Philippe Bardet is the Agro-Star Suisse 2025

"Philippe Bardet has represented Gruyère AOP in a way that has contributed to its success.”

Pietro Beritelli, president of the Agro-Star Suisse jury

“Philippe Bardet is a proactive individual who values authenticity and tradition while also understanding market dynamics,” says Prof. Dr. Pietro Beritelli, president of the Agro-Star Suisse jury and vice director of the Institute for Systematic Management and Public Governance at the University of St. Gallen. The jury unanimously selected Bardet as the award winner in recognition of his 28 years leading the Interprofession du Gruyère AOP (IPG).

Thanks to his initiative, Gruyère AOP gained international recognition, particularly in Europe and the USA. In the 1990s, he played a key role in the establishment of the AOP status. Today, Gruyère AOP is the best-selling and best-known protected cheese from Switzerland. “Philippe Bardet has represented Gruyère AOP in a way that has contributed to its success,” emphasises Prof. Dr. Beritelli. “With energy and adaptability, he has demonstrated that Swiss agricultural products can achieve global success.”

The presentation of the Agro-Star Suisse 2025 award not only honours Philippe Bardet’s many years of commitment but also marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in his career. After leading the Interprofession du Gruyère AOP (IPG) for 28 years, he will soon retire.

Agro-Star Suisse

Every year, the Agro-Star Suisse is awarded to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to Swiss agriculture. The Agro-Star Suisse award ceremony is held annually as part of the opening ceremony of Tier&Technik. The prize is organised by the trade journal Schweizer Bauer and supported by Mobiliar.