When fully operational the partners will operate the largest network of Capsugel’s Xcelodose systems in the contract development and manufacturing sector.
This will consist of four Xcelodose systems, three that are already operational at the Xcelience site in Tampa, Florida, US and a new system at the Penn site in Gwent, Wales.
Installing an Xcelodose system at the Penn site will allow the partners to better serve clients in Europe and Asia. Randall Guthrie, vice president, Xcelience, told Outsourcing-Pharma that the competitive landscape in these regions is relatively open, leaving a market opportunity.
Biopharm firms in the regions, like their peers in North America, are requesting PIC services to provide them with an additional tool that can shorten development times. Penn and Xcelience have responded by creating the venture “around clearly articulated client demand”, said Guthrie.
The partners are setting up an Xcelodose 120S system, which will be owned by Xcelience, at the Penn site in Gwent. Guthrie said it is expected to be fully operational in August 2010. Penn will immediately leverage the technology for clients in need of PIC supplies, said Guthrie.
JV structure
Companies will be able to access the equipment through either Penn or Xcelience. To drive the project the partners have begun cross-training and integrated selling strategies with their respective sales teams.
“This joint venture will create a powerful partnership between two leading providers who share a common commitment to quality, innovation, and building client relationships based on trust and performance”, said Derek Hennecke, CEO of Xcelience, in a press statement.
“Response from clients has been overwhelming”, said Guthrie, and Xcelience and Penn Pharma sales teams are actively responding to client interest and demand. Potential projects timed to meet operational launch are being discussed.