Claudia and Toni – Half a Century Together at Fred Tschanz

How did you join Fred Tschanz in 1998 and 1999, respectively?

Claudia: Back then, I didn’t have a C-permit, unlike my husband. So, we got married. However, my previous employer didn’t renew my contract. I applied at Fred Tschanz – and the rest is history.

Toni: I used to work in Zermatt, which I always felt was the farthest corner of Switzerland. A former colleague, Angela Stevens, was the deputy hotel manager at Fred Tschanz at the time. When Fred Tschanz took over the former Walhalla (now Fred Hotel), she asked if I wanted to take the receptionist position. I immediately said yes.

What do you remember from that time?

Toni: This dynamic city hotel near the main station was a big change for me. Most communication was still done via phone and fax, and emails were just starting to emerge. Even back then, I found the work very diverse.

Claudia: I first worked at the hotel on Leonhardstrasse, mainly in room service. Later, I also worked at the hotel near the main station, which provided variety. When I had children a few years later, I was very relieved that it wasn’t an issue. My bosses were always considerate, and I could adjust my shifts to fit around childcare.

How has your work changed over the years?

Toni: I also started a family over the years, and I had a similar experience. I liked working weekend shifts to take care of the kids during the week while my wife pursued further education. Other than the digital transformation, my job has remained largely the same.

Claudia: I’ve taken on new responsibilities over the years, such as room checks and occasionally working breakfast service. Over time, new people have joined, but I’ve always gotten along well with everyone.

What do you especially value about your job?

Toni: There are three key things for me: First, the variety in my tasks, time flies here. Second, my team feels like a second family, with a strong sense of unity. Third, we receive a lot of recognition from management, and our operations and working conditions are continuously modernized. Not many businesses keep up with such developments.

Claudia: We have a great team, and I feel very comfortable here. I’ve always felt respected and appreciated by the housekeeping supervisors and my bosses. I also enjoy events like the summer party, where you can meet staff from other branches and their families.

What are your wishes for the future?

Claudia: (laughs loudly) Maybe another pay raise!

Toni: Unfortunately, I’ll be retiring next year. While I’m looking forward to having more time for cycling, hiking, reading books, or trying out new recipes, I don’t plan to completely step away. I love my job, and I want to stay connected with my team. I hope I can stay a little longer!