Bickel Auto AG
M&A, Entrepreneurial Successions, Sell Side Advisory

Consumer Goods and Retail

2026

Sale of Bickel Auto to the Hess Automobile Group

Bickel Auto AG has arranged its succession and is handing over the business to HESS Automobile Group AG as of 1 April 2026. After approximately 20 years of successful operations, Beatrice and Andreas Bickel proactively and deliberately addressed the future of their company.

The primary objective was to find a solution that ensures the long-term continuation of the business, solid prospects for employees, and seamless continuity for customers. With HESS Automobile Group AG, a partner was found that meets these requirements and enables sustainable further development: the locations in Frauenfeld and Weinfelden will be retained and will continue to operate under their established name. All approximately 80 employees and apprentices will be taken on. To ensure a smooth transition, the Bickel family will remain actively involved in the business until the end of the year.

"We pay tribute to Béatrice and Andreas Bickel for the company they have built and are proud to welcome all employees into our group. [...] We thank BMW Switzerland for their renewed trust."
Anthony and Jonathan Hess, Managing Directors, HESS Automobile

With this acquisition, Hess Automobile AG is taking a further step in its expansion strategy in Switzerland. Both locations will be modernised in line with the BMW Retail.Next concept. The aim is to strategically enhance showrooms, the customer experience and digital offerings, while actively supporting the introduction of new models, including the iX3.

TCFG acted as Lead Advisor to Bickel Auto in close collaboration with KEAdvice.

Source: Press release by Hess Automobile Group AG (de)