January/February 2026 Vol. 33 No. 1 A Binsted Publication VETTER LAUNCHES V-OVS ® TAMPER-EVIDENT SYRINGE CLOSURE SYSTEM Exhibitions & Events 2026 February MD&M West 3-4 February 2026 Anaheim, CA, USA www.mdmwest.com Paris Packaging Week 5-6 February 2026 Paris, France www.parispackagingweek.com The Packaging Conference 9-11 February 2026 Austin, TX, USA www.thepackagingconference.com Packaging Innovations 11-12 February 2026 Birmingham. UK www.packagingbirmingham.com Pack Expo East 17-19 February 2026 Philadelphia, PA, USA www.packexpoeast.com Empack Dortmund IntraLogisteX 18-19 March 2026 Birmingham, UK www.intralogistex.co.uk PCHi 18-19 March 2026 Hangzhou City, China www.pchi-china.com ISPE Aseptic Conference 23-24 March 2026 Arlington, VA, USA wispe.org/conferences/2026-ispe- aseptic-conference Packaging Waste & Sustainability Forum 24-26 March 2026 Brussels, Belgium informaconnect.com/packaging-waste- sustainability Cosmoprof 26-28 March 2026 Bologna, Italy www.cosmoprof.com CPHI Japan 21-23 April 2026 Tokyo, Japan www.cphi.com/japan May interpack 7-13 May 2026 Dusseldorf, Germany www.interpack.com June CPHI Americas 2-4 June 2026 Philadelphia, PA, USA www.cphi.com/americas ProPak Asia 10-13 June 2026 Bangkok, Thailand www.propakasia.com September 25-26 February 2026 Dortmund, Germany www.empack-messen.de Gulf Print & Pack PPMA March ProPak Vietnam October Luxe Pack Los Angeles 4-5 March 2026 Los Angeles, CA, USA www.luxepacklosangeles.com PACKINNO 4-6 March 2026 Guangzhou, China www.packinno.com Sino Label 4-6 March 2026 Guangzhou, China www.sinolabelexpo.com ASEAN Flexible Packaging Summit 10-11 March 2026 Jakarta, Indonesia packaging.apexevents.cn Aicomp Summit 11-13 March 2026 Vienna, Austria summit.aicomp.com 31 March - 2 April 2026 Dubai, UAE www.loupe-global.com/gulf-print-pack 31 March - 2 April 2026 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam www.propakvietnam.com SITL 31 March - 2 April 2026 Paris, France www.sitl.eu Korea Pack 31 March - 3 April 2026 Goyang, South Korea www.koreapack.org April Luxe Pack Shanghai 14-15 April 2026 Shanghai, China www.luxepackshanghai.com Empack Gorinchem 14-16 April 2026 Gorinchem, Netherlands www.empack.nl 22-24 September 2026 Birmingham. UK www.ppmashow.co.uk Pack Expo 18-21 October 2026 Chicago. IL, USA www.packexpo.com November UK Packaging Expo 10-11 November 2026 Liverpool, UK www.ukpackagingexpo.co.uk AllForPack Emballage 24-26 November 2026 Paris, France www.all-for-pack.com If you would like your exhibition, conference or event listed, contact: editorial@binstedgroup.com SCHOTT PHARMA POLYMER CARTRIDGE PLATFORM Schott Pharma continues its collaboration with SHL Medical and pre-validates the ISO-standardised polymer cartridge with SHL Medical’s large-volume autoinjector platform. The Schott Toppac ® polymer cartridge is the first in Schott Pharma’s polymer product portfolio to meet both ISO dimensions and the global RTU standard, Schott iQ ® . Polymer solutions come into play when medications have special requirements, such as low silicone levels or deep-temperature storage, for example. Schott Pharma and SHL Medical conducted compatibility studies that assessed both dimensional as well as functional fit of the Schott Toppac ® polymer cartridge with Maggie ® autoinjector platforms. The joint assessment confirmed the full system compatibility. This includes the 3ml Schott TOPPAC ® cartridge with Maggie ® 3.0ml and the 5ml Schott Toppac ® cartridge with Maggie ® 5.0 ml autoinjector. The polymer cartridges are suitable for safely storing and administering highly sensitive biologics, including cell and gene therapies, biosimilars, and emergency medications. “Thanks to our collaboration with SHL Medical, we’ve taken a big step forward in offering a complete solution to pharma companies”, says Andreas Reisse, CEO of Schott Pharma. This milestone enables access to a pre-validated and de-risked solution for the safe and convenient administration of large-volume medications at home, supporting self-injection for a wide range of therapies. CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 03 NUTRACEUTICAL BLENDING CYCLES CUT With increasing demand for its health and wellness nutraceutical supplements, A&Z Pharmaceutical built a 2483m 2 wing and production line here dedicated to nutraceutical products that were previously produced at another site. The company cut blending times on a new production line over 90 percent by opting for Rotary Batch Mixing over the V-cone blending employed on other lines. “Chiefly, A&Z needed uniform blends of dry ingredients without compacting them,” says Marian Vija, director research & development. “We make claims of uniformity for all the actives in our formulations and have to meet those claims in the final product - capsule, tablet, and powder drink.” The company also desired shorter mixing cycle times with no product damage or segregation of materials. The V-cone blenders did the job on the existing calcium and vitamin D production lines but typically were taking 45 to 60 minutes per batch to achieve the desired uniformity, prompting the purchase of a 1133L capacity stainless steel model 700-TS-40-SS Rotary Batch Mixer from Munson Machinery. The unit contains internal mixing flights that tumble, cut, turn and fold the batch, causing particles to recombine 288 times per minute, achieving batch uniformity in four minutes, or 11 to 15 times faster than the company’s V-cone blenders. The company also gained production flexibility, as the mixer is equally efficient from 100% down to 15% of rated capacity. On the production line, an operator starts the empty mixer and uses a drum lift to transfer ingredients from fibre drums into the mixer’s stationary inlet in a prescribed order, following the steps in the master batch record. “Half of the time they are very fluffy materials that would occupy the whole volume of the machine. So we load them in and add another material to reduce the volume,” explains Vija. For products intended for tablets or capsules, a dry lubricant such as magnesium stearate powder is added to the ingredients. This is a critical parameter in the mixing procedure, because one gram of the additive can lubricate 7 to 9 m3 of material. Excessive lubricant or overmixing will prevent product particles from sticking together in tableting. Adding lubricant extends the mixing time in the Rotary Batch Mixer by about half a minute, versus five minutes in the V-blenders. “The shorter mixing time makes overmixing and/or over-lubricating less likely,” says Vija. The blended batch is unloaded into the same fibre drums in which the ingredients arrived. Lined with GMP compliant plastic bags, the drums are staged beneath the mixer’s discharge gate and filled as one operator at the control panel adjusts the mixer to rotate slowly, while a second operator positions each fibre drum below the gate. A&Z established a protocol that complies with FDA Good Manufacturing Practices for sanitising and preventing cross- contamination. Once the mixing 04 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update vessel is emptied, it is put under vacuum to remove residual dust. Large access doors on opposite sides of the mixing vessel are then opened and any remaining product is vacuumed, after which the interior is pressure washed with hot water, and the vessel is rotated for several minutes. After the water is drained, a hot-water cleaning solution is added, and themixer is rotated for several additional minutes. That solution is removed and the interior is again hosed down and drained and/or softly brushed as necessary. For a final rinse, hot water is added and the blender is rotated for several minutes,then drained. One litre of 70% isopropyl alcohol is then added, the mixer is rotated 10 times and drained. This step is then repeated, after which the mixer is dried under vacuum for two hours, and ready for another cycle. The large doors of the vessel allow unobstructed access for cleaning and visual inspection of all product contact surfaces, which Vija says can be accomplished without moving the drum. Actual A&Z nutraceutical ingredients were tested at the manufacturer’s facility using a laboratory-sized Rotary Batch Mini Mixer, with four minutes established as the optimum mixing time. A&Z also performed content uniformity studies on commercial batches made in the Rotary Batch Mixer in production. “We obtained excellent results: uniformity and a good mixing procedure,” Vija says. “The blends are suitably robust for compressing and encapsulation.” www.munsonmachinery.com PCHI 2026 RETURNS The Personal Care and Homecare Ingredients (PCHi) trade show will take place 18–20 March 2026 at the Hangzhou Grand Convention & Exhibition Centre, offering global beauty and personal care professionals’ direct access to China’s fast-advancing innovation ecosystem. Organised by Reed Sinopharm Exhibitions (RSE), the 2026 edition will present an expanded conference program alongside a comprehensive showcase of technologies and solutions from around the world. China continues to be one of the most influential markets in the global beauty and personal care industry. According to data from the Industry Research Centre of the China Association of Fragrance, Flavour and Cosmetic Industries (CAFFCI), cosmetics retail sales in the first half of 2025 reached CNY 548.8 billion, marking a 4.33% year- on-year increase. The country’s steady growth driven by demand for technologically advanced, personalised, and high-performance products is shaping research direction regulatory development, and product standards well beyond its borders. As China’s innovation pace and technical maturity accelerate, global companies increasingly look to the market for early signals that influence formulation strategies, ingredient investment, compliance planning, and long-term product development. PCHi serves as a critical gateway for international professionals seeking to understand these shifts firsthand, offering clarity on how China’s scientific and regulatory directions intersect with global