Key Feature Missing from New Swiss Army Knife: the Blade
Victorinox’s CEO has announced that the company is adapting to the increasing restrictions on knives, especially in the United Kingdom, citing concerns about violence.
The renowned maker of the Swiss Army Knife is planning to release a version of the product that will not include a blade.
According to Victorinox CEO Carl Elsener Jr., the decision to create a knifeless product is in response to the tightening regulations on knives.
He expressed worry about the laws in multiple countries, including the United Kingdom, where there have been proposals to further limit the possession of knives and other bladed tools.
Elserner hinted at a new “cool tool” being developed specifically for cyclists, although he did not provide specifics.
“We already have a tool designed for golfers. Cyclists may require specialized tools, but not necessarily a blade. The presence of a blade can create a weapon-like image in certain markets,” he explained.
Classic Versions Still Will Be Sold, Too
The CEO mentioned that the new bladeless tools will be a complement to the traditional Swiss Army Knife that includes a blade.
“In certain countries like England or some parts of Asia, carrying a knife is only allowed if it’s necessary for your job or outdoor activities,” Elsener further elaborated.
“However, in urban settings, such as when going to school, the cinema, or shopping, the restrictions on carrying pocket knives are quite severe.”
He noted that the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks highlighted the importance of diversifying the company’s product range.
Mentioning that sales of the Swiss Army Knife plummeted by over 30 percent after the attacks, Elsener did not specify a timeline for the release of the bladeless products.
It remains unclear if the proposed knifeless Swiss Army Knives will be available in the United States or solely in countries with stringent regulations like the United Kingdom.
Market as a “Swiss made pocket knife,” the bladeless product is currently out of stock.
The Victorinox company, established by Karl Elsener over 130 years ago, has been passed down through generations within the family. Initially created for Swiss army soldiers, the knives became available to the public in 1891.
In France, the product is known as the “Couteau Suisse,” while in Germany and Austria, it is referred to as the “Schweizer Messer.”
