We, and thus our entire family business, are characterized by our values, which should always and everywhere be noticeable. This applies to investors who want to achieve a measurable positive impact for nature and people with their impact investment, as well as to companies and private individuals who want to protect the climate and promote biodiversity through reforestation and forest conservation.

We prove that commercial interests and nature conservation are by no means mutually exclusive by linking these two topics in a purposeful manner. Earning something with a sustainable investment or strengthening the bond with customers and partners as a company thanks to a proven commitment to nature conservation ultimately generates multiple added value for everyone.

A promise of return for investors or a guarantee for supporters that the conservation projects will always achieve all the ambitious goals would not be serious, but we promise you that your investment in trees or your financed reforestation and forest conservation projects are personally close to our hearts, just like the local people.

Our business model is based on mutual respect, trust, honesty, authenticity, transparency and reliability. The personal relationship with our customers and business partners therefore means a lot to us. Under the heading Trust you will find helpful and brief explanations of how we implement our philosophy.

Arbofino AG, founded in 2014, is a pure family business based in Männedorf, Switzerland. In addition, there are two wholly owned subsidiaries in Ecuador. Arbofino Tierra Ecuador SA is the owner of the fincas and does not carry out any operational activities. Arbofino Ecuador SA is responsible for all operational business in Ecuador and manages the plantations.

For our Reforestation and Forest Conservation concept, whose projects are pure nature reserves, we have founded the non-profit Bosquefino Foundation in Ecuador (the establishment is close to completion – because of the Corona situation the process had been delayed). It owns the land, called «Reservas», where these projects are implemented. You can read more about the foundation in the section Bosquefino Foundation.

Dominic Ziegler, founder and CEO:

 “Here I am human, here I am allowed to be!” At the beginning of my professional career, I was involved in building up another young company. In the last few years, I have had the pleasure of establishing my own company. In doing so, I can confidently observe how, after graduating in business administration, topics of my young professional dreams of forestry, biology and environmental sciences have quietly become part of my everyday life.

 My previous experience as managing director of an internationally active environmental foundation as well as my WWF diploma in environmental consulting help me to consistently implement my sustainability claim. My first step into the world of teak was as head of marketing of a current competitor. During that time, I not only gained a comprehensive insight into the industry, but also discovered areas that I wanted to implement in my own way and in my own company. My heart now beats twice for Ecuador, new for the Arbofino projects and for years for my wife’s home country. I am proud that Arbofino is a pure family business, which allows to make the philosophy and conviction tangible at any time.

Beatriz: Head of Administration

My recommendation
Visit your trees and combine it with a trip to Ecuador. Insider tips? Anytime with pleasure!

What I wanted to say
What I will never understand with the Swiss: How can you enjoy a meal on the terrace in freezing temperatures!

My conviction
Honesty makes you free.

Matías: Supervisor

My recommendation
Stick to agreements and look for amicable solutions.

What I still wanted to say
When the boss is on site, catch her the biggest fish. That gives extra points!

My conviction
Fight with each other, not against each other.

Barbara: CAO – Chief Animal Officer

My recommendation
Do not look away but act when animals are treated badly!

What I still wanted to say
You can rely on Yumar to treat our mules, horses, pigs, chickens and dogs well even when we are not there.

My conviction
Talking is silver, set an example is gold!

Christoph Ziegler (Präsident)

Hotelier, management consultancy, individual and team coaching

“I quickly sensed that my son was not going for the trivial realization of an idealized dream, but rather with the willingness to follow through on his philosophy and values in all consistency. In this intercontinental endeavour I realized how valuable it is to be at home in both cultures. To speak the language fluently is one thing, to understand the cultural values and ways of thinking something else. We are pleased to see that our local employees have not only understood many elements of sustainability but are already applying them. We are also pleased with the impressive growth of the trees. I see my confidence in the project fully confirmed and share the gratifying echoes from our investors with the greatest satisfaction. A piece of nature you can touch is a contemporary gift! If not to yourself, then certainly to your loved ones.

Dominic Ziegler

Entrepreneur, Business Economist FH, Environmental Consultant (Diploma WWF), MBA Sustainability Management (in study)

Founder and CEO Arbofino

“To me, Arbofino is more than just a company. It’s about passion for the projects, emotions for the country and its people, and the joy of interacting with customers. Like many financial market players, various providers of tangible assets do not always have the best reputation. This is unfortunate for those who are correct and transparent. The important thing is to remain realistic and communicate openly. The potential of trees is undisputed, and we are convinced that one is rewarded for patience. We cannot influence everything, but where we can, we leave nothing to chance”.

Our fincas are located on the coastal side of the Andes, about three hours inland from the sea. From Quito they can be reached by car in about 6.5 hours and from Guayaquil in 3.5 hours. The hilly land of this area is characterized by cattle breeding and small-scale agriculture. The pasture land with its introduced high and strong grass dominates the landscape. Besides ranching, corn, cacao and rice are the most cultivated agricultural products. Particularly valuable for the local biodiversity are the small areas of secondary forest left on the steep slopes of the hills and partly along the creeks and rivers.

Fincas location