UK packaging innovator Burgopak has joined forces with Brecon Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of AmerisourceBergen, one of the world's largest pharmaceutical services companies, in a deal that will improve the production of pharmaceutical packaging.
Until now, Burgopak has relied on hand assembly to build its pioneering packaging. But once Brecon, which has been chosen as the contract packer, takes delivery of specialist machinery from leading manufacturer Bosch Sigpack, production will be automated. Each new machine will be capable of producing a minimum of 20 million units annually, compared with the 26 million units delivered by Burgopak to date.
Burgopak's new equipment is due to be delivered in the coming months, ready for the start of production in Spring 2008.
Initially, the machinery will be used to assemble PocketPaks - sliding single and double-sided blister packs containing ibuprofen and paracetamol - for retail pharmacies. A number of leading pharmaceutical companies have expressed interest in PocketPaks, and negotiations are in progress.
Burgopak's packaging employs a patented operating system that presents the product in a sliding tray. The packaging is simple to handle, and the unique design lends itself to customer and product safety.
The Burgopak machine will deliver high production efficiency by combining core technologies in product handling, feeding systems and carton forming with the patented processes for operations unique to Burgopak packaging.
"The automation heralds a new and exciting phase in Burgopak's history, and we look forward to meeting the anticipated high demand for our innovative packaging," said Patrick Heininger, Burgopak Group ceo.
