How the publisher dlv streamlined compliance across 40+ media brands with DataGuard
"Customer requests used to push us to the edge of our deadlines—the workload was intense. With DataGuard, our processes are so streamlined that we can respond much faster."
Sebastian Breitenfeld
Head of Technology, Data and Processes at dlv
Deutscher Landwirtschaftsverlag
The Deutsche Landwirtschaftsverlag GmbH (dlv) is one of Germany’s ten largest specialist media publishers. With more than 40 media brands, dlv delivers content on agriculture, forestry, hunting, horticulture, beekeeping, as well as commerce and industry. Its cross-media portfolio spans weekly journals, digital platforms, mobile apps, online shops, and events. Active in 18 European countries, dlv focuses particularly on the German-speaking region. As a data-driven media company, it combines expert knowledge with accessible language—delivering content in the format best suited to each audience.
Location
Germany
Company size
Corporates
Industry
Media
Product
GDPR
Streamlining compliance across 40+ media brands
With over 40 brands, a growing international presence, and a strong focus on digital, dlv faces not only editorial complexity, but also significant pressure regarding data privacy and GDPR compliance.
Challenge
With limited internal capacity, dlv had to juggle disconnected systems, inefficient manual processes, and a constant stream of data subject requests.
They received 10 to 20 privacy requests per day—and during peak marketing periods, the volume became almost unmanageable. Existing tools provided little support, and collaboration with their former external data protection provider was, in Sebastian Breitenfeld’s words, “chaotic.”
Their key challenges:
- Fragmented systems: Customer data was scattered across various tools—each request required time-consuming manual checks
- High workload from data subject requests: With 10–20 requests daily, processing was resource-intensive and often pushed deadlines
- Manual processes: Handling documentation and responses via Excel spreadsheets made it difficult to scale as volume increased
- Legal pressure: New regulations and regular legal queries demanded precise, well-documented processes
- Lack of structure and support: Their previous partner offered neither strategic guidance nor tailored support
Solution
After an unstructured experience with their former privacy partner, dlv looked for a provider who could combine legal expertise with a practical, easy-to-implement solution. What stood out about DataGuard was the combination of expert advice and a platform that simplifies day-to-day privacy operations—from training to policy access and request management.
From day one, DataGuard and dlv launched a full privacy audit: all relevant compliance processes mapping, documenting, and reviewing all processes for gaps. This formed the basis of a tailored privacy program—custom-built to handle the complexity of a publisher with over 40 brands.
A cornerstone of the collaboration is the DataGuard platform—it brings structure to complex privacy operations by turning manual, time-consuming tasks into standardized, scalable processes. From managing subject requests and assigning training to centralizing documentation and responsibilities, the platform makes privacy work easier across the dlv organization.
Why DataGuard?
- Tailored data protection strategy: Built a structured, company-wide privacy program from process analysis to full documentation
- Efficient handling of data subject requests: Centralized templates and standardized workflows enabled legally compliant and time-saving responses to access requests, deletion inquiries, and objections to marketing
- TOMs that fit your business: Technical and organizational measures tailored to the specific needs of the publishing group
- Training with the DataGuard Academy: Mandatory training and hands-on specialist courses for data-intensive teams (e.g. sales), assigned digitally and fully trackable
- Support when it matters most: Expert help with sensitive customer inquiries, GDPR-compliant marketing, and complex privacy challenges
- Privacy-compliant AI usage: Guidance on evaluating and documenting AI use in line with data protection requirements
- Technology meets real-world expertise: The DataGuard platform centralized privacy processes – combining practical features with expert, solution-focused support
Results
Since partnering with DataGuard, privacy at dlv has improved fundamentally. What used to be time-consuming and manual is now clearly defined, centrally documented, and transparent. The team can respond faster, manage GDPR compliance more confidently, and can focus on emerging regulatory challenges, including upcoming requirements under the EU AI Act.
Key achievements:
- Faster request handling: Access, deletion, and opt-out requests can now be handled efficiently – without brushing up against deadlines
- Centralized, traceable documentation: Hundreds of processes are now documented, versioned, and digitally accessible
- Privacy as part of company culture: Templates, training, and always-on access to information via the platform have strengthened awareness across the business
- Strong management buy-in: Privacy isn’t just a legal requirement anymore—it’s an integral part of the company strategy, supported at leadership level
- Room to grow: With structured processes in place, there’s now space to focus on future topics like AI, international data transfers, and new marketing strategies—always with privacy in mind from the start
What’s next?
At dlv, privacy is no longer just about ticking compliance boxes—it’s become the foundation for responsible, forward-looking operations.
Emerging topics like AI, cross-border data transfers, and increasing regulation across Europe are bringing new challenges. The goal remains the same: to treat privacy not only as a legal requirement, but as a tool for shaping secure and modern communication and business models. With DataGuard, dlv feel ready for the challenge.