trends. The PCHi Annual Industry Conference 2026 will bring together academics, R&D leaders, regulatory specialists, and technical experts from around the world. Conference sessions will cover formulation science, ingredient technologies, dermatology research collaboration, light medical aesthetic skincare, makeup innovation, fundamental research, regulatory developments, sustainability, global market access, AI-driven innovation, and more. Discussions will examine advances in Asia and beyond. “With the PCHi conference, our aim is to deepen understanding of China’s evolving innovation ecosystem and support global professionals as they navigate opportunities in a market that increasingly influences the direction of the worldwide personal care industry,” said a RSE spokesperson. The main forum, Insight into Industry Trends: Strategising Future Development Tracks, will anchor next year’s conference with a forward-looking examination of China’s cosmetics raw materials landscape. Speakers will explore macro trends, emerging technologies, and cross-disciplinary innovation shaping product development in the year ahead. Alongside the main forum, PCHi 2026 will feature an extensive lineup of sub-forums designed to address the sector’s scientific, regulatory, and market priorities. Beyond the conference halls, PCHi 2026 will feature a broad exhibition of ingredients, technologies, packaging innovations, testing solutions, and advanced manufacturing approaches. Exhibitors will include multinational suppliers, leading domestic innovators, and emerging technology companies, offering visitors an overview of developments shaping the next generation of beauty and personal care solutions. Industry professionals are invited to pre-register for PCHi 2026 for complimentary access and updates on the full program. Pre-registeation: bit.ly/PCHi2026PreReg www.pchi-china.com/en CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 05 SMARTER WORKFLOWS FOR CONVERTERS Sarah Ervin, Digital Printing Technical Product Manager, Domino Printing Sciences How can converters keep up with the pace and complexity of these demands? Smarter digital workflows are key to staying agile and competitive. The short-run label market is growing fast, with businesses globally valuing the flexibility and agility enabled by small print batches. As a result, companies are looking to enhance product portfolio differentiation to support regional language and regulatory variations, as well as to meet the demands of e-commerce business models. As a result, multi-SKU production of more frequent, smaller volumes is rapidly replacing traditional bulk runs. For converters and brands, this shift supports the push to destock as part of sustainability strategies: reducing bulk warehousing of substrates and printed labels to help minimise waste from obsolescence. While the benefits are compelling, the demands of short-run label production are complex. Converters must respond faster, handling more frequent requests for jobs with smaller label volumes a demand that inevitably leads to bottlenecks. Manual set-up, ensuring colour accuracy and print registration, is time-consuming and can result in significant material waste before achieving the desired output quality. And, of course, correct setup and testing rely on skilled human labour, minimising the risk of expensive errors that disrupt production and damage profitability. With even repeat orders requiring extensive manual set-up, attempting to embrace short-run label printing using analogue technology creates challenges that will undermine productivity and profitability. Converters increasingly recognise the flexibility and agility enabled by digital presses as key to thriving in the modern label landscape, but investing in the technology is just the starting point: it is also vital to create effective workflows to maximise efficiency. Working with a digital printing supplier to understand how best to rethink and adapt label production processes and workflows can be key to accelerating digital adoption success and boosting press utilisation. Digital workflows can address many operational challenges by streamlining processes and reducing the risk of errors. For instance, being able to access preconfigured settings for commonly used materials significantly reduces media waste during setup, as well as provides an average 30-minute time saving per job when using a digital platform compared to an analogue one. In addition, instead of preparing every file individually for print, modern pre-press workflows use ‘hot folders’, enabling operators to import artwork and automate repetitive tasks. These presets allow enhanced colour management, perform ‘step and repeat’ layout, and add finishing marks, eliminating the need for manual adjustments, and ensuring repeatability, while high-speed RIP allows jobs to reach the press quickly. 06 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update Digital workflows also include file management capabilities that enable convenient archiving and recall of recurring customer jobs. This enables exact reruns of orders with minimal effort to replenish customer stock. Streamlining pre-press tasks with smart tools like these supports fast turnaround of print jobs, maximising production time. By embracing digital workflows, converters can limit the number of human touchpoints, accelerate processes, and reduce the risk of costly mistakes. To fully benefit from the speed, agility, and efficiency digital printing offers, and maximise the return on their digital investment, many converters need to step out of their comfort zone and challenge established analogue practices. By embracing digital printing technology and workflows, converters can respond to short-run label opportunities in a timely and profitable manner. Reducing lead times for artwork changes from months to days enables brands to be more responsive to emerging trends and to continuously improve their packaging promotions over time. Adopting digital workflows positively impacts daily operations. A slick, efficient short-run label model will enable the sales team, for example, to respond swiftly to customer demands and provide an edge in winning new business. Sustainability goals can be enhanced through effective digital processes that reduce wastage. Skills shortages can also be addressed, with easy digital setup enabling fast onboarding of new operators who no longer require print industry- specific skills. Converters that embrace a digital mindset can continually improve, not only optimising operations but also gaining a stronger competitive advantage. Production can be optimised, at both job and run level, often automatically. Grouping multiple SKUs – even from different customers – on the same substrate and dies to print as one run on a single roll maximises efficiency. Cutting and rewinding labels in batches also reduces finishing time, further supporting the agility required for short runs. Digital workflows can also integrate with MIS systems, importing files or exporting production data for analysis. Short-run label printing is not just here to stay; it is fundamentally transforming the packaging landscape. It enables brands to explore innovations in design with frequent artwork changes, embracing customisation with 2D codes to boost consumer engagement, whilst complying with regulatory demands. www.domino-printing.com TSC AUTO ID RAMPS UP VERSATILITY AND USABILITY OF DESKTOP BARCODE LABEL PRINTER FOR HEALTHCARE AND LABORATORY ENVIRONMENTS To meet anticipated market growth of RFID technology in healthcare, TSC Auto ID has just expanded the capabilities of its TH Series 4-inch desktop label printer by not only building in RAIN (UHF Passive) RFID functionality but also improving its usability and ribbon replacement. “RAIN RFID is being increasingly used in healthcare settings to not only keep tabs on laboratory samples, high value pharmaceutical inventories and medical assets but also to trace patients, especially for memory-care,” says Bob Vines, TSC Auto ID’s Country Manager for the UK, Ireland and the Nordics. “Up until now, RFID functionality on the healthcare version of our 4-inch TH Series was only available as a plug and play upgrade but we’ve built it in. This means hospitals, care homes, GP surgeries, and laboratories can immediately start benefitting from the many benefits that RFID brings like improved traceability and data visibility, cost curbing and minimising human error,” suggests Bob. The rugged healthcare version of the TH Series, the TH240THC, was launched in 2024 and is encased in white, antimicrobial, easy-to-disinfect plastic. Integrated RFID functionality is not the only thing that’s been added. “We know healthcare workers need to operate in clean environments, so have developed a new ribbon cartridge for the TH240THC that allows users to change the ribbon without coming into contact with any messy wax or resin. The printers have been specially modified to accommodate the new cartridge, ensuring easy and mess-free installation.