The present study investigates the effect of structured packing on the global and local phase distributions in a technical scale bubble column operated in a semi-batch mode. MellapakPlus N252Y manufactured by Sulzer ChemTech GmbH (Switzerland) was used as a structured packing. Stationary integral, cross-sectional and radial gas holdups were determined by means of camera and wire-mesh sensor. Integral and cross-sectional gas holdups were comparable for the empty and packed bubble column. On a local scale, the installation of packing led to an increase in gas holdup in the column center compared to the empty bubble column. Additionally, the gas phase centroid was calculated from wire-mesh data for both setups. The position of the gas phase centroid was closer to the column axis for the empty bubble column, indicating a more uniform gas phase distribution. Liquid phase distribution was analyzed via tracer studies. Time-dependent cross-sectional and radial tracer responses were analyzed via camera and wire-mesh sensor for the bubble column with and without packing. In comparison, the number and intensity of tracer peaks were reduced in the presence of packing. It was found that, in the case of a packed bubble column, the time until complete tracer distribution in the liquid phase decreased.