The investment will modernise Lieken’s production infrastructure, expand manufacturing capacity and introduce advanced automation across its German operations.
Czech conglomerate Agrofert Group has announced an investment of approximately €70 million (US$81.2 million) in its German baking subsidiary Lieken, as part of a wider capital programme extending through 2030. The investment is aimed at strengthening Lieken’s manufacturing operations and supporting long-term growth in the European packaged bakery market.
A major portion of the investment will be directed towards Lieken’s manufacturing facility in Wittenberg, Germany. The programme includes new production lines, refurbishment of existing lines, facility upgrades and the installation of more advanced automated equipment. The improvements will focus particularly on staple bakery products such as sandwich bread, sliced bread and toast.
Lieken also plans to expand its use of digital technologies across its manufacturing operations. Machine-data analytics and artificial intelligence will be used to support predictive maintenance, reduce equipment downtime and improve production and supply-chain scheduling. These technologies are expected to help the company improve operational efficiency while maintaining reliable supply for its customers.
The investment comes as Lieken seeks to strengthen its position in Germany’s retail and foodservice markets. The company produces established brands including Golden Toast and Lieken Urkorn and also operates as a private-label supplier for European retailers. It reportedly supplies around half of the burger buns used by Germany’s fast-food industry.
Agrofert’s expansion programme also includes plans for a new production facility in northern Germany. The additional capacity is intended to support growing long-term supply contracts and strengthen Lieken’s manufacturing network.
The modernisation programme is also designed to address higher energy costs, tighter environmental requirements and changing consumer expectations around sustainable packaged bakery products. By adopting more automated and energy-efficient production systems, Lieken aims to improve manufacturing performance while reducing the carbon intensity of its operations.
The investment represents a significant step in Agrofert’s strategy to strengthen its food-production operations in Germany. For Lieken, the planned upgrades are expected to increase production capabilities, improve supply-chain reliability and create a stronger foundation for growth in the Central European bakery market.