“ Other features added to the TH240THC, which further increase its usability and effectiveness at printing diverse and media include: • Encode during print: enhances printer throughput by encoding RFID labels directly rather than needing a separate encoding process. • Support for diverse labels: supports different constructions, including on- metal labels. • RFID auto-calibration: automatically configures the printer for accurate and optimal RFID encoding and printing. The TH240THC is ideal for healthcare facilities, veterinary practices and laboratory organisations to scale up applications to meet present and future operational needs. The new capabilities only add to its versatility, enabling technicians to conquer many and varied label challenges with ease. www.tscprinters.com CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 07 AUTOPACK’S SEMI-AUTOMATIC BUCKET Autopack has launched a semi- automatic bucket line to drive efficiency for customers. The modular system eliminates the manual effort of separating and orientating empty buckets from a stack. It also lowers the initial cost compared to a fully automatic system. Users can construct a bucket line suited to their specific needs. This can consist of a bucket de-nester, bucket sealer, filling system, lid de- nester and lid pressing roller. Each item can be added later if required. The line is usually built around the filling system of choice, liquid doser, powder filler or a range of weighing options. The user-friendly semi-automatic operation is based on manual infeed and outfeed of containers. “There are numerous advantages to automate but not every business has the same needs, so the semi- automatic route is often a good starting point,” said Autopack Managing Director Wayne Kedward. “Our semi-automatic bucket line is well placed to help businesses take their first step on the road to automation; an affordable, bespoke and modular solution.” The most popular line-up of equipment available on the line includes a Lid Pressure Roller for round, square, oval and rectangular buckets up to 400mm in diameter. The driven pressure drum for sealing the bucket can be continuously adjusted in height ranging from 40mm to 400mm using a handwheel with a height indicator. The pressure roller is equipped with an input guide plate at the front and rollers at the rear to prevent the buckets from tipping over. Other benefits include the 1,000mm conveyor belt, which is driven by a drum motor and made from blue plastic modular links. In addition, the integrated weigh cell with advanced software controls the delivery of the product into the bucket maximising speed and accuracy. The filing operation can be performed manually via push buttons or automatically via the autoFill function with the filling process starting automatically when the correct container is detected. The stand beside the column can be manually adjusted in height for optimal alignment with the dosing valve. The weighing platform (400x400mm, height approximately 800mm) can include a central drain hole for spilled liquids or a recovery tray for powders and solids. Constructed from stainless steel 304, it is easy to clean and resistant to intensive industrial use. “The modular options for the semi-automatic bucket line give customers flexibility, as well as improved speed and efficiency,” added Jonathon Stewart, Autopack UK Sales Director. “At time when manufacturers from all industries are feeling the pinch, solutions to reduce costs and wastage can make a real difference.” www.auto-pack.co.uk 08 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update REVOLUTIONISING TEMPERATURE CONTROL Insulation is safety critical in pharmaceutical factories, where hot pipes and equipment pose a significant burn risk to workers. Yet traditional approaches often fall short in terms of durability and longevity and can be expensive to install and maintain. Thermal insulation coatings (TIC) have the potential to replace bulky materials, such as mineral wool, that are easily damaged and can pose a hygiene risk. Just a relatively thin layer of these easy to apply, easy to maintain solutions can keep exterior surfaces safe to the touch, even in the tightest of spaces. What’s more, conventional methods are expensive to install due to them needing to be welded around pipework to maintain a hygienic seal. They can be TICs are emerging as a safer, smarter alternative to fragile, necessitating frequent repairs, and risk-based conventional insulation systems. inspections, in which materials are removed to inspect for signs of SCC, are not only labour-intensive, but In the world of pharmaceutical manufacturing, where also tend to require the wholescale shut down of hot pipes and machinery are ubiquitous, insulation plays production processes. a critical role in workplace safety. Just a few seconds of incidental contact with a hot surface, whether that’s a TICs are an innovative new approach with the potential pipe, ductwork, or tank, is enough to blister and burn to replace systems such as mineral wool. They work skin. Such injuries, which can be severe or even life- by lowering the skin stimulation temperature, i.e. both threatening. the surface temperature and the rate of heat transfer, of surfaces, thereby reducing the risk of burns and all Effective insulation is key to keeping people safe as they their consequences. go about their duties. It creates a barrier that reduces heat transfer from hot surfaces to the skin. In addition, But they also are easy to clean, and resistant to mould, it helps minimise heat loss or gain, ensuring products bacteria, and contaminants, which enhances hygiene and stay within safe temperature ranges, and keeps energy quality standards. consumption and costs to a minimum. Applied onsite, by brush, spray or trowel, for fast Yet traditional approaches, such as mineral wool seamless coverage on pipework, tanks and associated cladding, come with challenges. When condensation equipment, TICs provide long-lasting protection from penetrates the barrier, the “dry” insulation heat, corrosion, and abrasion. They are quick and easy becomes “wet”. to install, even in small or difficult to reach areas, and treated installations can be moved from risk-based to This can create major hygiene problems with visual only inspection. traditional insulation harbouring bacteria such as listeria that can lead to major problems in busy TICs are redefining how the pharmaceutical industry pharmaceutical factories. It also poses the threat of manages their heat-related risk mitigation. By directly stainless-steel stress corrosion cracking (SCC), that can reducing surface temperatures, they help eliminate create major failure and extended downtime in very burn hazards at source, improving equipment safety, busy environments, as well as reducing the insulation while also reducing installation and maintenance costs. material’s thermal resistivity (R-value). And as the R-value goes down, the risk of burns goes up. protective.sherwin-williams.com/uk CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 09 INDIA’S FIRST SINGLE-SERVE The new packaging solution reduces contamination risk and SPOUTED POUCH improves ease and convenience Zydus Lifesciences Ltd., a global innovation-driven lifesciences company, and SIG, entered into an agreement to pioneer packaging of liquid cough and cold medication in single-serve spouted pouches featuring the tethered spout solution SIG StrawCap 30 Linked and the SIG Motion Servo 3.2 filling technology. This launch marks a significant advancement in pharmaceutical packaging, delivering precisely dosed medicine, improved hygiene, and reduced product waste. Abdelghany Eladib, President & General Manager, India, Middle East and Africa at SIG: “We are proud to be taking this step together with Zydus, bringing to market an innovation with substantial potential in the pharmaceutical sector. Single- serve spouted pouches for pre-portioned pharmaceuticals, such as cough syrup, position us as frontrunners in the industry and represent a significant advancement in both patient comfort and safety.” The new packaging solution for Zydus’ “Deriphyllin CoughGo” enables 5ml and 10ml mini- portions of ready-to-consume medicine in spouted pouches, also known as siplets. Traditionally, cough medications are offered in multi-serve bottles, where precise dosing is often difficult or leads to product waste when unused medicine expires before the packaging is emptied. Zydus’ move to single-serve spouted pouches directly addresses these issues by offering convenient, portable, and unbreakable alternative, where a precise dosage is delivered in the pouch. for patients. No spoons, syringes, or other tools are required, making this solution ideal for use on the go. Single-serve spouted pouches for pre-portioned pharmaceuticals, such as cough syrup, position us as frontrunners in the industry At the core of this innovation is SIG StrawCap 30 Linked, a tethered spout solution with a straw included. It enables direct, mess-free consumption without the need for additional straws or dosing devices. The solution combines all convenience features of a conventional spouted pouch closure combined with the benefit of a very lightweight and resource- efficient design. It uses 3x less plastic compared to a conventional pouch closure with cap. This makes SIG StrawCap 30 Linked a cost- effective, resource-saving, and equally environmentally conscious solution, as the cap remains attached to the pack, increasing the chance of avoiding plastic litter. The solution is set to be combined with SIG Terra RecShield film in the future, fully designed for recycling. The spouted pouches are formed and filled using SIG’s Motion Servo 3.2 HFFS machine, with patented servo technology for high-precision filling. “With SIG Motion Servo 3.2 installed at Zydus and SIG StrawCap 30 Linked, we are transforming how liquid medications are delivered – making them easier to dose, safer to consume, and less likely to go to waste,” said Christoph Wegener, Chief Markets Officer at SIG. “Our partnership with Zydus shows how the right technology can solve real challenges in healthcare delivery.” For Zydus, the adoption of single- serve spouted pouch solutions reflects its commitment to bringing meaningful innovation to the Indian healthcare market. The spouted pouches enhance dosing accuracy, reduce contamination risk, and significantly improve convenience for patients. “Our goal at Zydus is to make effective medication more accessible and consumer-friendly,” said Dr. Sharvil P. Patel, Managing Director, Zydus Lifesciences Limited. “Continuing with our patient-centric approaches, we are introducing Deriphyllin CoughGo in single-serve spouted pouches utilising SIG’s advanced filling technology. We have always championed innovation that brings greater convenience for our patients and with this launch we set a new standard for safe intake of medicine which also helps in reducing product waste in India.” Dhandutt Shah, Managing Director India for SIG’s bag- in-box and spouted pouch business: “We are excited