PLAIO raises €4.3M to revolutionize pharma supply chains with AI-driven planning platform
The funds will be deployed to expand its operations across the US and Europe, with a particular focus on enhancing its AI Coplanner tool and forging strategic partnerships that will cement its status as a leader in the market.
Its creative platform addresses a critical gap in the pharmaceutical industry, where over 95% of companies still rely on outdated, manual spreadsheet processes for supply chain management. Despite the sector’s purported enthusiasm for digital transformation, the transition to Pharma 4.0 has been sluggish, leaving many companies vulnerable to inefficiencies and errors.
Co-founded by industry veterans with over 25 years of experience, the company says it is the first AI-assisted platform tailored to meet the unique demands of pharma supply chains. The funding round, led by Iðunn, a venture capital fund managed by Kvika Asset Management, comes on the heels of a €2.7 million pre-Series A round in 2021 and a €400,000 injection from the Icelandic Technical Development Fund in 2023. Iðunn’s investment manager, Pétur Richter, and Andri Sveinsson of Dr. Agon, another key investor, will join PLAIO’s board of directors, bringing deep industry expertise to guide the company’s global expansion.
The AI Coplanner sets a new benchmark for the industry by offering an intuitive natural language interface that allows pharma professionals to quickly analyze data and simulate various 'what if' scenarios. This technology enables companies to streamline complex processes, reduce reliance on error-prone manual tasks, and enhance the accuracy of forecasting, procurement, and production scheduling.
"As interest in AI continues to surge, we’re seeing exponential growth and a remarkable level of interest from global clients. This latest funding is a testament to the value we’re bringing to the industry, and we’re more energized than ever to scale PLAIO’s transformative power on a global stage.”
“We founded this company with a clear mission: to transform the outdated and inefficient methods that dominate pharmaceutical supply chain planning," said Johann Gudbjargarson, CEO of PLAIO.
The company says the pharmaceutical industry’s slow adoption of AI and digital technologies has created a ripe opportunity, which has already seen its client portfolio grow by 200% over the past year. Notable clients include global leaders such as Covis Pharma and Alvotech, underscoring its rapidly expanding footprint.
“PLAIO is standing at the forefront of a critical shift in the pharmaceutical industry, and I’m delighted to be joining the board at such a significant time for the company,” said Pétur Richter of Iðunn.
“Our dedication to solving the pressing challenges of digital transition aligns perfectly with our investment philosophy, and we are extremely excited to support the company’s mission.”
The company says its future looks promising as it continues to challenge the status quo in pharmaceutical planning, driving the industry towards a more efficient, accurate, and digitally integrated future. The platform’s ability to meet day-one requirements without the need for extensive customization makes it particularly appealing to mid-market pharma companies, which have been underserved by traditional planning tools.
With this new infusion of capital and strategic support from seasoned investors, PLAIO strongly believes it is poised to revolutionize the pharmaceutical supply chain landscape, offering a cutting-edge solution that addresses the most pressing challenges facing the industry today.
