Picanol Bundle
What is the history of Picanol?
Picanol, a leader in textile innovation, celebrated a major milestone in October 2023, producing its 400,000th weaving machine. Established in 1936 in Ieper, Belgium, its founding mission was to advance weaving through automation.
From its beginnings, the company has grown to become the world's foremost producer of advanced weaving machines, capturing a significant portion of the global market. Its operations now encompass not only textile machinery but also engineered casting parts for diverse industrial sectors.
What is the history of Picanol?
What is the Picanol Founding Story?
The Picanol company's journey began in 1936 when Belgian industrialist Charles Steverlynck established the company in Ieper, Belgium. Initially named Weefautomaten Picañol NV, its foundation was built upon the innovative design of the 'Omnium' weaving machine by Spanish engineer Jaimé Picañol, after whom the company was named.
Picanol's Founding Story
The Picanol company's origins trace back to 1936, founded by Charles Steverlynck in Ieper, Belgium. The company's initial success was driven by the 'Omnium' automatic shuttle loom, based on a design by Jaimé Picañol.
- Founded in 1936 by Charles Steverlynck in Ieper, Belgium.
- Original name: Weefautomaten Picañol NV.
- Technology based on Jaimé Picañol's 'Omnium' automatic shuttle loom.
- Benefited from connections with Spanish weaving specialists.
The establishment of Picanol was significantly influenced by the thriving textile industry in Flanders. Charles Steverlynck recognized the potential to boost productivity and quality in textile manufacturing through automated weaving solutions. This foresight led to a business model focused on developing and producing advanced weaving machines. By 1940, the company achieved a production rate of one Omnium machine daily, and by 1951, Picanol had distributed a remarkable 160,000 machines worldwide, underscoring its early impact on the sector and its growing global reach. Understanding the Target Market of Picanol provides further context to its strategic development.
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What Drove the Early Growth of Picanol?
The early years of the company were marked by significant technological strides and strategic market expansion. Key milestones included the introduction of its first telex machine in 1955 and the establishment of its own foundry in 1962, emphasizing precision engineering.
Technological Advancements and Vertical Integration
Picanol's commitment to innovation was evident with the introduction of its first telex machine in 1955. A major step towards quality control and precision was taken in 1962 with the construction of its own foundry, utilizing modern high-pressure molding techniques.
Market Penetration and Product Diversification
The company demonstrated its market ambition by air-freighting its new 'President' loom to the USA in 1963. Further product expansion occurred in November 1965 with the launch of its first towel loom, broadening its textile machinery offerings.
Corporate Development and International Reach
A significant corporate milestone was achieved in 1966 when Picanol was listed on Euronext Brussels, formalizing its financial operations. International expansion began in 1968 with the establishment of a German subsidiary, Fa Picanol Deutschland GmbH, to strengthen its presence in a key European market.
Expansion and Diversification of Activities
By 1970, rapid growth necessitated the construction of a new assembly hall in Ieper, where the company employed over 2,500 individuals. The foundry division was later spun off as Proferro NV in 1989, and the company also invested in Protronic (now PsiControl), with Melotte joining in 1990, diversifying its industrial portfolio. The company achieved ISO 9001 certification in 1993, underscoring its commitment to quality. Further strategic acquisitions in 2001 and 2002, including Verbrugge NV and Steel Heddle Inc., alongside the feeders and nozzles business of Te Strake BV, expanded its product range and market reach. By 2003, the company had established offices in Indonesia, Brazil, and Mexico, and acquired Burcklé in France. In 2012, new headquarters in India and an office for Picanol of America were opened to bolster its global sales and service network. A notable strategic move occurred in July 2013 with the acquisition of a 27.52% stake in Tessenderlo Group, signaling potential future integration and aligning with the company's Mission, Vision & Core Values of Picanol.
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What are the key Milestones in Picanol history?
The Picanol company history is marked by significant technological advancements and strategic adaptations to market dynamics. From pioneering electronic control in weaving to embracing digital integration, the company has consistently aimed for enhanced performance and efficiency in textile machinery. This journey has also involved navigating economic downturns and internal restructuring, demonstrating resilience in a competitive global landscape.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1971 | Picanol exhibited the MDC, the world's first electronically controlled flying shuttle machine. |
| 1975 | The PGW was introduced, Picanol's first weaving machine without a flying shuttle, adopting rapier technology. |
| 2007 | The OptiMax-i and GT-Max rapier weaving machines were launched. |
| 2011 | The OMNIplus Summum airjet weaving machine was introduced. |
| October 2021 | The 'Connect' generation weaving machines were virtually launched, focusing on connectivity. |
| Q4 2021 | PicConnect, a digital platform for Industrial IoT and service applications, was introduced. |
| November 2023 | The Ultimax rapier weaving machine was unveiled at ITMA 2023. |
| October 2024 | The Supermax rapier weaving machine premiered at ITMA ASIA + CITME, alongside the OmniPlus-i Connect airjet. |
| January 2023 | Picanol Group became a business unit of Tessenderlo Group following a merger. |
Picanol has consistently pushed the boundaries of textile machinery innovation, notably with the introduction of the world's first electronically controlled flying shuttle machine in 1971 and the subsequent adoption of rapier technology with the PGW in 1975. The company's commitment to digital transformation is evident in its 'Connect' generation machines and the PicConnect platform, aiming for greater data availability and connectivity.
