SWITZERLAND - Swiss technology leader Bühler has opened its new Grain Innovation Center (GIC) in Uzwil to advance grain processing technology. 

The state-of-the-art facility provides customers in the food and animal nutrition sectors with a unique environment to develop, test, and refine milling solutions that respond to evolving market needs. 

With a focus on sustainable innovation and adaptability, the GIC combines Bühler's established expertise with cutting-edge technology and is designed to promote collaborative advancement.

Enhanced capabilities in a 2,000-square-meter facility

Replacing Bühler’s former Grain Technology Center, which had served the industry since 1951, the new 2,000-square-meter, five-story facility introduces advanced technology to address complex challenges in the milling industry, including supply chain pressures, consumer demand for healthier products, and environmental sustainability. 

The GIC houses over 70 modern pieces of equipment from Bühler and its partners, enabling customers to perform a wide range of trials. These include testing grain and pulse processing solutions across cleaning, grinding, mixing, protein shifting, pelleting, and hygienization processes, among others.

“The GIC is not just a facility; it’s a symbol of our commitment to helping customers succeed in an industry that is continuously evolving,” remarked Stefan Birrer, Head of Milling Solutions at Bühler. “It offers an unparalleled environment where customers can develop tailored processes and explore Bühler’s extensive portfolio.”

Application & Training Center hub

In addition to the GIC, Bühler’s Uzwil site houses the expansive Application & Training Center (ATC) hub. The hub includes facilities such as the Flavor Creation Center, Protein Application Center, and Energy Recovery Center, among others, providing a full farm-to-fork coverage. 

The facility connects entire value chains, allowing customers to refine production efficiencies, improve energy management, and meet sustainability goals. 

The GIC alone generates side streams like wheat bran and rice husks, which are then routed to Bühler’s Energy Recovery Center for heating nearby offices, reducing carbon footprint and energy costs.

Focus on training and skills development

Recognizing the skills gap in the milling industry, Bühler has also enhanced its Milling Academy and Swiss Institute of Feed Technology (SFT), which will soon be relocated next to the GIC. 

Scheduled to open in early 2025, the new training facility will offer classrooms, labs, open learning areas, and modern amenities. Last year, more than 1,000 customers and 150 Bühler employees received training at these facilities. 

According to Bühler, the enhanced learning center aims to equip industry professionals with the technical knowledge and skills required to address ongoing industry challenges.

Cutting-edge testing and real-world solutions

The GIC’s robust facilities allow customers to conduct trials with a wide array of raw materials—from ancient grains and spices to animal feed—simulating real-world production conditions and monitoring product attributes at each stage. 

Bühler has also made strides in supporting the industry's shift toward sustainability by providing testing for non-food bulk solids, including plastics and absorbers, and exploring alternative protein sources.

“We cover the entire range of production, from various raw materials to a wide array of finished products. In doing so, we provide our customers with exceptional flexibility and the choices they need to address increasing challenges,” reflecting on the facility's potential impact, Johannes Wick, CEO of Grains & Food at Bühler, explained.