2024 Special Leading Minds Network Report: The Evolving Pharma Cold-Chain

Overall Outlook:

The pharma cold chain is expected to see above-average growth due to the shift towards biologics and global pharma growth.
Market data supports this with IQVIA and http://ResearchandMarkets.com reports predicting growth in the coming years.
Despite some cutbacks in the CGT sector, the overall industry remains promising with the development of new therapies and increasing use of biosimilars.

Industry Evolution:

There is a significant expansion of capacity and service offerings, with companies like World Courier, DHL, and Kuehne+Nagel investing heavily.
Acquisitions are happening, with examples like Envirotainer acquiring va-Q-tec and Cryoport acquiring Bluebird Express.
Technology advancements are improving efficiency and service, with features like longer temperature holding times, reusable containers, and real-time IoT data monitoring and predictive analytics that enable dynamic risk assessment with examples like ELPRO-BUCHS AG and Smart CAE’s predictive analytics tool.
Challenges remain, particularly in establishing global standards and achieving complete supply chain visibility.

Sustainability:

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important, with companies like World Courier setting ambitious emission reduction goals.
Electric vehicles, alternative container materials, and sustainable aviation fuel are being explored to reduce the environmental impact of cold chain logistics.

Conclusion:

The pharma cold chain is a dynamic and growing industry with the resources to meet the challenges of new drug modalities, sustainability, and cost control.
Pharma product managers can be confident that experienced logistics providers and technology are available to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of their products.