Pharma Ripe for Change Amid Shifting Consumer Needs

The pharmaceutical industry is undergoing a fundamental shift in product formats with the growth of injectables and customized medicines, requiring manufacturers to rethink their production and packaging strategies, reports the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: Trends Shaping the Future white paper from PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies. 

In addition to this fundamental change to pharmaceutical production, several important trends underpin the shifting focus of industry manufacturers. Increased throughput needs at pharmaceutical plants is one factor driving the expansion of automation in the production space. In addition to improving physical processes through automation, manufacturers are also looking to harness the power of digitized data to drive efficiency improvements across operations. Sustainability and the expansion of direct to consumer (DTC) shipping channels for pharmaceuticals are also becoming essential factors in production.

No other east coast event will offer such a wide range of state-of-the-art life sciences packaging and processing solutions as PACK EXPO East (March 21-23, 2022; Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia). With 400 exhibitors, PACK EXPO East provides a convenient and rewarding opportunity for life sciences and consumer packaged goods (CPG) professionals to explore packaging and processing technology, connect with suppliers and find the solutions needed to compete in a changing marketplace. Now in its fifth edition, the three-day regional event has already surpassed the net square footage of years past and stands proudly as the biggest PACK EXPO East in its history.

Long recognized as a hub in the healthcare sector — 80% of U.S. pharmaceutical and biotech companies have a presence in the Philadelphia region — making PACK EXPO East a short drive or train trip away to easily connect life sciences companies with suppliers providing targeted solutions.

Free education on the show floor provides opportunities for attendees to talk with suppliers and learn about best practices and industry breakthroughs. The Innovation Stage consists of 30-minute sessions presented by industry experts each day, including sessions specifically targeting applications that would enhance healthcare operations. The Forum returns with free, 45-minute learning sessions on the latest industry trends, including, small group discussions and Q&A each day of the show tackling critical manufacturing issues, including a deeper dive into Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: Trends Shaping the Future, with white paper contributor Donna Ritson from DDR Communications.

In addition to the opening reception at the close of the first day of PACK EXPO East, multiple networking events will take place during the show, including events hosted by the Packaging & Processing Women's Leadership Network (PPWLN), serving to recruit, retain and advance women in processing and packaging as well as the Emerging Leaders Network. 

The Workforce Development Pavilion is the one-stop-shop for resources to strengthen and grow the future workforce and increase the skills of the current workforce. Learn about PMMI U offerings, including popular training workshops. PMMI Partner Schools will present mechatronics, packaging and processing offerings, and attendees and exhibitors can meet students interested in careers in the industry.

Endorsed by top industry associations, the Association Partner Pavilion brings together a valuable mix of professionals, enriching the connections and encouraging industry-wide collaboration. Participating associations include the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA), Institute of Packaging Professionals, the Contract Packaging Association, Flexible Packaging Association, OMAC – Organization for Machine Automation & Control, the Foundation for Supply Chain Solutions (F4SS) and more.

To register, search education sessions or research life sciences suppliers at the show, visit packexpoeast.com.