to collaborate with Zydus to introduce single-serve spouted pouches to India’s pharmaceutical sector, combining SIG’s advanced spouted pouch technology with a shared commitment to quality, safety, and patient wellbeing. This innovation not only benefits manufacturers, it improves the everyday lives of consumers.” www.sig.biz +49 2462 790 VETTER REACHES KEY LAUNCH MILESTONES FOR THE V-OVS ® NEXT TAMPER-EVIDENT SYRINGE CLOSURE SYSTEM Developed from extensive market feedback, this new closure system will feature several important updates: intuitive handling, innovative functionality and a premium design, that fits a wide range of syringe formats. Together these advances will further enhance the protection and usability V-OVS ® next offers for applications across a broad range of markets such as ophthalmology, aesthetic injectables, diluents, and biologics. partners and received consistently encouraging responses that reinforce our confidence in this launch.” After a robust, multi-cycle development process, Vetter has finalised the design of V-OVS ® next and initiated industrialisation. As part of that process, Vetter will provide its primary syringe glass suppliers with NFHU materials for further implementation and testing across a range of syringe formats. While the earlier evaluation focused on product and user- related feedback, the second Human Factors study additionally included a use related risk analysis to confirm that V-OVS ® next Vetter has completed two more important verification steps of its own: After successfully completing a first Human Factors study earlier in 2025, a second Human Factors study and a key Functional Study have both delivered positive results for V-OVS ® next. “With the first biopharma customers already giving positive feedback, we’re excited to see market uptake by some glass suppliers,” says Lars Hahn, Senior Vice President Global Sales Organisation at Vetter. “We’ve already had successful conversations with multiple value chain 12 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update Vetter has completed several important steps in the ongoing development and upcoming launch of V-OVS ® next enables safe and effective handling. After evaluating the closure system’s usability and comparing it with the original V-OVS ® closure, study participants confirmed: V-OVS ® next is a user-friendly design that offers an enhanced user experience with a differentiating look and feel. “Our goal was to combine safety, usability, and design in a way that truly benefits the user of the system,” says Dr. Claus Feussner, Senior Vice President Development Service at Vetter. “The positive results from both usability and performance evaluations confirm that V-OVS ® next delivers on these objectives.” BEST IN CLASS SOLUTIONS AT PACKAGING INNOVATIONS AND EMPACK 2026 Autopack will showcase a range of its automated and semi-automated equipment at Packaging Innovations and Empack 2026. Visitors are welcome to visit stand V132 to find the right solution for their packaging formats and materials. EXHIBITING A RANGE OF INNOVATIVE EQUIPMENT There will be wide variety of products on display, including: An SV30-USD Sealer; A100 VFFS with four-head Mini Weigher; A DV1100 Depositor operating with a gated conveyor; a Semi-Automatic Bucket Machine; and a Mini Auger. The SV30-USD is a semi-automatic vertical continuous band sealer. An operator feeds bags or pouches into the band mechanism which draws the pack through sealing jaws, hermetically sealing the pack using heat and pressure. The semi-automatic machine can operate at speeds of 15 metres per minute and will operate in a twin head configuration at the show. The A100 Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) is the simplest and most compact of Autopack’s VFFS range, designed for small-medium pillow packs. Compatible with all product types it is used in every sector but is most commonly used in the food industry to pack coffee, flour, chocolates, cereals and grains. This will be displayed with a four-head Mini Weigher. A DV1100 will be running, which is a depositor incorporating a volumetric piston filler with a range of 70ml to 1100ml. With food grade seals, and stainless-steel construction, this depositor is perfect for filling liquids for all industries including the food and beverage sector. It will run with a gated conveyor for glass jars at the show. The Semi-Automatic Bucket Machine drives efficiency for customers in food, household, pet food, chemical, pharmaceutical and personal care. It also lowers the initial cost compared to a fully automatic system. Rounding off the machinery is a Mini Auger machine designed for the accurate and efficient packing of powders and granular materials. STAND V132 Jonathon Stewart, Sales Director at Autopack UK comments; “Packaging Innovations and Empack is the perfect platform to highlight our innovations in the sector. We can interact with key decision makers from big name retailers and brand owners, as well as start-ups looking for advice on what packaging automation technology best suits their product.” FOR MORE INFORMATION  info@auto-pack.co.uk |  01432 677000 www.auto-pack.co.uk “Our expertise makes us well- placed to assist across a wide range of sectors. Whether it’s powders, liquids, solids, or something in between, we have the knowhow to provide bespoke solutions. Our aim at Packaging Innovations and Empack is to engage with the market and help them understand how Autopack can automate their packaging process to be smarter, faster and more efficient.” Jonathon Stewart Autopack UK Sales Director TAKING ON THE RESPONSIBILITY OF DELIVERING RESULTS! Follow us on LinkedIn Search AUTOPACK LIMITED or scan the QR code GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS RACE TO MODERNISE AMID DISRUPTION, ACCORDING TO LOFTWARE RESEARCH Loftware, a leader in product identification and supply chain transparency, announced the release of its 2026 Top 5 Trends Report, revealing that businesses worldwide are moving urgently to modernise their supply chains in the face of unprecedented disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, and increasing regulatory demands. Drawing on insights from more than 400 supply chain professionals across 55 countries, the report highlights a decisive shift toward connected supplier networks, real-time packaging intelligence, and AI-enabled automation as organisations work to strengthen resilience and stay competitive in an unpredictable global landscape. “The future of supply chains will be defined by agility and intelligence,” said Jim Bureau, President & CEO of Loftware. “Our research shows that organisations adopting connected networks, cloud platforms, and AI-driven insights are not just surviving disruption but turning it into opportunity. By modernising today, companies can anticipate challenges, act in real time, and create supply chains that are smarter, faster, and ready for whatever comes next.” The research underscores how volatility has become the defining feature of today’s supply chains. Yet many organisations remain unprepared: according to Gartner data, only 29% of companies are ready to manage the next wave of supply chain challenges. At the same time, financial pressure is intensifying. Among companies surveyed with a revenue of $1bn or more, 50% expect tariffs or trade restrictions to cost them over $1m in the coming year, with nearly one in five anticipating an impact exceeding $10m. “Our research shows that organisations adopting connected networks, cloud platforms, and AI- driven insights are not just surviving disruption but turning it into opportunity” - JJim Bureau President & CEO Loftware standards with trading partners would help them respond faster to disruptions; an indication that the industry is moving quickly toward more collaborative and connected networks. Organisations that have already adopted such models report measurable gains, including 48% citing faster problem resolution and 37% citing reduced operational costs. The findings also reveal that geopolitical uncertainty is forcing businesses to rethink compliance strategies. Many organisations still struggle to adapt product data and labelling processes to new tariffs or regulatory changes, with 63% of $1B+ companies calling these adjustments “very” or “somewhat difficult.” As supply chains move through reshoring, nearshoring, and multi-sourcing, cloud-based labelling is essential for accuracy and compliance across shifting supplier networks, helping companies avoid costly delays, border holds, and penalties. According to the report, companies are responding by accelerating investment in solutions that unify supplier ecosystems, ensure consistent and compliant product data, and reduce the operational friction caused by siloed processes. Consumer expectations are driving transformation as well. Smart packaging, powered by real-time label data, dynamic QR codes, and connected product information, is emerging as a critical tool for improving engagement, sustainability, and operational efficiency. Nearly 70% of respondents believe that sharing label data and According to the research, 91% of respondents believe real-time label 14 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update data helps reduce waste, errors, and improves efficiency. Companies view enhanced traceability (64%) and improved consumer engagement (44%) as the top benefits of connected packaging, illustrating how brands are beginning to treat packaging not just as a regulatory requirement, but as a strategic channel for data, transparency, and customer experience. Authenticity and traceability are now essential in modern supply chains, accelerated by initiatives like Digital Product Passports and next generation 2D barcodes. With consumers, regulators, and trading partners demanding verifiable product information, 88% of respondents say cloud-based product identification platforms establish a single source of truth to ensure accurate tracking, traceability, and authenticity. The research illustrates that strengthened traceability