In order to create urgently needed space and optimize the company's own logistics processes, the new hall 8 with a size of 3,125 square meters has been built on an area on Heerstraße since spring 2023. In future, the three divisions Marine, Industry and Energy and Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology will be brought together in one shipping area. In addition to a modern warehouse lift system and an optimized packaging area, the new building will also house the commercial shipping department with attractive office workstations and modern kitchens and social rooms. With the aim of increasingly decarbonizing its own energy supply, VULKAN will equip the roof area of the newly built hall with a photovoltaic system, which will cover an area of 3,000 square metres and generate an annual yield of around 420 kWp. A connection to the transformer station in Hall 2 ensures that the energy generated here will also be used to supply the mechanical production area. VULKAN has invested around 8 million euros in the construction of the new logistics hall.
Better pre-picking and faster throughput
"The construction of the new Hall 8 is part of our strategy to invest in the future viability of our plant in Herne and will enable us to continue our growth trajectory," said Sebastian Meise, Managing Director of VULKAN Germany and COO/CTO of the VULKAN Group. "Thanks to the new shipping organization, we will be able to better pre-pick goods and shorten waiting times. This will result in a faster throughput and also relieve the burden on the carriers collecting the goods. The additional storage space enables us to keep stock for some of our customers," he continued.
Further planned investments
In addition to the construction of the new logistics hall, VULKAN is planning further investments in the site in the coming years. For example, the company is currently examining the possibility of expanding the existing high-bay warehouse. Restructuring in the production of refrigeration and air conditioning technology is also being considered. In order to further promote the use of alternative energies, additional halls will be equipped with photovoltaic modules in the coming months. The attractiveness of the workplaces has also been further enhanced by redesigning the outdoor area around the in-house Hackforth Academy. There are now additional places to spend a relaxing break in the greenery. By settling two bee colonies on the company premises, VULKAN aims to counteract bee mortality and thus make a further contribution to promoting sustainability and biodiversity.
Commitment to the location
Herne's Lord Mayor Dr. Frank Dudda welcomed VULKAN's investment and commitment: "With the new logistics hall, VULKAN continues to grow at its headquarters for all to see and can expand its position as market leader. I am particularly pleased that a hidden champion, whose technology and expertise are in demand worldwide, is committing itself to the Herne location with this investment."