24/7 BIOPHARMA - issue 1 / October 2024

FLAMMA USA

Choosing the right Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) is crucial to the successful development of a new API. The marketplace is competitive and complex, but the author offers an intriguing comparison between CDMOs and the automotive industry. Just as automakers rely on third-party suppliers to craft essential parts while retaining control over the final product and brand, pharmaceutical companies trust CDMOs to oversee the manufacturing of life-saving drugs. Where auto help us move with the cars they build, CDMOs are driving innovation in healthcare with the drugs they provide. With deep insight into pharma supply chains and industry expectations, the author provides a fresh perspective shaped by experience, positioning themselves as a valuable resource—much like a key automotive supplier—helping ensure smooth production and top-tier quality. When growing up, you learn about cars from your parents. For example, my father loved Fords and hated Chevy’s. Why? My father said that Fords were dependable and Chevrolets always broke down. Was this true? I had no idea. As I grew older, I became more curious about cars and the companies that

made them. As one gained experience as a driver, I naturally started to form my opinion about auto makers. For example, I began to notice the various tiers of auto makers. For luxury cars, many people gravitated to brands like Mercedes and Rolls-Royce. For sports cars, many felt that Ferrari, Maserati and Porches were the best. The decision to buy a car often included where the car was made. Was it made in the USA or was it made elsewhere such as in Europe or Japan? This was always a great discussion in a household where one’s father was a card-carrying union member. Remember when Kias first came out? Built in South Korea, they were constantly maligned for their mechanical problems. Today, one can argue they have done a fine job to solve these issues and become a very solid brand. Alternatively, the Yugo came and went. People were just not able to accept a cheap car that was not dependable. The Yugo has been called the worst car ever made.

Reputation or experience or both?

When deciding to buy your first car, you have multiple choices. Do you go with what you know or

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TWENTYFOURSEVENBIOPHARMA Issue 1 / October 2024