improves compliance (43%), visibility (40%), audit readiness (34%), and counterfeiting protection (27%). Loftware’s report shows that autonomous supply chain technologies are gaining traction. Powered by SaaS-based labelling platforms, AI analytics, and integrated data, these systems help detect disruptions earlier, optimise logistics in real time, and automate error-prone processes. Seventy- five percent of respondents use SaaS-based labelling for resilience, citing benefits like higher efficiency (41%), fewer errors (37%), lower waste (33%), and faster response (30%). As companies face greater complexity across supplier networks, these capabilities will play a central role in building supply chains that are not just connected, but intelligent and self-optimising. The full report is available to read on Loftware’s website: www.loftware.com SÜDPACK MEDICA LAUNCHES MEDHUB SÜDPACK Medica has introduced a new service called MedHub. Effective immediately, customers can conveniently order high- quality, pre-made pouches in standard sizes and defined batch quantities - by phone, email, or online. Manufactured in ISO- certified cleanrooms, the MedHub packaging solutions are always in stock and fulfill the stringent quality requirements of the healthcare industry. With a strong customer focus and reliable delivery. whether on a requested date or just in time, MedHub is the go-to solution for medical facilities and suppliers needing standard pouches quickly and with minimal effort for efficient, secure product packaging. At its newly extended facility operated in ISO 7 in Coulmer, France, SÜDPACK Medica has streamlined its operations to enable prompt order handling and fast shipment of stocked products. The pre-made pouches can be used at various stages of the pharmaceutical value chain - for example, to package products such as stoppers, filters, or connectors. They are also frequently used as simple transfer packaging for items such as glass vials, ampoules, or syringes, which are essential for administering liquid parenterals like infusions – and must therefore remain completely sterile prior to filling. In addition to Tyvek roll stock, the current portfolio focuses on three-side seal pouches made from film and Tyvek – sterilisable, puncture-resistant, and highly resistant to moisture. These pouches provide excellent barrier properties for maximum product protection and allow fast, clean opening, even in high-pressure environments, thanks to the material’s superior peelability. For heavier products, SÜDPACK also offers three-side seal pouches made of PA/PE in various sizes. These pouches provide a dependable microbial barrier and are also suitable for gamma sterilisation. The pouches, manufactured under cleanroom conditions, are permanently in stock and can be ordered online at any time. To ensure maximum quality, safety, and regulatory compliance, SÜDPACK Medica provides all relevant certifications. More information about MedHub is available at SÜDPACK: MedHub. The new service is targeted at customers who require an ongoing supply of standard products for their daily packaging needs – and who value convenient ordering and short delivery times. CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 15 ADELPHI MASTERFIL ACQUIRES KARMELLE Karmelle has joined the Adelphi Group of Companies, an award- winning, family-owned UK manufacturer and supplier of packaging machinery and equipment. This strategic step reflects Adelphi’s ongoing commitment to delivering the very best in British engineering and customer service. Part of the Adelphi Group since 2007, Adelphi Masterfil designs and manufactures high-performance liquid filling and capping machinery, and complete turnkey production line management for full-scale manufacturing. The company is best known for its highly regarded Masterfil range of filling machines and Mastercap capping machines, which offer reliability, precision engineering, and robust performance. Karmelle has earned a strong reputation over the last 35 years for precision-built machinery, reliability, and long-standing customer partnerships, which will complement and enhance Adelphi’s existing capabilities. Karmelle’s former owners are working closely with the Adelphi team to ensure a seamless transition for employees, customers and ongoing projects, with uninterrupted service. Chris Wilson, Managing Director of Adelphi Group, said: “Karmelle’s acquisition marks a significant milestone for the Adelphi Group. Adelphi Masterfil and Karmelle share a deep commitment to UK manufacturing excellence, engineering innovation, reliability, and long-standing customer partnerships. By bringing the teams and technologies together, Adelphi and Karmelle will offer customers more comprehensive, end-to-end solutions.” REQUALIFICATION AS A STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITY FOR SUSTAINABLE PHARMACEUTICAL PACKAGING Requalification is often viewed as a critical though inconvenient disruption in pharmaceutical operations, essential for ensuring product quality, consistency, and safety. But beyond its compliance function, this planned downtime presents a strategic opportunity to rethink packaging processes and implement innovative solutions that enhance sustainability and efficiency, explains Ian Chapman, Strategic Manager - Digital Coding at Domino Printing Sciences. Pharmaceutical companies are facing mounting environmental pressure. According to American Pharmaceutical Review it is estimated that pharmaceutical manufacturing contributes roughly 52 million tonnes of CO 2 annually via packaging and operations. The implications are not only regulatory and financial; consumer and investor scrutiny is also driving change. Consumers are increasingly assessing companies’ environmental performance and approximately 70% are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging options. waste and unused resources. The use of pre-printed materials, risk- averse stock levels, and inefficient changeovers remains widespread. Even worse, when regulators change requirements or artwork evolves, entire batches of packaging often become obsolete overnight. Together, these factors are driving soaring demand for sustainable pharmaceutical packaging, with the market set to soar from $92bn in 2024 to $372bn by 2034, at a CAGR of 15%. This surge underscores that sustainability is no longer optional - it’s essential. Volatility within supply chains also adds to the challenge: pharma manufacturing increasingly demands agile models that support small batch sizes and late-stage customisation. Embracing inline digital printing systems lets manufacturers print on demand, eliminating stockpiles and mitigating wastage. For example, using blank foils with inline digital print not only removes the need for pre- printed stock but also reduces inventory complexity. Many The challenge for pharmaceutical manufacturing goes beyond a shift towards sustainable packaging materials: long-standing packaging practices contribute to excess 16 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update LEADERSHIP TRANSITION AT VETTER Vetter announced the retirement of its Managing Director Thomas Otto, who stepped down at the end of 2025 after more than 35 years at the company. Through his clear leadership and commitment, Thomas Otto was instrumental in shaping the sustainable development and continued growth of the company. As a partner to global biopharmaceutical companies for the production of life-enhancing medicines, Vetter’s success is partially due to his strong and reliable leadership alongside his management colleagues. “Thomas Otto has decisively advanced our family business with his vision, innovative strength and great sense of responsibility. His contribution to Vetter’s development and internationalisation is outstanding and deserves the highest recognition,” says Senator h.c. Udo J. Vetter, Chairman of the Advisory Board and member of the owner family. “For more than three decades, he was a reliable designer, initiator and bridge builder - both within the company and externally. On behalf of the Vetter family and the advisory board, I would like to manufacturers over order between 15% and 20% of pre-printed foils for each product line, resulting in significant waste – an inefficiency eradicated by blank-foil workflows. Requalification inevitably causes disruption. The smart approach is to treat it not as downtime, but as a strategic opportunity for continuous improvement. Inline digital printing systems also support pharmaceutical manufacturers to achieve the agility demanded by constantly evolving regulations and local adaptations to support a global market. To avoid expensive and frustrating bottlenecks, pharmaceutical packaging processes must adapt swiftly, avoiding lengthy changeovers or new tooling. Requalification is an ideal time for manufacturers to modernise with inline digital printing systems in order to align packaging with ESG goals, operational resilience, and regulatory demands. And collaboration is critical: partnering with experts who bring validated pharmaceutical technology, and a cooperative approach helps ensure scalability, accelerated return on investment, and reduce risk. Leveraging adaptable digital technology allows updates to languages, graphics, or regulatory text to be made in real time, enabling smaller batch runs, localisation, and rapid adaptation. Modern connected solutions offer cloud-enabled capabilities that can minimise downtime and accelerate time-to-market, crucial for patient needs and regulatory demands. thank him for his extraordinary commitment and lasting impact on our success story.” The planning for the new structure of the Vetter management team had already started Long-term experienced Vetter executives Henryk Badack, Titus Ottinger and Carsten Press were appointed to the Management Board as Managing Directors at the beginning of 2025. With their in-depth understanding of the company, its customers and the industry, they are making a significant contribution to Vetter’s sustainable future and the trust towards