Google has teamed up with Schwarz Group, Europe’s largest retailer, to deliver a sovereign cloud solution designed for highly regulated industries in Germany and the EU. The partnership leverages StackIT, the independent cloud provider under Schwarz Group, which will offer client-side encryption for Google Workspace data. This encryption ensures that customers’ data is protected and remains within their control, with no access from foreign governments or third-party platform providers.
The primary focus of the partnership is to meet the growing need for data sovereignty in Europe. All customer data will be stored exclusively within the European Union, with redundancy and backups hosted in EU-based data centers. This addresses concerns over data residency, security, and compliance with European regulations, providing peace of mind for organizations that must comply with stringent data protection laws.
Google Partners with Schwarz Group to Deliver EU-Compliant Sovereign Cloud Solutions
A critical aspect of the collaboration is the client-side encryption, which ensures that Google cannot access customers’ data. This encryption model safeguards the sovereignty of businesses and reassures them that their sensitive information is securely managed. By maintaining local control over data, the partnership offers European businesses a cloud solution that respects their operational independence while meeting rigorous regulatory standards.
The partnership also integrates Google Cloud’s security with XM Cyber, a hybrid cloud security company within Schwarz Digits. This integrated security solution will be distributed via the Google Cloud Marketplace, allowing businesses in regulated industries to enhance their security frameworks. Google and Schwarz Group aim to eliminate concerns around sovereignty and security, paving the way for increased cloud adoption in sectors that require strict compliance.
Schwarz Group’s move to Google Workspace represents a significant shift toward modernizing its digital infrastructure. By transitioning its global office workforce to Google’s cloud-based productivity tools, Schwarz expects to simplify IT management, improve operational efficiency, and protect critical workplace data. This migration also enhances their ability to innovate and streamline workflows, particularly in point-of-sale operations, as part of their broader digital transformation strategy.
