Ropack, provider of contract manufacturing and packaging services to the global pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare industries, has begun stickpack production in its new 15,000ft² dedicated manufacturing suite. The nearly $9m facility provides uni-dose packaging of solid oral dosage in four Class 100000 clean rooms, each ensuring low relative humidity (20%), controlled temperature and controlled residual oxygen to 4%.
In addition to state-of-the-industry equipment and technology, the Ropack team has considered every detail to ensure product integrity. For example, mechanical rooms are positioned so that there is no interference from outside elements. Flow of product and personnel ensures cleanliness and efficiency. Strict procedures and documentation are followed to maintain the highest standards.
“We have taken every step to ensure that our new dedicated suite far exceeds what is available elsewhere to our clients,” says Yves Massicotte, Ropack’s president and CEO. “It is our goal to be the top North American facility for stickpack production and packaging of all humidity- and temperature-sensitive products.”
Ropack’s project manager, Patrice Joly, agrees. “We have taken extraordinary measures to protect our clients’ products and the people who use them.”
Stickpacks – slim, tube-shaped packets approximately the size of a stick of gum – have significant consumer acceptance in Europe and Asia. Ropack is taking a primary role in advancing stickpacks in the North American market. “Stickpacks are a convenient and highly marketable packaging option, so we are enthusiastic about spearheading efforts in North America,” says Paul Dupont, director of business development. “I believe we can provide the pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare industries the highest level of quality and efficiency in stickpack packaging.”
The new production suite is part of Ropack’s 210,000ft² of manufacturing, packaging, warehouse and distribution space. In addition to stickpacks, Ropack is equipped to perform standard and cold-form blistering, encapsulation, bottling, sachet filling, syringe assembly, clinical trials and blending.
The launch of the facility coincides with Ropack’s 35th anniversary.