FROM TRACEABILITY REGULATIONS COMPLIANCE TO A CUSTOMIZED SERVICE: A SUCCESS STORY WITH FERRING PHARMACEUTICALS
New Testing and Validation software and a better supply of Spare Parts
At Antares Vision Group, we pride ourselves on delivering tailored solutions that meet regulatory requirements and enhance our clients’ operational efficiency. One of our notable success stories involves our long-standing collaboration with Ferring Pharmaceuticals.
In this case study, we explore how we developed and implemented a new approach to testing and validating track and trace lines and devised an efficient spare parts management strategy.
With Fernando Monteiro, Global OT Applications Senior Manager at Ferring Pharmaceuticals, we share insights into this collaborative journey.
About Ferring Pharmaceuticals
Ferring Pharmaceuticals, headquartered in Switzerland, is a leader in reproductive medicine, maternal health, and specialty areas within gastroenterology and urology. The company distributes its products in 110 countries and operates 12 R&D centers and 13 factories worldwide. Ferring is committed to helping people live better lives.
The Collaboration
Antares Vision Group’s partnership with Ferring began in 2015. Today, the solution is implemented on 23 lines across packaging sites in Switzerland, the USA, China, the Czech Republic, Israel, Scotland, and Indonesia. This long-term relationship has been crucial in navigating the evolving landscape of pharmaceutical serialization.
Challenges and Solutions
Fernando Monteiro highlights the general experience with our solution:
“We faced challenging times in the growing serialization world. Regulations have evolved over the years, sometimes making it difficult to maintain our production schedule while implementing necessary changes. However, with a strong relationship with Antares Vision Group, we succeeded in keeping our products compliant with the regulations of every country we serve.”
The latest challenges Ferring needed to address were twofold:
- Spare Parts Management: Ensuring the availability of spare parts to keep hardware operational.
- Testing and Validation: Implementing new software releases efficiently through thorough testing and qualification.
Spare Parts Management
Ferring and Antares Vision Group identified that many sites use the same components. Stocking spare parts for each site would be extremely expensive; however, not having spare parts on hand could threaten business continuity. To address this, the team established a centralized list of spare parts that covers the needs of all sites. These parts are stored at Antares Vision Group’s facility in Italy, allowing for shipment within 1 to 3 days, depending on the factory location. This solution significantly reduces potential downtime and maintains operational efficiency.
Testing and Validation
In the pharmaceutical industry, packaging lines are controlled environments that require all changes to be tested and documented beforehand. An emulator approach was developed to support Ferring’s testing and qualification activities on Antares Vision Group systems. An offline emulator kit mirrors all existing line configurations, enabling comprehensive testing and validation without disrupting production schedules. This method ensures that any updates can be implemented smoothly and independently from production activities.
Impact on Business
The results of these initiatives have been significant:
Spare Parts Management: In a worst-case scenario, delivery times for spare parts have been reduced from 240 days to just 1 to 3 days, depending on the factory location.
Testing and Validation: The emulator approach allows complete independence from production schedules, ensuring seamless updates and compliance.
Conclusion
Our collaboration with Ferring Pharmaceuticals exemplifies how customized solutions can address specific business challenges while maintaining regulatory compliance. By focusing on efficient spare parts management and innovative testing and validation methods, we have helped Ferring enhance their operational agility and business continuity.
If you want to learn more, take a look at the full case history and watch the video interview with Fernando Monteiro.