As part of the educational programme within the PACK IT project, Ukrainian and German students jointly visited several production facilities of Schwarz Produktion associated with Lidl production systems. The excursion, organized with the support of Prof. Stefan Junge, provided participants with a unique opportunity to observe modern industrial production processes, automation technologies, quality control systems, and large-scale logistics solutions used in contemporary food manufacturing.
During the visit, students explored different production areas where various food products were manufactured and packaged. One of the most impressive parts of the excursion was the ice cream production facility, where participants observed automated filling systems, freezing technologies, packaging lines, and quality control procedures. Students were particularly interested in the speed and precision of fully automated production processes.
The group also visited chocolate production facilities, where company specialists introduced ingredient preparation processes, temperature control systems, molding technologies, and automated packaging solutions. The students could clearly see how modern production lines combine advanced automation with continuous quality monitoring.
Another important stop of the excursion was the nut packaging facility. Here, students learned about sorting technologies, weight control systems, vacuum packaging, and logistics organization. The visit demonstrated how sensors and automated systems are used to ensure packaging accuracy, product safety, and production efficiency.
At the bakery production facilities, participants observed industrial baking systems, dough preparation technologies, automated ovens, cooling systems, and packaging processes. The students especially noted the high level of cleanliness, organization, and technological coordination required for large-scale food production.
Beyond the technical aspects, the excursion created valuable opportunities for intercultural exchange and professional communication between Ukrainian and German students. Visiting production facilities together encouraged discussions about engineering approaches, industrial standards, sustainability, and future career opportunities in international manufacturing environments.
After returning to Berlin, the programme also included cultural activities and excursions organized together with Prof. Nataliia Zaiets and Prof. Stefan Junge. The students participated in a guided city tour, visited the German Bundestag, enjoyed a boat tour through Berlin, and explored the historical palaces Glienicke Palace and Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam. These activities gave participants the opportunity to learn more about German history and culture while strengthening communication and connections within the international student group.
The visit to Schwarz Produktion became an important part of the PACK IT educational programme, strengthening the connection between academic learning and industrial practice while helping students gain international professional experience and broaden their understanding of modern manufacturing technologies.





