Unique collaboration in the packaging chain for pharmaceutical companies 

As the crow flies, the distance between De Budelse and Sharp Belgium is less than 6 kilometers. It's only a 10-minute drive between Budel and Hamont-Achel in Belgium. It's surprising that initial contact with this global supplier of packaging solutions for the pharmaceutical sector wasn't made until 2022. So it's high time to get acquainted with this packaging specialist just across the border. "After a successful quality audit, the first joint projects have been launched," says supply chain manager Simon Cuypers. "And we have even more plans for collaboration in the future."   

Around 280 enthusiastic employees work at Sharp's Belgian branch in Hamont-Achel. Every day, they strive to deliver high-quality packaging that ensures the health and safety of patients worldwide. "Over more than 60 years, Sharp has grown into a center of expertise in pharmaceutical packaging," Simon Cuypers continues. He has enjoyed working for the company for seven years. "For example, we specialize in assembling and labeling syringes, vials, and auto-injectors. We also handle the packaging design and serial numbering.’ 

Believing in Collaboration

At Sharp, quality, ingenuity, and expertise come together in one dynamic work environment. The company believes in collaboration, both within teams and with customers and partners. The goal is to improve people's lives worldwide. "We believe it's important to build long-term relationships with strategic supply chain partners like De Budelse," Simon explains about the collaboration. "It's very convenient that De Budelse and Sharp are located close to each other. We first exchanged samples to see if there was a match. Then we ran a small project, which also went smoothly. So there's a bright future ahead." 

Focus on quality  

Because Sharp works for pharmaceutical companies, ensuring quality is the top priority in collaborations with partners. For example, it's important that De Budelse, with GMP certification, meets the quality requirements for pharmaceutical packaging of the European Carton Makers Association (ECMA). "You don't want to imagine German boxes ending up on the French market or vice versa," Simon gives an example of this requirement. "The language on packaging and leaflets is crucial for communicating with patients about medicines. If people can't read or understand the message, the health risks can be very high." 

Speed ​​and timing

According to Simon Cuypers, the choice for De Budelse is a logical one. In his view, the fact that both companies speak the same language was decisive. Nuances in mutual communication are quickly picked up. For a dynamic, project-driven organization like Sharp, this is a valuable asset. "Our business model means there's a lot of pressure on new products," he continues. "De Budelse is able to present a dummy package very quickly." We provide feedback on this so that we can fine-tune the final proposal to the client together. At Sharp, we appreciate this. Speed ​​and timing are important factors when we need to provide a quote with a price indication to an existing or new customer.

Communication 

Even though the distance in kilometers and travel time is very small, there are distinct cultural differences between Belgians and Dutch, which are also noticeable in their communication. "Normally, the Dutch are much more direct and assertive than the Belgians," explains Simon. "Fortunately, these differences have become smaller over the past 10 years. Sharp operates much more internationally, has opened a branch in Heerenveen, and also has a melting pot of nationalities at its disposal."