Insights from Tjoapack’s CEO: 35 years of pharma packaging:

CEO Dexter Tjoa shares insights on the company’s journey, from early barcoding breakthroughs to embracing advanced technologies for patient safety, sustainability, and global compliance. Discover Tjoapack’s pivotal role in transforming the packaging landscape. Outsourcing Pharma's senior editor, Liza Laws (LL) caught up with him to find out more. 

LL:​ Tjoapack recently marked 35 years in pharmaceutical packaging. Can you share some of the company’s key milestones and the innovations that have driven its success?

DT:​ Certainly! Tjoapack has always prioritized innovation, patient safety, and sustainability. One of our earliest milestones was in 1989 when we became the first European company to add barcodes to unit-dose medications, enhancing traceability and helping reduce medication errors. We’ve consistently invested in technologies like serialisation and track-and-trace systems, which combat counterfeiting and improve supply chain security. Over the years, we’ve expanded our expertise to include specialized packaging for biologics, cold chain packaging, and kitting services, allowing us to support the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical market.

LL​:​ The pharmaceutical packaging industry has transformed dramatically over the past few decades. How has Tjoapack adapted to these changes?

DT:​​ The industry has indeed changed, and we’ve evolved alongside it. In the 1990s, for example, we transitioned from glass to plastic packaging, leveraging materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for better durability and transportability. We also implemented tamper-evident features following the Tylenol tampering incident, enhancing patient safety. By the 2000s, our focus turned to combating counterfeit drugs through advanced serialisation, and we were the first to introduce three-tier serialisation from blister to pallet.

LL:​​ Can you talk about how the rise of biologics and sensitive therapies has impacted Tjoapack’s offerings?

DT:​​ Absolutely. Biologics and other sensitive therapies require highly specialized packaging to maintain their efficacy and stability. We developed expertise in primary and secondary packaging for these products, such as pre-filled syringes (PFS) and cold chain solutions. Our approach has made us a trusted partner for companies in need of packaging solutions that preserve the integrity of their products under specific environmental conditions.

LL:​​ Tjoapack operates on a global scale. How does your international presence influence your approach to regulatory compliance?

DT:​​ With a footprint in 42 countries across five continents, we navigate diverse regulatory requirements daily. Our global reach allows us to adapt packaging solutions to meet regional regulations effectively, ensuring compliance and market access for our clients. This adaptability is a cornerstone of our operations, helping us provide seamless support in varied markets.

LL:​​ Let’s look ahead. What trends or technologies does Tjoapack see shaping the future of pharmaceutical packaging?

DT:​​ The future of packaging will be heavily influenced by sustainability and personalization. By 2025, we expect to see widespread adoption of biodegradable materials and plant-based plastics. Personalization will also become more prominent, especially with the growth of pharmacogenomics. We’re preparing to support small-batch, customized packaging for these niche treatments. Additionally, as regulations evolve, we’ll continue advancing our serialisation capabilities, potentially integrating blockchain to further secure the supply chain.

LL:​​ Reflecting on 35 years of transformation, what do you consider Tjoapack’s most significant contributions to the industry?

DT:​​ Our greatest contributions lie in our commitment to patient safety and innovation. From pioneering barcode technology to embracing sustainable packaging and cutting-edge serialisation, we’ve always prioritized advancing the industry. As we celebrate 35 years, we remain dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes and look forward to shaping the future of pharmaceutical packaging.