the owner family. Requalification doesn’t have to mean falling behind. In fact, if treated strategically, it can accelerate the transformation of pharmaceutical packaging operations into a more efficient, sustainable, and future-proof state. The industry is moving regulations, markets, technologies are evolving. Research from Mordor Intelligence states that the digital packaging printing market is forecast to grow from $34bn in 2025 to $56bn by 2030, a CAGR of over 10%. More brands are moving away from analogue prints to plate- less workflows to enable mass customisation, reduce waste, and simplify changeovers. Another powerful benefit is that digitalisation dramatically reduces lead times for artwork changes. Historically, approvals and printing could take weeks or months. Digital workflows, however, can compress this timeline – getting lines back up and running and revenue flowing again, much faster. By taking the opportunity to upgrade technologies and workflows during the requalification window, pharmaceutical manufacturers can reduce waste, improve responsiveness, and build long-term operational resilience. CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 17 LABS TO LIFESTYLES: THE FUTURE OF BEAUTY INNOVATION The beauty industry is entering a new age one defined less by colour palettes and packaging, and more by code, cells, and conscience. As consumer expectations evolve, brands are shifting from artistry and aesthetics toward science-driven, ethical, and personalised innovation. Today’s beauty breakthroughs are as likely to come from a biotech lab or an AI model as from a perfumer’s studio, signalling a profound transformation in how products are created and experienced. Across laboratories worldwide, formulators are rethinking every aspect of development from how ingredients are discovered to how sustainability is built in from the start. This is the future of beauty: intelligent, responsible, and deeply attuned to the individual. Artificial intelligence is rapidly redefining what’s possible in cosmetic science. Machine learning models now predict ingredient interactions, simulate texture and viscosity, and optimise stability long before the first prototype is made. These tools allow formulators to identify potential synergies and performance issues in silico, dramatically reducing trial-and- error cycles. Automated compounding systems are bringing unprecedented speed to formulation labs, enabling dozens or 18 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update even hundreds of micro‑formulations per day in some high‑throughput environments. At the same time, digital twins virtual models of ingredients or entire formulas let teams simulate performance and optimise products before a physical sample is made. Industry analysis indicates that generative AI has the potential to significantly accelerate formulation cycles, trend forecasting, and product adaptation at scale. Professional formulation bodies are also observing the growing role of AI-driven ingredient selection and performance modelling across R&D workflows. Together, these advances are tightening the link between early scientific exploration and commercial innovation. Biotechnology is central to the shift toward sustainability-driven formulation. Fermentation-derived actives, sugar-based surfactants, and lab-grown collagen offer alternatives to resource-intensive or animal- derived ingredients. Meanwhile, waterless and solid formats once niche are gaining broader acceptance for their lighter environmental footprint and convenience. Research into biomanufacturing indicates that precision fermentation can significantly reduce carbon intensity compared with traditional extraction methods. Industry literature also highlights how bio-based production improves ingredient consistency and traceability key foundations for credible responsible sourcing claims. Market outlooks suggest that biotech-driven formulation will continue to shape the next decade, particularly as brands work toward measurable sustainability outcomes. “Sustainability has matured from a claims-based narrative to a systems-based approach,” said a spokesperson from Reed Sinopharm Exhibitions. “The conversation is no longer about whether the industry should act, but how to redesign formulation, sourcing, and supply chains around long-term environmental intelligence. The most progressive brands are embedding circularity at the molecular level and rethinking performance itself through the lens of future impact.” This reframing signals that sustainability is no longer a standalone initiative it is now a core design principle shaping both the chemistry and the culture of modern beauty. the user experience not merely aesthetic add-ons. Meanwhile, movements such as “skinimalism” and “slow beauty” reflect a preference for fewer, higher-quality products. Advances in biotechnology and AI-driven ingredient discovery allow brands to deliver actives that produce meaningful results without complex layering. This shift prioritises thoughtful formulation, authenticity, and holistic care, reflecting a new standard for wellness-infused beauty. The relationship between beauty and well-being is also deepening. Consumers increasingly seek products that support both skin function and emotional experience. Digital tools are rapidly reshaping how products are evaluated and experienced. Ingredient traceability systems and digital product passports are giving consumers greater visibility into sourcing, environmental footprint, and quality standards. Brands design microbiome-friendly formulations that reinforce the skin’s natural defences. While manufacturers apply neurocosmetic approaches to evoke calm, focus, or comfort. They now treat the sensorial qualities of texture, absorption, and scent as central to On the personalisation front, AI-powered diagnostic platforms can analyse skin condition with remarkable precision, while augmented reality applications allow users to preview finishes and textures before applying a single sample. As sustainability and performance claims become more scrutinised, transparent substantiation has become increasingly important. Digital traceability supports this expectation of clarity and trust. CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 19 24 - 26 March 2026 Thon Bristol Hotel Brussels, Belgium The Future of Sustainable Packaging in Europe Uniting Europe’s packaging sector with regulators for 33 years. AMERICAN HERBAL PHARMACOPOEIA PUBLISHES KAVA RHIZOME & ROOT MONOGRAPH The American Herbal Pharmacopoeia® (AHP) has released its long-anticipated Kava Rhizome & Root monograph, marking a watershed moment in the global dialogue on noble kava’s role as a safe, culturally significant, and pro-social beverage. This comprehensive scientific and ethnobotanical review provides regulators, industry leaders, and consumers with a clear framework for understanding both the safety and the benefits of noble kava. The monograph’s conclusion underscores what Pacific Islanders have known for centuries: when used appropriately and responsibly, noble kava is safe. The document affirms that the most common adverse effect from high-volume, long-term use is ‘kava dermopathy’ (kani kani), a reversible and rare skin condition. Importantly, large-scale reviews demonstrate that concerns about hepatotoxicity, which led to near- global restrictions two decades ago, are exceedingly rare, often idiosyncratic, and associated with the use of organic solvent extracts and non-noble kava use. Both traditionally prepared noble kava and safe, food-grade CO 2 extractions have consistently shown strong safety profiles when consumed as intended. The AHP review consolidates decades of clinical trial data and traditional knowledge, showing that noble kava compares favorably to many commonly used foods and dietary supplements when consumed responsibly. Research consistently finds that adverse effects are rare, mild, and often indistinguishable from placebo, reinforcing noble kava’s status as a safe, pro-social beverage when consumed responsibly. Enjoy a 20% discount with code IBP20 The release of the AHP Kava Rhizome & Root monograph is expected to serve as a cornerstone reference for governments, public health authorities, and industry stakeholders worldwide as they seek balanced, evidence-based approaches to regulating and promoting noble kava. SEVEN NEW MEDICINES RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL EMA’s human medicines committee (CHMP) recommended twelve medicines for approval at its December 2025 meeting. The committee recommended granting a conditional marketing authorisation for Anktiva (nogapendekin alfa inbakicept), for the treatment of adults with a type of bladder cancer that affects the lining of the bladder (non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, NMIBC) and that is at high risk of growing and spreading. Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers in the European Union (EU), affecting over 200,000 people each year, with most cases being NMIBC. The CHMP recommended granting a marketing authorisation for Aumseqa (aumolertinib), for the treatment of EGFR-mutated non- small cell lung cancer. Exdensur (depemokimab) received a positive opinion from the CHMP for the treatment of a particular type of asthma called severe eosinophilic asthma, and for severe chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, an inflamed lining of the nose and sinuses with swellings in the nose. The CHMP adopted a positive opinion for Myqorzo (aficamten) for the treatment of adults with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a disease in which the muscle in the main pumping chamber of the heart becomes thickened or enlarged, which can block the flow of blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The committee recommended granting a marketing authorisation for Mnexspike (COVID-19 mRNA vaccine), for the prevention of COVID-19 in people from 12 years of age. The committee adopted positive opinions for two biosimilar medicines: Gotenfia (golimumab), for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis and ulcerative colitis. Ranluspec (ranibizumab), for the treatment of neovascular age- related macular degeneration, visual impairment and other retinopathies. 