Almac adds language-based pack unit for niche and orphan drugs

Almac says new late-stage customisation suite at its facility will cater for firms wishing to launch orphan and niche drugs in Europe.

The unit, in Craigavon, Northern Ireland, will produce ‘regional’ packs for European markets that share a common language, which will offer significant benefits according to Almac distribution manager Mark English.

Grouping countries by language allowing for multi-language packs to service multiple markets, with country specific information added at point of despatch, provides significant cost advantages.

He added that: “Working with products that are manufactured in very low volumes at, often, a very high cost means that solutions to minimise stock holding are of particular benefit.”

Almac's investment is timely given that, increasingly drugmakers are focused on developing niche, high-value pharmaceutical products, the correct storage and appropriate distribution of which is critical.