PIA
Innovative processing
PIA (Production Extension and Innovation Einbeck) is a project aimed at expanding and modernizing processing of sugarbeet seed at Einbeck at a cost of almost €50 million. The treatment and packaging plant, the third of four sections, was put into operation in the fall. Some of our colleagues tell us more.
Andree Fischer (on the left in the photo) and Jan Steckel are part of the team that controls the machines. They have accompanied commissioning of them for more than half a year and are now familiarizing their colleagues with the processes: “We probably know every single screw in the place by now. Together with the programmers and electricians, we got up to speed on the processes, asked hundreds of questions, but also made suggestions for improvement. We learned a lot in that time. Such as to stay calm and exude confidence, even in tricky situations.” |
Joris van Dort, Manager Technical Innovation & Support, emphasizes a special aspect: Many of KWS’ own developments are installed in the new seed production plant. “Our vision from the outset was to use a system for applying active substances that is as flexible as possible so that multiple formulations can be processed simultaneously – and one that also eliminates residues almost completely and saves resources. Since such solutions were not available on the market, the pigging system was developed by KWS on its own and with the help of a number of outside firms. The high-bay warehouse and the camera systems that monitor varietal purity are also a genuine innovation compared to existing production systems.” |
Cord Bachmann, Team Lead at Sugarbeet Seed Processing, has accompanied the plant’s expansion and modernization since the first planning sessions: “I was always impressed by how many players were involved in this project: from construction management, the workshop, the Legal department to the large number of suppliers, and building, trade inspection and certification authorities. It’s hugely important to maintain a constant dialogue, explain matters and look at things from different perspectives.” |
Michael Scholz, Head of Sugarbeet Seed Processing, notes: “It’s the biggest project I personally have had the honor of working on at KWS to date. We began in 2016 and, of course, we’ve had our ups and downs in that time. The recent restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic, as well as the uncertainty as to approval of neonics, have beleaguered us and mean we have to keep on being flexible in our planning. But now it’s great to see the plant up and running after five years of development. We’ve already produced seed for the German and Chinese markets, for example, and are very satisfied with its quality. We’ll soon take the next step forward and switch from two to three shifts.” |
And all concur about one thing: “The collaboration across all departments was excellent – we all pulled together in the same direction to get this important investment for KWS off the ground. A big thank-you to everyone who chipped in!” |
Andree Fischer (on the left in the photo) and Jan Steckel are part of the team that controls the machines. They have accompanied commissioning of them for more than half a year and are now familiarizing their colleagues with the processes: “We probably know every single screw in the place by now. Together with the programmers and electricians, we got up to speed on the processes, asked hundreds of questions, but also made suggestions for improvement. We learned a lot in that time. Such as to stay calm and exude confidence, even in tricky situations.” |
Joris van Dort, Manager Technical Innovation & Support, emphasizes a special aspect: Many of KWS’ own developments are installed in the new seed production plant. “Our vision from the outset was to use a system for applying active substances that is as flexible as possible so that multiple formulations can be processed simultaneously – and one that also eliminates residues almost completely and saves resources. Since such solutions were not available on the market, the pigging system was developed by KWS on its own and with the help of a number of outside firms. The high-bay warehouse and the camera systems that monitor varietal purity are also a genuine innovation compared to existing production systems.” |
Cord Bachmann, Team Lead at Sugarbeet Seed Processing, has accompanied the plant’s expansion and modernization since the first planning sessions: “I was always impressed by how many players were involved in this project: from construction management, the workshop, the Legal department to the large number of suppliers, and building, trade inspection and certification authorities. It’s hugely important to maintain a constant dialogue, explain matters and look at things from different perspectives.” |
Michael Scholz, Head of Sugarbeet Seed Processing, notes: “It’s the biggest project I personally have had the honor of working on at KWS to date. We began in 2016 and, of course, we’ve had our ups and downs in that time. The recent restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic, as well as the uncertainty as to approval of neonics, have beleaguered us and mean we have to keep on being flexible in our planning. But now it’s great to see the plant up and running after five years of development. We’ve already produced seed for the German and Chinese markets, for example, and are very satisfied with its quality. We’ll soon take the next step forward and switch from two to three shifts.” |
And all concur about one thing: “The collaboration across all departments was excellent – we all pulled together in the same direction to get this important investment for KWS off the ground. A big thank-you to everyone who chipped in!” |
© KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA 2025
