Redefining the outsourced supply chain

Redefining the outsourced supply chain

To state the obvious, contract packaging is rapidly evolving. The core outsourced-packaging function is easily understood, but the form and function of the contract packaging organization is a moving target. Decades ago, a co-packer was defined by the machines the company had on the floor. By Bob Sperber; original post here. Packaging-specific services remain a … Continue reading

Animal-health pharmaceuticals are jumping the ‘ethical channel’

Animal-health pharmaceuticals are jumping the ‘ethical channel’

Loss of sales exclusivity to big-box stores and online pet pharmacies add to veterinarians’ business woes By Bob Sperber, for Pharmaceutical Commerce. On its own, the animal-health business, growing at roughly 5% annually for the past several years, would not be considered a hot investment opportunity. But by comparison with the human-health pharma business—which actually … Continue reading

Store brands: Threat or opportunity?

Store brands: Threat or opportunity?

In January, a Wall Street Journal story, “P&G Needs to Convince Thrifty to Splurge” said that the “real challenge” for Procter & Gamble in combatting poor sales and disappointing new-product launches was to get consumers “to spend more again on the company’s premium-priced products.” By Bob Sperber; original post here. In January, a Wall Street … Continue reading

Pharma: How to prevent ‘agg spend’ sunburn

Pharma: How to prevent ‘agg spend’ sunburn

Implementation of the Physicians Sunshine Act may require you to begin data gathering by Feb. 25, but questions remain over the law’s details, from data to dollars By Bob Sperber for Pharmaceutical Commerce. The reelection of Pres. Barack Obama assured that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA or ACA), signed into law on … Continue reading

With coupons, pharma is saying ‘Let’s make a deal’ to consumers

Pharma marketers become adept at refining coupon and voucher programs, while technology options multiply. Meanwhile payer criticism mounts By Bob Sperber; posted @ Pharmaceutical Commerce. While sampling has been the traditional method of getting patients to try new therapies, the use of coupons or vouchers—often targeted directly to consumers rather than physicians—are on the increase. ” … Continue reading