Advanced pharma solutions – SCHOTT reports successful year for its pharma business unit and sets path for further growth

The packaging and delivery solutions are integral to every drug because they go through the regulatory approval process together. Many pharma companies also rely on different containment solutions to prolong the lifecycle of a drug. For example, a drug may enter the market in a vial and later be stored in prefillable syringes that make it easier to administer. Also, the question of the right packaging material, glass or polymer, is vital. “With new drug categories entering the market, such as mRNA-based formulations, our holistic approach with a broad range of packaging systems, including both glass and polymer options, allows us to find a tailored solution for individual needs,” adds Reisse.

Thinking ahead, SCHOTT supports pharma manufacturers in making the best decision by compiling comprehensive analytics and constantly innovating new packaging solutions. For example, SCHOTT’s latest addition, EVERIC® care vials, features a hydrophobic coating on the inside of the vial that protects highly sensitive drugs, like biologics.

Capacity for sterile solutions increased; Major expansions planned

As market demand for such high-value solutions has been growing steadily, SCHOTT tripled its capacity for pre-sterilized, ready-to-use glass vials in the USA in 2021. Further enhancing the portfolio, the company expanded the capacity of prefillable glass syringes by 50 percent in Switzerland to strengthen the supply of sought-after drug delivery systems. In spring 2022, the new state-of-the-art production site for prefillable high quality polymer syringes will be inaugurated in Germany.

In addition, SCHOTT will be adding further modules to its production network of 16 global plants. In China, the company has recently broken ground for a new module, which is designed to triple the production capacity. The double-digit million Euro project is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2022.

Accelerating industry growth

SCHOTT’s close and longstanding relationships with key drug makers are continuously establishing new partnerships like the joint venture of SCHOTT and Serum Institute of India, the world‘s largest producer of vaccines. “Sensing the pulse of the industry, we encourage opportunities to secure supply of containment and drug delivery solutions and are setting new standards in the industry with our collaborations,” explains Reisse.

Pioneering. Responsibly. Together

These attributes characterize SCHOTT as a manufacturer of high-tech materials based on specialty glass. Founder Otto Schott is considered its inventor and became the pioneer of an entire industry.

Always opening up new markets and applications with a pioneering spirit and passion – this is what has driven the #glasslovers at SCHOTT for more than 130 years. Represented in 34 countries, the company is a highly skilled partner for high-tech industries: Healthcare, Home Appliances & Living, Consumer Electronics, Semiconductors & Datacom, Optics, Industry & Energy, Automotive, Astronomy & Aerospace.

In the fiscal year 2021, its 17,300 employees generated sales of 2.5 billion euros. With the best teams, supported by the best digital tools, the group intends to continue to grow. SCHOTT AG is owned by the Carl Zeiss Foundation, one of the oldest foundations in Germany. It uses the Group's dividends to promote science. As a foundation company, SCHOTT has anchored responsibility for employees, society and the environment deeply in its DNA. The goal is to become a climate-neutral company by 2030.