Electronic Control in Weaving
In 1971, Picanol introduced the MDC, a groundbreaking machine that featured the world's first electronic control for flying shuttle weaving.
Rapier Technology Adoption
The 1975 launch of the PGW marked a significant shift to rapier technology, opening new market segments like wool and upholstery weaving.
Digital Integration
The 'Connect' generation machines and the PicConnect platform, launched in 2021, underscore Picanol's focus on Industrial IoT and data-driven operations.
High-Speed Airjet Technology
The OmniPlus-i Connect airjet weaving machine, introduced in 2024, is recognized as the fastest globally, reaching speeds of up to 1,350 wefts per minute.
Sustainability and Data Focus
Picanol's latest machines, like the Ultimax, are designed with core principles of Sustainability Inside, Driven by Data, Smart Performance, and Intuitive Control.
Market-Leading Performance
The Supermax rapier weaving machine, premiered in October 2024, represents Picanol's ongoing pursuit of ultimate performance in weaving technology.
Picanol has encountered challenges including market cyclicality, which led to a 3% revenue decline in 2018, and a significant ransomware attack in January 2020 that disrupted operations. The company has strategically diversified its activities and integrated with Tessenderlo Group in January 2023 to enhance stability and growth, a move that followed earlier shareholder considerations regarding Revenue Streams & Business Model of Picanol.
Market Volatility Impact
The textile market's inherent cyclical nature and geopolitical factors have historically influenced Picanol's revenue, as seen with a revenue dip in 2018.
Cybersecurity Incident
A major ransomware attack in January 2020 severely impacted Picanol's operations across multiple locations, highlighting cybersecurity risks.
Internal Transition
The company navigated internal challenges, including family dynamics and a shift towards more professional management around 2004.
Strategic Integration
A merger with Tessenderlo Group, completed in January 2023, aimed to streamline the group structure and bolster long-term stability and growth.
Diversification Strategy
To mitigate reliance on the textile sector, Picanol has increasingly focused on its Industries division, enhancing its overall business resilience.
Shareholder Considerations
The path to the Tessenderlo Group merger involved initial shareholder resistance in 2015 before being successfully re-announced and completed.
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What is the Timeline of Key Events for Picanol?
The Picanol company history is a rich tapestry of innovation and growth, tracing its origins back to 1936. From its founding by Charles Steverlynck, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of textile machinery technology. This brief history of Picanol highlights its evolution into a global leader in weaving solutions.
| Year | Key Event |
|---|---|
| 1936 | Founded by Charles Steverlynck as Weefautomaten Picañol NV in Ieper, Belgium. |
| 1966 | Listed on Euronext Brussels (ticker: PIC). |
| 1971 | Exhibited the MDC, the world's first electronically controlled flying shuttle machine. |
| 1975 | Introduced the PGW, Picanol's first rapier weaving machine. |
| 1989 | Foundry division spun off into Proferro NV; PsiControl became part of the group. |
| 2001 | Acquired Verbrugge NV and Steel Heddle Inc. |
| 2007 | Launched the new OptiMax-i and GT-Max rapier weaving machines. |
| 2013 | Picanol Group acquired a 27.52% stake in Tessenderlo Group. |
| 2020 | Suffered a massive ransomware attack. |
| 2021 | Introduced the 'Connect' generation weaving machines and launched the PicConnect digital platform. |
| 2021 | Acquired a 10% minority stake in Rieter Holding. |
| 2023 | Picanol Group officially became a business unit of Tessenderlo Group. |
| 2023 | Launched the Ultimax rapier weaving machine at ITMA 2023. |
| 2023 | Produced its 400,000th weaving machine in Ieper. |
| 2024 | World premiere of the Supermax rapier weaving machine at ITMA ASIA + CITME 2024. |
| 2025 | Officially opened its new 20,000 square meter headquarters in Ieper. |
| 2025 | Acquired Osterwalder AG, a Swiss specialist in electric powder presses. |
Digitalization and Connectivity
The PicConnect digital platform enhances weaver connectivity and data-driven insights. This focus on digitalization is crucial for future growth and operational efficiency in the textile industry.
Sustainability Focus
Sustainability is a core design principle, emphasizing energy-efficient machinery. Approximately 30-35% of new textile machinery sales in 2024 were linked to sustainability features, a trend Picanol actively supports.
Market Growth and Expansion
The global textile machinery market is projected to reach nearly USD 48.53 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 5.45% from 2025. Picanol aims to capture a significant market share by leveraging its advanced solutions.
Strategic Investments and Innovation
The recent opening of a new headquarters in Ieper and the acquisition of Osterwalder AG underscore Picanol's commitment to innovation and diversification. These moves reinforce its position within the broader industrial landscape, building on its Competitors Landscape of Picanol.
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