Swiss Army Knife Maker Working on New Range Without Blades – Here’s Why
"In some markets, the blade creates an image of a weapon," Victorinox CEO Carl Elsener said
A Swiss Army Knife is well-known for being an all-in-one item essential, but the company that owns the brand has announced they're working on a new range that will be missing one important item: a blade.
During an interview with Swiss outlet Blick, Victorinox CEO Carl Elsener cited a rise in legislation that bans or regulates carrying knives as a main reason the company has decided to develop models without a blade.
“We’re concerned about the increasing regulation of knives due to the violence in the world,” Elsener said, according to The Guardian and Fox Business. “In some markets, the blade creates an image of a weapon."
In a number of countries, the CEO explained that "you are sometimes only allowed to carry a knife if you need to have it to do your job or operate outdoors."
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Elsener went on to say their new tools are designed with outdoor activities in mind, according to The Guardian, and could be particularly "useful for cyclists."
"Cyclists have a need for specific tools but not necessarily a blade," added the CEO. "We already have a tool specifically for golfers.
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Victorinox did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
In a statement obtained by Fox Business, the company made it clear that the new models are just an addition to the company's line of products, and not a replacement.
"We are in the early stages of developing new pocket tools without blades. These will not be replacing our assortment of Swiss Army Knives but will be additions to our product offering," read a statement from Victorinox.
The new additions "will ensure you are best prepared through smart and masterful solutions for any life situation," the company added.
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