104 NEW MEDICINES RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL; 38 HAD A NEW ACTIVE SUBSTANCE In 2025, EMA recommended 104 medicines for marketing authorisation. Of these, 38 had a new active substance which had never been authorised in the EU before. This includes medicines representing important innovation or contribution to public health, such as the first medicine to treat non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, a first-in-class treatment to delay the onset of stage 3 type 1 diabetes in children and adults, and the first oral medicine to treat postpartum depression following childbirth. EMA also recommended 16 medicines for rare diseases, including the first medicine to treat Wiskott- Aldrich syndrome, a rare, inherited disease of the immune system, that affects almost exclusively males, and a disease-modifying gene therapy applied as a topical gel to treat wounds in patients of all ages with a rare condition that makes the skin very fragile (dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa). EMA also adopted three positive opinions for medicines for use in countries outside the EU, including a medicine for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in combination with safer sex practices to reduce the risk of sexually acquired human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection in adults and adolescents. This medicine will facilitate PrEP uptake and compliance because it only has to be administered twice a year via a subcutaneous injection. There were also 41 recommendations for new biosimilar products. Biosimilars are interchangeable with reference products, making them a core part of the healthcare system for managing costs and expanding access to essential treatments. CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 21 EMER COOKE, EMA’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: 2025 ACHIEVEMENTS IN MEDICINE REGULATION 2025 was a special year for EMA, its staff and the whole European Medicine Regulatory Network, as it marked three decades since the inception of the Agency, three decades of progress in science and medicines across the EU. This year is also special because it sets us up for a bright future ahead. The agreement on the new pharmaceutical legislation is a historic milestone for medicines regulation in Europe and for patients across the EU, a golden opportunity to become more agile and efficient. Our direction is clear: a fast path from innovation to safe and effective medicines. Towards this vision, in 2026, we will focus our efforts in three areas: First, we will take advantage of the strengthened legislative framework to reimagine how EMA works. We have a unique opportunity to adapt our regulatory system to deal with rapid scientific and technological advances, while increasing efficiency through smart digitalisation and use of artificial intelligence. Second, we will intensify our support for innovation for public and animal health. We will further enhance our early development support to enable new medicines to be authorised in the EU as rapidly as possible. Third, we will continue to invest in our staff and build the network of tomorrow. This investment in the European medicines regulatory network’s workforce will help build capacity and capability so that we can fully embrace the new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. At the end of the year, we can look with pride at its achievements. In 2025, we recommended 104 new medicines for human use. Almost 40% of them contain a completely new active substance. In the veterinary area, we recommended a record-breaking 30 new medicines, among them several new vaccines. There were many remarkable new treatments, both in human and veterinary medicine, and let me highlight just a few: - the first treatment to delay the onset of stage 3 type 1 diabetes in adults and children from 8 years - the first treatment against Duchenne muscular dystrophy in patients from the age of six who can walk - the first vaccine in the EU to protect adolescents from the age of 12 against Chikungunya - two new bluetongue vaccines to protect sheep and cattle Beyond the evaluation of new medicines, we recommended changes to the way the antibiotic azithromycin is used in the EU 22 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update to minimise the development of antimicrobial resistance. We also recommended measures to minimise the risk of suicidal thoughts with finasteride and dutasteride medicines, used by men to treat androgenetic alopecia. EMA, the Commission and the Heads of Medicines Agencies set new ambitious targets to increase the number of multinational clinical trials taking place in the EU. We also launched a new clinical trials map in all EU languages to provide patients and healthcare professionals with easy access to comprehensive, real- time information about clinical trials conducted in their area. The strength of a coordinated system is key to addressing the shortages problem at EU level. The launch of the European Shortages Monitoring Platform in January 2025 provides a strong technical backbone for our work with EU national authorities and actors across the supply chain to prevent and manage shortages. We embraced new partnerships and strengthened the ones we have, to rebuild trust in science. Timely, clear and accurate health information - delivered with empathy and targeted to the needs of diverse audiences - is crucial to our public health mission. NEW DATA ON ANTIMICROBIALS SALES AND USE IN ANIMALS IN THE EU The second European Sales and Use of Antimicrobials for Veterinary Medicine (ESUAvet) annual surveillance report is now published, consolidating data from the EU including Iceland and Norway in 2024. Together with the report a new dashboard is launched allowing public access to data on the sales of antimicrobial veterinary medicinal products (VMPs) across the EU. “With ESUAvet, we are not just collecting data - we are building trust, enabling action, and contributing to a healthier future for all. Reliable data support smarter decisions and safer communities. By turning data into insight, we empower countries to take informed action against antimicrobial resistance,” said Ivo Claassen, Head of Veterinary Medicines Division at EMA. In 2024, 98% of total sales of antimicrobial VMPs were for food- producing animals. Sales for this group increased by 5% compared to 2023. These results suggest that the overall declining trend observed between 2010 and 2022 may be slowing down or reversing. More data will be needed in the future to determine whether this reflects a lasting shift or a temporary fluctuation, which can be caused by factors such as stockpiling, disease outbreaks or changes in animal population. Continued close monitoring and timely reporting will be essential to support corrective actions, if needed. and turkeys, marking a strategic shift towards more granular and actionable insights. Variability between countries still limits EU-level aggregation, but countries are working hard to improve the completeness and granularity of their use data. It is important that these efforts continue, as these data offer new opportunities to understand consumption patterns and guide targeted interventions. Alongside this report, ESUAvet is launching a new interactive dashboard. This tool offers broad public access to antimicrobial VMP sales data, empowering stakeholders - from policymakers to the general public - to explore and understand trends in veterinary antimicrobial consumption patterns to support decision making. While sales data remain a reliable proxy for estimating antimicrobial consumption in food-producing animals, actual consumption is monitored through use data reporting, now in its second year for cattle, pigs, chickens, EMA AND FDA SET COMMON PRINCIPLES FOR AI IN MEDICINE DEVELOPMENT EMA and the U.S. FDA have jointly identified ten principles for good artificial intelligence (AI) practice in the medicines lifecycle. The principles give broad guidance on AI use in evidence generation and monitoring across all phases of a medicine, from early research and clinical trials to manufacturing and safety monitoring. The principles are relevant for those developing medicines, as well as for marketing authorisation applicants and holders. They will underpin future AI guidance in the different jurisdictions and support enhanced international collaboration among regulators, organisations setting technical standards and other stakeholders. Guideline development in the EU is already underway, building on the EMA AI reflection paper published in 2024. The use of AI technologies across the medicines lifecycle has increased significantly in recent years. AI holds great promise as a tool to accelerate the path from innovation to safe and effective medicines. The new pharmaceutical legislation accommodates the broader use of AI in the lifecycle of medicines in regulatory decision- making and creates additional possibilities for testing innovative AI driven methods for medicines in a controlled environment. To realise these benefits, AI needs to be expertly managed. As AI continues to evolve, a principles-based approach will help regulators, pharmaceutical companies and medicines developers harness the potential of these technologies while ensuring patient and animal safety and regulatory compliance. CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 23 HIGHLIGHTS OF DECEMBER 2025 MEETING The Management Board opened its meeting welcoming the political agreement reached by the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union on the new EU pharmaceutical legislation. The legislation represents a historic milestone for European medicines regulation and for patients across the EU, creating significant opportunities to strengthen Europe’s position as a leader in pharmaceutical