Case Study: Simplifying a Complex Temperature-Sensitive Supply Chain, The impact of a collaborative approach

Introduction

In the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring the integrity of temperature-sensitive products during transportation is paramount. A leading pharmaceutical manufacturer faced significant challenges in shipping a crucial oncology drug through a complex global supply chain. This case study explores how a collaborative approach with GEODIS and TOWER Cold Chain Solutions led to the successful implementation of a new thermal packaging solution, streamlining the supply chain and enhancing product integrity.

Background

A major pharmaceutical company needed to transport a temperature-sensitive oncology product from the UK to over 30 global destinations, including Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and North America. The existing thermal packaging solution was proving inadequate, with frequent temperature excursions and logistical inefficiencies.

Challenges

The client faced several critical challenges:

1. Unique Pallet Size: The EU drug pallets were taller than the standard size, complicating logistics.
2. Temperature Excursions: Frequent temperature deviations with the existing active solution risked product integrity.
3. Packaging Availability and Lead-Time: There were issues with the availability and lead time of the packaging solutions.
4. Cost Reduction: The need to lower overall shipping costs was a driving factor.
5. 3PL Involvement: GEODIS, the third-party logistics provider, required a strong partnership with the thermal packaging provider to ensure a robust supply chain.

Solution

The pharmaceutical manufacturer and GEODIS assessed multiple thermal packaging solutions against preset criteria. TOWER Cold Chain Solutions’ KTM range of passive thermal shipping containers emerged as the optimal choice. The KTM containers excelled in maintaining temperature, ensuring product compliance, ease of use, lead-time availability, and cost-effectiveness.

To enhance supply chain efficiency, a KTM hub was established at the GEODIS facility in Manchester. This hub facilitated better packaging availability and compliance times, addressing the client’s critical needs.

Benefits

The implementation of TOWER’s KTM passive thermal shipping containers brought several key benefits:

1. Enhanced Reliability: The KTM containers ensured consistent temperature control, protecting the integrity of the temperature-sensitive oncology product.
2. Operational Efficiency: By establishing a KTM hub in Manchester, lead times were dramatically reduced. GEODIS could offer “same-day” availability of KTM units, a unique service in the market.
3. Cost Savings: The switch to KTM containers helped reduce overall shipping costs while maintaining high standards of temperature control.
4. Seamless Integration: Training and collaboration ensured a smooth integration of KTM containers into the existing supply chain, with staff feeling more involved and motivated.
5. Regulatory Compliance: GEODIS’s GDP accreditation with the MHRA added regulatory assurance, enhancing the credibility of the transportation process.

Insights from Project Partners

Tony Doyle, National Account Manager, GEODIS:
“The process of trialing various passive solutions provided greater insight into the market. Collaboration between the shipper, us, and the container provider ensured a robust and successful solution.”

Niall Balfour, Managing Director, TOWER Cold Chain Solutions:
“Clear communication and building confidence with the GEODIS team were critical. Establishing a local service center in Manchester reduced lead time and improved efficiency.”

Richard Dudbridge, Global Sales Manager, TOWER Cold Chain Solutions:
“Efficiency savings and skill expansion have been significant. The KTM systems have positively impacted daily operations.”

Pete Parker, Warehouse Supervisor, GEODIS:
“The comprehensive training and easy-to-follow SOPs made the transition to KTM containers seamless.”

Simon Smith, Warehouse Operative, GEODIS:
“Effective communication and clarity around objectives have built a successful partnership, ensuring a team effort for a team result.”

Conclusion

The collaboration between the pharmaceutical manufacturer, GEODIS, and TOWER Cold Chain Solutions exemplifies how innovative thermal packaging solutions can transform complex supply chains. The implementation of TOWER’s KTM containers not only resolved the challenges faced but also set a new standard for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical transportation. This case study highlights the importance of partnership, clear communication, and innovative solutions in achieving supply chain excellence.

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