With a UK distribution network delivering twice daily to thousands of independent pharmacy shops, reliability of supply and access to both ex-stock and bespoke packaging products is vitally important for pharmaceutical wholesalers in ensuring the timely movement of prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Following an initial request from the client to assess the packing operation’s efficiency at one of its sites, Antalis, a leader in B2B distribution of papers and industrial packaging, was subsequently appointed to review operations and supply products and services to all of the company’s 20-plus sites.
Approaching their relationship with the client as a partner rather than a supplier, Antalis took the time to understand each of the sites’ differing needs and set-up. To fulfill these varying needs, Antalis offered a following range of solutions.
Just-in-time delivery
To ensure the client has access to the products it needs when it needs them, Antalis guarantees to deliver within an agreed timescale. This, in turn enables the client to offer its pharmacy customers first-rate service.
Reliability of inventory
Antalis monitors stock levels of the client’s core packaging materials, advising them when inventory is running low so that new stock can be ordered and supplied on time. This service has been hugely important over recent weeks, ensuring they did not run short of essential packaging products.
Bespoke and ex-stock packaging solutions
While off-the-shelf products are sufficient for much of the needs, Antalis claimed that it could fulfill the need for bespoke packaging. While face-to-face consultations might prove difficult in the current climate, Antalis has set up a virtual Smart Packaging Centre to ensure it is still able to discuss ideas, develop solutions to challenges and run live demos of pack designs.
Flexible service
When the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry is under pressure, Antalis offers the flexibility of service that ensures it can help the client meet unanticipated requirements at short notice.
Ongoing advice and support
Antalis supported this client in optimizing its packaging operation by advising on new packaging materials and technologies to improve efficiency. Among the recommendations, Antalis has made is the introduction of Pregis Pro Pak’R and Mini Pak’R air cushioning machines to improve efficiency and throughput of products packaged and ready for transit.
Alongside an extensive product range, Antalis claimed to help to bring its clients peace of mind through value-added services including stock holding, flexible deliveries, consultancy and advice, online ordering, tailor-made solutions and services, conversion, and repacking samples and testing, and key account management.
Alan Frampton, Antalis Packaging regional sales manager, commented, “The benefit of our partnership approach and support services has come into its own for this client as they step-up their activity to meet current and future demand.”