innovation. The Board adopted EMA’s work programme for 2026, which sets out the Agency’s priorities for the coming year. While EMA will continue to ensure the highest standards in the evaluation and supervision of human and veterinary medicines, work during 2026 will focus on intense preparation for the changes introduced by the new EU pharmaceutical legislation, supporting innovation for public and animal health and investing in developing our staff across the European medicines regulatory network. As EMA carries out its work across these three areas, it will seize opportunities to modernise the regulatory system in response to rapid scientific and technological advances, enhancing efficiency through digitalisation and artificial intelligence, while expanding early development support to enable new medicines to be authorised in the EU as rapidly as possible. The Board adopted the final programming document for 2026- 2028 (to be published at the end of January 2026) and the preliminary programming document for 2027- 2029. The Agency’s budget for 2026 was also adopted, increasing by 2.6% compared to 2025 to over 615 million euros, driven primarily by increased fee income from the growing product portfolio of centrally authorised products. The Board adopted a governance structure to guide and oversee EMA’s implementation of the pharmaceutical legislation and its impact on the network. A new group, including representatives from EMA, the Management Board and the European Commission, will oversee work across workstreams on the centralised procedure and committees, development support, environmental risks, quality and manufacturing, shortages and other regulatory and legal aspects. Both the centralised procedure/ committee and development support workstreams will also include civil society representatives (patients and healthcare professionals). This integrated approach aims to ensure close coordination between EMA, the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP), the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) and the Coordination Group for Mutual Recognition and Decentralised Procedures (Human) (CMDh), the Commission, the European medicines regulatory network and stakeholders, throughout the implementation of the new legislation. The Commission updated the Board on the proposals for a revision of the Medical Device 24 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update Regulation ((EU) 2017/745) and the In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Device Regulation ((EU) 2017/746), which assign new responsibilities to EMA regarding the management of medical device expert panels, to work with the Commission to set up and manage an IT system for reporting and sharing information on supply interruptions or discontinuation of critical medical devices. This would also provide support to the national competent authorities for medical devices to facilitate the exchange of experience, cooperation and coordination in certain areas. The Board also welcomed the publication of the Commission’s proposed Biotech Act, which is designed to further boost biotech innovation and research in the EU and includes several amendments to the EU Clinical Trials Regulation. Dr Sabine Scherer, chair of EMA’s Paediatric Committee (PDCO), updated the Board on key activities of the PDCO in 2025, emphasising efforts to facilitate the development of paediatric medicines. She noted that the 2007 EU Paediatric Regulation has significantly augmented the development of medicines for children, resulting in an increased range of treatment options. Nevertheless, children remain underrepresented in clinical development, which is still leading to delayed access to innovative treatments and reliance on off-label prescribing. Dr Scherer also underlined the importance of further strengthening patient and healthcare professional engagement in paediatric drug development to improve program feasibility and implementation success rates. Looking ahead, Dr Scherer noted that the new pharmaceutical legislation may create an even more favourable environment for paediatric medicine development, positioning the EU to drive innovation that will benefit children across the region. In the first half of 2026, EMA will launch a competitive tender to extend the work of the Data Analysis and Real World Interrogation Network (DARWIN EU) from 2027 to 2032. DARWIN EU provides the infrastructure, data and tools needed to generate relevant and reliable real-world evidence on diseases, populations and medicine performance across Europe through a federated approach. Since its inception in 2022, more than 100 studies have been initiated and 32 data partners have joined, enabling the use of health data from 188 million patients across 16 European countries to answer research questions around the use of medicines. USE OF PARACETAMOL DURING PREGNANCY UNCHANGED IN THE EU A recent systematic review and meta-analysis published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health has found no evidence that using paracetamol at recommended doses during pregnancy increases the risk of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD or intellectual disability in children. This supports the existing evidence and advice that the EMA issued on the use of paracetamol during pregnancy In the EU, paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) can be used for reducing pain or fever during pregnancy if clinically needed. There is currently no new evidence that would require changes to the current EU recommendations for use. As included in the product information for paracetamol in the EU, a large amount of data from pregnant women who used paracetamol during pregnancy indicates no risk of malformations in the developing foetus or newborns. In 2019, EMA reviewed available studies that investigated the neurodevelopment of children exposed to paracetamol in utero and found that the results were inconclusive, and that no link with neurodevelopmental disorders could be established. When needed, paracetamol can be used during pregnancy. As with any medicine for acute treatment, it should be used at the lowest effective dose, for the shortest possible time and as little as possible. Pregnant women should speak to their healthcare professional if they have questions about any medication during pregnancy. As for all medicines, EMA and the national competent authorities in the EU will continue to monitor the safety of medicines containing paracetamol and promptly evaluate any new data as they emerge. CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update 29 25 STERILINE ACQUIRES INNOVATIVE SECURITY SOLUTIONS Steriline’s acquisition of ISS Srl (Innovative Security Solutions), a firm with strong expertise in machine vision, robotics and artificial intelligence applied to automation, is now complete. Founded in 2006 by Prof. Remo Sala as a spin-off of the Politecnico di Milano, ISS Srl develops 3D vision-based guidance systems for robots, which, over time, have allowed the company to build a distinctive expertise in this sector, developing both robotic systems and highly reliable machine vision technologies. Steriline has been collaborating with ISS since 2014, helping to support and enhance the company’s development by integrating the capabilities of ISS Srl within its industrial vision focused on sterile filling processes for the pharmaceutical market. “We are very proud to have finalised the acquisition of ISS. This new asset allows us to strengthen our position in a rapidly evolving sector where digitisation, AI and advanced automation are redefining production models and quality control strategies,” says Ilaria Fumagalli, CEO of Steriline. “By combining skills, resources and vision, we intend to be key players in this transformation, offering the market solutions that can anticipate the future of production in sterile conditions.” The acquisition consolidates the pre-existing collaboration and lays the foundations for an even more ambitious future, with the aim of developing technologies that can further raise the offered quality, traceability and safety standards. “This corporate transaction, which now makes Steriline Srl the sole shareholder of ISS Srl, represents a strategic step in their shared path of growth and innovation, as they continue to develop technologies in the field of automation for Pharma,” states Pietro Brivio, CEO of ISS Srl. “I am convinced that the contribution resulting from this strong synergy will be fundamental in building this path. Together we can now further shape a project that combines technological growth, innovation and international leadership.” BRAND AND LIFESTYLE CONSULTANT APPOINTED BY SURCARE Surcare, a laundry brand for sensitive skin, has announced Katie Piper OBE as its new Brand and Lifestyle Consultant, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s ongoing relaunch and strategic repositioning. The appointment coincides with Surcare’s new brand redesign and This publication is covered by copyright. No part of this journal may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of the publishers. the launch of its new positioning, ‘Love your laundry. Love your skin,’ which challenges traditional perceptions of laundry and reframes it as an often overlooked, but vital, part of everyday skin care. With a long-standing heritage in creating gentle, dermatologically tested products free from dyes, Published by: The Binsted Group Ltd. Worting House Church Lane Basingstoke RG23 8PY United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1256 263762 Editor: Ed Binsted enzymes and fragrance, Surcare is using this relaunch to reinforce its ambition to lead the conversation around skin-first laundry care. The partnership with Katie Piper reflects a deliberate move away from traditional brand ambassador models, instead placing lived experience and consumer insight at the heart of the brand’s evolution. Editorial editorial@binstedgroup.com Advertising adsales@binstedgroup.com Accounts accounts@binstedgroup.com www.binstedgroup.com