In a major step toward sustainable and automated beverage production, Krones AG, along with its subsidiary Steinecker GmbH, is spearheading the greenfield development of a fully automated brewery facility for Bayreuther Brauhaus in Franconia, Germany. The state-of-the-art project showcases Krones’ expertise in providing resource-efficient machinery and integrated systems to enable smart manufacturing.
The facility is designed for an annual output of 500,000 hectolitres and focuses on next-gen automation and energy-efficient operations. Steinecker is delivering the brewhouse, fermentation and storage cellars, and utility systems, while Krones is supplying the complete bottling technology—featuring a returnable-glass line with a speed of 40,000 bottles per hour.
Importantly, the bottling line replicates machinery already in use at Gebr. Maisel’s nearby facility, enabling workforce flexibility and operational continuity. The packaging and handling setup includes automated bottle washing, filling, labelling, and secondary packaging—ensuring a streamlined process with reduced manual intervention.
At the core of the facility is a pioneering energy model: A photovoltaic system provides green electricity, while a wood chip-based heating system generates thermal energy. The plant operates on dual heating circuits—high-pressure hot water for wort boiling and low-pressure systems powered by heat pumps for other processes. Technologies like Steinecker’s EquiTherm system ensure optimal energy reuse during production.
“The project is setting new benchmarks in automation and sustainability. Our partnership with Brauerei Gebr. Maisel reinforces our commitment to delivering future-ready, energy-smart solutions for beverage production,” stated Thomas Ricker, Chief Sales Officer at Krones AG.
Construction is underway, with brewhouse systems slated for delivery by the end of 2025 and bottling lines expected by mid-2026. The project exemplifies Krones’ mission to engineer highly efficient, eco-conscious systems for modern manufacturing.