the strasseschweiz Executive Board, thereby ensuring personal continuity.
