Schwarz Gruppe to invest 5.6 billion euros in Dummerstorf data center

The Schwarz Gruppe, the retail group behind Lidl and Kaufland, plans to invest up to 5.6 billion euros in a new data center in Dummerstorf, near Rostock. Scheduled for construction starting in 2027, the facility is intended to expand the capacities of the company’s cloud platform, Stackit, focusing on cloud computing and artificial intelligence.

In connection with this digital expansion, the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern has entered a cooperation agreement with Schwarz Digits to create a unified digital workplace for approximately 16,000 teachers and school employees. This pilot project aims to provide flexible access to emails, calendars, and files via an open-source platform, reducing reliance on major international tech corporations.

While the state government views the investment as a significant economic gain due to its proximity to high-voltage lines and renewable energy, questions remain regarding the long-term regional value. Specific details concerning the number of permanent jobs created and the proportion of contracts awarded to local companies have not yet been finalized.