The global coronavirus pandemic has simultaneously slowed and stimulated innovation.
One of the largest sources of pharma innovation — R&D — has lost speed as major companies delay the start of non-COVID-19 research and clinical trials to free up scientists, doctors and health care facilities to deal with the current health crisis and to protect the health of potential clinical trials participants. At the same time, however, the traditionally conservative pharma industry is pivoting and leaning into digital technology, finding creative ways to work, communicate and share information through digital channels. In addition, companies that were once rivals are now collaborating to sequence virus genomes, improve diagnostic tests, and develop (and eventually manufacture and distribute) vaccines and treatments.
However, when it comes to equipment and technology innovation geared towards the pharma manufacturing industry, many vendors rely on major tradeshows and events to unveil their new offerings. And with all the major industry events being postponed, canceled or digitized (see our “Pharma industry event tracker” for a frequently updated list), the industry has lost its traditional platforms for sharing innovation.
The annual Pharma Innovation Awards are our brand’s way of acknowledging the investment pharmaceutical equipment vendors put into developing and improving their products. The awards are a tribute to those who listen to the needs of the market and their customers, and a result, have distinguished themselves as leaders in equipment and technology.
Traditionally, winners are hand-picked by Pharma Manufacturing editors and reviewers throughout the year as we travel to tradeshows and events. This year, like the rest of the industry, we are pivoting. Our Pharma Innovation Awards and coverage will officially move from our July/August 2020 issue to our November 2020 issue. We encourage vendors with new technologies contributing to advancements in risk reduction, product quality improvement and manufacturing efficiency to reach out to our editors and share your new innovations with us.
Above all, we want to use our platform to help you share your innovation with the industry at a time where new ideas are more important than ever before.