How it all began

All beginnings are easy. In 1833 Peter Jelmoli-Ciolina managed to achieve something in life that was out of the ordinary, and he did this in the most incredible way. His idea was to found a department store offering goods for fixed prices that were not open to haggling. With this concept, which was revolutionary for its time, he opened the Jelmoli department store and introduced a new era in shopping. The department store quickly became one of the most successful establishments in Zurich.

Today, Jelmoli is the largest and most innovative department store in Switzerland. Over 8 impressive floors, it offers a breathtaking assortment of about 2 million articles from over 1000 of the most highly sought-after brands in the world. It also includes a huge range of services which up to now have been unique amongst department stores. More than 1000 highly-qualified employees provide a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, the best advice, and an unforgettable shopping experience.

The future of Jelmoli is also in the best hands. Because of the recent takeover by the property management company Swiss Prime Site AG in the fall of 2009, it will be able to continue its development as the leading premium department store in Switzerland. The first step was taken in the form of extensive renovations and followed by an opening ceremony in October 2010. It was a glamorous start to a new journey through time, on which we like to you to accompany us...

Did you know that Jelmoli …

	… founded the modern mail order business 176 years ago? In fact, Jelmoli was the first department store to send goods and samples out in cardboard boxes which were unknown at the time. In the year 1897, the first mail order catalog appeared.
	… was the first modern department store in all of Zurich? The impressive glass palace was built in the year 1898. At the time of the opening, Jelmoli only had 72 employees.
	… is celebrating its 177th birthday? Celebrate with us - as part of our reopening in October 2010. We are delighted that so many of our customers have remained true to us over recent years, and we are looking forward to seeing many new faces.