PICARD is positioning itself for growth, not just economically but also in terms of its infrastructure. With the official commissioning of two new buildings, the company is making a bold statement about its future direction. The state-of-the-art shuttle warehouse, 1,212 m² of new office space, and an additional extension featuring an in-house fitness studio, a unique Biophilic Room, and expansive social areas are not only increasing available space but also opening up new opportunities for more efficient processes and an enhanced working environment. After an intensive planning and construction phase, PICARD is now unveiling its new facilities at its premises in Bochum.
The Shuttle Warehouse: Cutting-Edge Technology Meets Maximum Efficiency
Innovation and digital solutions are firmly embedded in PICARD’s DNA. As early as the late 1990s, the company introduced the first online shop in the bearing industry for wholesalers – and continues to rely on advanced technologies today. A particularly notable example of this forward-thinking approach is the new fully automated shuttle warehouse. This is the largest single investment in logistics at PICARD, setting new standards for efficiency.
The fully automated system allows for highly precise and rapid picking – even around the clock if necessary. Thanks to cutting-edge technology, containers move at speeds of up to 4 m/s from the shelves to the pick locations, enabling up to 1,200 containers to be processed per hour.
Another standout feature of the shuttle warehouse is the optimized use of space: with a shelf height of 15.8 meters, a ceiling height of 16.5 meters, and a triple-deep, high-density storage system, the warehouse accommodates nearly 58,000 container positions across 42 levels. This expansion significantly boosts storage capacity and streamlines logistics processes – without requiring additional personnel.
Expanding Infrastructure: Modern Office Spaces for a Growing Workforce
As PICARD continues to grow, so do the demands on its infrastructure. To meet these needs, the company has added 1,212 m² of new office space, located on three floors above the picking zone of the shuttle warehouse. This expansion has created a modern workspace with 67 new workstations, providing employees with even more room for productive work and creative collaboration.
The office areas combine functionality with a thoughtful layout, featuring new conference rooms, meeting areas, and comfortable lounges for short breaks. These spaces not only encourage communication but also enhance employee well-being. Special attention was paid to accessibility: a passenger elevator and accessible restrooms ensure that all employees, regardless of physical limitations, have unhindered access to every area.
A Holistic Approach to Well-being: Fitness Studio, Social Spaces, and More
PICARD recognizes the importance of balancing work, movement, and relaxation. The company’s second expansion includes a 451 m² in-house gym, equipped with modern cardio and strength training areas, a dedicated group fitness room, and direct access to a loggia. This facility offers employees the ideal environment for focused workouts as well as relaxing outdoor breaks after exercise.
Adjacent to the gym is the Biophilic Room, a designated space for relaxation designed with unique interior architecture to foster a calming environment. The large rooftop terrace offers a perfect setting for internal events or informal meetings, providing a scenic view of the surrounding greenery.
The company has also expanded its social spaces, which now include new changing facilities, lockers, and showers, as well as accessible, gender-neutral restrooms. A particular highlight is the “Kauenhimmel” – an area inspired by the “Kauen” from former coal mines, where miners would store their clothing. PICARD incorporated the original baskets from the former washrooms of “Zeche Hugo” in Gelsenkirchen, which now serve to dry towels. The “Kauenhimmel” is not only a striking design feature but also a functional space, reflecting PICARD’s deep regional ties to the Ruhr area.
Sustainable Mobility: Expanding Parking and EV Charging Infrastructure
With the company’s continued expansion comes a growing need for additional parking facilities. PICARD has significantly increased its parking capacity, from 90 to 148 spaces. The charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) is also being upgraded. In the future, eight charging stations with two charging points each will be available – another step toward sustainable mobility at PICARD. Additionally, the company is expanding its infrastructure to accommodate its growing fleet of electric company vehicles.
Focus on Sustainable Energy: Large Photovoltaic System on PICARD Roofs
Sustainability is a key priority in PICARD’s construction efforts. Large-scale photovoltaic systems have been installed on the roofs of both new and existing buildings, with the aim of utilizing the available roof area of approximately 9,300 square meters to generate up to 1.2 megawatts of peak power.
This investment in renewable energy is not only reducing PICARD’s CO₂ emissions but also fulfilling key requirements in its ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) sustainability strategy. The surplus electricity generated will potentially be stored in energy storage systems or fed into the local Bochum city grid – further advancing the company’s commitment to energy efficiency and climate protection.
By using its own solar power, PICARD is also improving its energy cost structure, making the company less dependent on energy price fluctuations and strengthening its long-term economic sustainability. Additionally, in the event of an extended power outage, PICARD is prepared with a mobile backup power system to ensure continued operations and reliable customer service.
A Future-Proof Investment: Enhancing Competitiveness and Employee Well-being
With the new operational buildings, PICARD is not only strengthening its competitiveness but also enhancing its high-tech working environment for employees. This investment ensures that PICARD remains a reliable partner for its global customers and an attractive employer in Bochum for years to come.
This article is published in BearingNews September 2025 issue on pages 32-35
