Cybersecurity made in Bochum, Germany

The Ruhr region is experiencing rapid growth. Owing to its urban charm and rising quality of life, the region attracts a remarkable number of engineering graduates every year.

ETAS recognized the potential early on and took over Bochum-based ESCRYPT GmbH, a Ruhr University spin-off and leader in security solutions for embedded systems, in 2012. In 2022, ESCRYPT was fully integrated into the Bosch subsidiary ETAS and has been firmly established in the Ruhr region ever since.

The MARK 51°7 science and technology park is taking shape at the site of the former Opel plant in Bochum. This urban vision of the future was created for an urban planning competition held in 2015 and driven by the Bochum Perspektive company. ETAS rented 8,200 square meters of this facility – fully renovated and perfectly connected to public transport.

During the initial construction phase, five entire levels and a recessed top floor including a technical center and roof terrace were built on 10,600 square meters of usable space. Main tenant ETAS occupies the third and fourth floors with around 140 associates. The Bosch training center for Bosch Home Comfort is located on the first floor. As of 2025, other Bosch divisions and Enreach GmbH will also make use of this space.

The entrance level, featuring a foyer, exhibition and the “Schanke 4630” café, is partially open to the public. Four conference rooms offer space for internal and external events.

The upper floors are designed as open office landscapes with lounges and tea kitchens, providing an ideal backdrop for flexible working. Desk-sharing creates the right framework for future growth, and the unisex sanitary areas add a modern touch.

The building exterior combines reinforced concrete structures with folded prefabricated elements made from recycled concrete. Aluminum window strips are located on the office floors. The 75-kWp photovoltaic system on the roof covers part of the company’s power requirements. Basic heating and cooling of the office areas on the upper floors is provided by means of concrete core activation with peak load coverage. Energyefficient building automation includes features such as lighting based on a motion detector control system. Burglar and fire alarm systems secure the centrally ventilated building. The electrical supply is provided by a 630-kVA transformer.

MARK 51°7 combines technological innovation and a sustainable mindset – a success story in the heart of the Ruhr region that has only just begun.