Working Capital Management Study 2021 – In search of the new normal

“What is normal in times like these?” This question hasn’t just concerned the general public during the COVID-19 crisis. Coronavirus-related effects have also been a big issue for finance and supply chain managers in managing their working capital.

The range of challenges facing Swiss companies – both now and in the future – in relation to working capital management (WCM) are quite manifold. While some companies faced liquidity bottlenecks that jeopardized their future, others met unprecedented demand by using partially modified business models, where funding also poses challenges for managers. This requires the management of working capital to be versatile and adaptable.

The eighth edition of the WCM Study focuses on this need for realignment. It provides answers to the following questions: How has the management of payables and receivables changed during the COVID-19 crisis in retrospect? What is the current liquidity situation in Swiss companies? And what future trends and developments are expected in WCM? The tendencies identified regarding the future structure of WCM provide an indication of the new normal and serve as a source of inspiration for finance and supply chain managers.