NECKARSULM — Bechtle AG is advancing its vision for AI-driven growth by transforming its Rostock location into a hub for Planet AI’s cutting-edge applications, which are marketed across Europe by the Bechtle Group. The decision to expand in Rostock leverages its proximity to the University of Rostock, a long-term collaborator with Planet AI in application-oriented AI research. Since their partnership agreement in January 2020, both entities have completed several EU and state-funded projects in deep learning, reinforcing their combined efforts in artificial intelligence innovation.

Jochen Schulte, State Secretary at the Ministry for Economic Affairs, Infrastructure, and Tourism in Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, reiterated the state’s commitment to the initiative, highlighting opportunities for additional funding to foster the region’s AI ecosystem. “Planet AI’s growth showcases our dedication to enhancing the AI ecosystem in Rostock. The collaboration between university researchers and industrial applications, backed by the Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, is essential for driving digitalisation expertise in SMEs and promoting economic success,” stated Schulte.

Planet AI specializes in AI solutions for intelligent document analysis and process automation. Bechtle, which acquired a 51% majority stake in the company in October 2023, aims to combine practical AI research with its extensive marketing network as Germany’s largest IT system house. This partnership aims to strengthen Europe’s AI ecosystem and take a leading role in shaping future innovations.

Commitment to Building AI Hubs

Bechtle’s COO for IT System House and Managed Services, Michael Guschlbauer, underscored the strategic importance of expanding the Rostock site into a central hub for AI innovation. “The proximity to the university and the state’s commitment have provided the momentum we need to continue advancing a future-first ecosystem. AI is essential for digital transformation, and we are firmly focused on realizing its potential,” said Guschlbauer.

In addition to its activities in Rostock, Bechtle is an active member of the Innovation Park Artificial Intelligence (Ipai) in Heilbronn, near its Neckarsulm headquarters. Supported by up to €50 million in funding from the state of Baden-Württemberg, Ipai is set to become a European center for AI, fostering partnerships to develop forward-looking AI solutions. Planet AI’s Intelligent Document Analysis (IDA) application will also be featured as a demonstrator at Ipai, further showcasing its capabilities.

Nurturing Talent and Driving Collaboration

The close partnership between Planet AI and the University of Rostock has been pivotal in both research outcomes and talent recruitment. Planet AI CEO Jesper Kleinjohann, who began his journey in Rostock as a student working on neural networks, emphasized the value of this collaboration. “Our partnership with the University of Rostock’s CITlab has been instrumental, not only for our successful projects but also in attracting top talent to our diverse and growing team,” Kleinjohann said. Over half of Planet AI’s nearly 50 employees are University of Rostock graduates, predominantly working in research and development roles.

Through its dual hubs in Rostock and Heilbronn, Bechtle is positioning itself at the forefront of Europe’s AI landscape, fostering innovation and ensuring the next generation of talent is prepared to lead the charge in artificial intelligence advancements.