|
Pharmaceutical manufacturers in Europe are facing many new challenges related to their product packaging operations, and one of the most problematic is the need to integrate sophisticated codes, or to serialise product packaging. Regulatory requirements such as the French CIP13 coding are forcing changes to packaging lines throughout Europe. Many countries are preparing to adopt similar requirements for pharmaceutical tracking and reimbursement initiatives. While deadlines and mandates are constantly changing, manufacturers must make crucial decisions with regard to their packaging operations. Industry leaders recognise that individual factors, such as country-specific regulatory requirements, may drive local projects, but the adoption of sophisticated coding or product serialisation requires an overall strategy.
Companies must consider what, when and where information should be added to product packaging. These decisions may affect how a product is packaged, at what location it is packaged, and how the product is distributed into the supply chain. These are business decisions that require cross-functional teams to formulate strategies and to implement plans. These teams should consider the implications on packaging resources, product availability and sourcing, supply chain and trade strategies, and information systems architecture and processes. |
