Gerhard Schubert The Schubert Days 2024 hailed a ‘resounding success’

The success of Gerhard Schubert’s invitation to customers and press representatives to its exclusive Schubert Days event at company headquarters, in Crailsheim on 5 and 6 June, has prompted the packaging machine manufacturer to establish this event as an ongoing, thought-provoking industry platform.

A total of 110 participants from 14 countries attended the many expert presentations given by high-calibre speakers. They also had an opportunity to take part in a tour of the new assembly hall – offering a wealth of information about packaging automation. The TLM packaging systems in operation were also on display with special lighting and music. There were many opportunities to discuss current developments, trends and challenges in the consumer goods industry.

 “We are especially delighted to have welcomed customers from a wide range of sectors, such as the food, confectionery, beverage and cosmetics industries,” reports Marcel Kiessling, managing director of Gerhard Schubert. Indeed, dialogue with customers, experts and multipliers is a key success factor for Schubert. “Only those who have a solid understanding of the market environment, challenges and needs of their customers can successfully develop customised packaging solutions,” Marcel Kiessling continues.

The Schubert Days agenda included a number of big-name speakers to offer insight and inspiration. One of the highlights was the presentation by Ralf Schubert, managing partner of Gerhard Schubert, who clearly showed that the company has not only been anticipating emerging technologies for decades, but also effectively bringing them to fruition. He took the guests on a journey back to the Schubert Future Forum in 2000, where his father Gerhard Schubert presented his very futuristic packaging machine concept. He then went on to present what Schubert is already achieving today, for example with the tog.519 Cobot and the use of AI.

The idea Ralf Schubert then presented on future automation solutions virtually turns the previous Schubert concept of an integrated, interface-free system on its head.

Ralf Schubert explains: “With this concept, we are making the packaging process adaptable without increasing the complexity of the machines. On the contrary, we are maximising simplicity for the user.”

The other presentations by keynote speakers also offered guests valuable insight into current issues the industry is facing.

Bestselling author, neurologist and psychotherapist Dr Volker Busch revealed how our brains make decisions in uncertain and unpredictable times.

Thomas Reiner, managing director of the Berndt & Partner Group, a management consultancy specialising in packaging design and sustainability, provided valuable insight into trends and developments in packaging design – pointing out the impact that various regulations will have on the packaging industry.

Stefan Krumme, business development manager transparency at Amazon Germany, also addressed a key topic in the industry – how e-commerce is influencing packaging design. Another highlight was the joint presentation by Gerhard Bart, managing director of transaction network, and Schubert expert Sarah Busch, head of customer training, on “How digitalisation and digital platforms can help tackle the challenges of today’s skills shortage”.

Marcel Kiessling adds: “Following the Schubert Days, we conducted an online survey among the participants and received very positive feedback on both the presentation line-up and the keynote content. Many are also interested in a follow-up that would address topics such as ‘Digitalisation and automation’, ‘The role of robotics’, ‘Schubert’s visions’ and ‘The future of packaging machines’, which we would be happy to offer at upcoming Schubert Days.”

In addition to the presentations, participants had an opportunity to visit Schubert’s recently completed new premises – consisting of an assembly hall and office complex.

The investment represents a significant step towards a sustainable future for Schubert in three respects. Not only does the company now have 30 per cent more space for final assembly and a state-of-the-art working environment for over 300 employees, the buildings are also 100 per cent carbon-neutral. These are all factors that bring the packaging machine manufacturer closer to achieving its ambitious goals in the context of its Mission Blue Sustainability Initiative. Visitors were impressed with the state-of-the-art premises and climate-friendly design. They also enjoyed the office building’s rooftop terrace – with its integrated fireplace and outstanding view – which serves as an attractive gathering place for employees to spend time during breaks, after work and events.

Expressing pleasure with the first Schubert Days, Marcel Kiessling concluded: “The high number of participants and the feedback we received from our customers on this new industry event speak for themselves. We most definitely intend to continue with this format in the future.”

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