Galaxus to take over the online business of Ex Libris

As Switzerland's leading online retailer, Galaxus will take over responsibility for online book retail within the Migros Group and thus the activities of Ex Libris, Switzerland's largest online bookseller. The two companies are laying the technical, logistical and product range-specific foundations for the seamless and complete transfer of the online business. This process is set to be completed by mid-2027. In preparation, the 15 remaining Ex Libris stores will be closed by the end of 2026.

Change in management

In the course of the transformation, Daniel Röthlin, longstanding CEO of Ex Libris, will retire. During the integration phase, Ex Libris will be managed by Head of Finance Stephan Koller and Chief Commercial Officer Rafael Schenker in close cooperation with Digitec Galaxus. "Drawing on his expertise and extensive specialist knowledge, Daniel Röthlin has successfully transformed Ex Libris from a bricks-and-mortar retailer into Switzerland's largest online bookseller. I would like to thank Daniel Röthlin for his excellent collaboration and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement," says Michel Gruber, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ex Libris and Head of Retail at the Federation of Migros Cooperatives.

Impact on employees

The transfer will affect 230 employees at Ex Libris. Unfortunately, headcount reductions cannot be ruled out. Wherever possible, the affected employees will be offered a new position within the Migros Group and will be provided with support from HR and specialist partners in their search for an external position. The Migros Group has finalised a comprehensive national redundancy package with internal and external social partners in order to cushion the impact of redundancies to the greatest extent possible. Employees made redundant will receive individual benefits linked to their length of service and age, among other factors. The final decision will be made based on the outcome of the ongoing consultation procedure.

No impact on customers or partners

Customers can place orders as usual via exlibris.ch and galaxus.ch. The range of books and user experience on Galaxus will be further improved in collaboration with Ex Libris over the course of 2026. Suppliers and partners will be closely supported during the transition phase.

The future of book retailing within the Migros Group

"Over the past decades, Ex Libris has built up an impressive product range and expertise in the category of books. Together with Galaxus' reach and user-friendly online shop, we can offer customers an optimal shopping experience," says Florian Teuteberg, CEO of Digitec Galaxus.