Uhlmann India expands its footprint with new facility and Pharmazing India Days

On October 16, 2024, Uhlmann India inaugurated its new facility in Chakan MIDC Phase II, Pune, marking a pivotal step in the company’s commitment to the Indian pharmaceutical market.

The inauguration event, titled “Pharmazing India Days 2024,” gathered industry leaders, partners, and customers to celebrate Uhlmann’s contributions to pharmaceutical packaging solutions and localization efforts, with presentations on advancements in blister packaging technology and the company’s vision for regional growth.

Founded in 1948 in Laupheim, Germany, Uhlmann has established itself as a leading global supplier of packaging solutions for the pharmaceutical, FMCG, medical device, and cosmetics industries. Renowned for its state-of-the-art packaging systems, Uhlmann’s global reach spans 19 countries, with manufacturing facilities in Germany, China, and Singapore, generating close to €550 million annually. Under the leadership of third-generation chairman Tobias Uhlmann, the company has continuously innovated, adapting to diverse markets while upholding the highest standards of quality and efficiency.

“We’ve come a long way from a small, family-owned company in southern Germany to one of the largest players in pharmaceutical packaging worldwide,” said Sumeet Arora, Managing Director of Uhlmann India. “This expansion in India is an exciting chapter, one that demonstrates our unwavering commitment to supporting local markets and our customers here.”

A Commitment to Localization and Customer Support

Recognizing India’s vital role as a major player in global generics manufacturing, Uhlmann established its Indian division in 2015, with operations starting in mid-2016. Initially focusing on robust service support, Uhlmann India quickly gained a foothold among leading pharmaceutical companies in India such as Sun Pharma, Dr. Reddy’s, Alembic, AstraZeneca, Abbott, Serum Institute, Cipla, and the likes.

“India’s pharmaceutical sector is dynamic and demands packaging solutions that are reliable and productivity-driven,” Arora explained. “From the start, we knew that success here would mean building strong, localized support structures for our clients.”

This commitment to localization extended further in 2018-19 when Uhlmann India began producing format parts locally, significantly reducing lead times and costs for its clients. By 2019, Uhlmann India moved to a dedicated manufacturing facility in Chakan to accommodate growing demands and maintain consistent quality.

“As soon as we started manufacturing format parts locally, we saw a marked improvement in client satisfaction,” Arora shared. “It was clear that our ‘Local for Local’ approach resonated well with our clients, meeting their needs more effectively and efficiently.”

Pharmazing India Days 2024: Celebrating Innovation and Industry Collaboration

Pharmazing India Days 2024 offered an immersive experience with presentations, live demonstrations, and networking sessions for attendees. One of the event highlights was the precision demonstration of Uhlmann’s blister packaging solution, the eBL350, which showcased the speed, accuracy, and reliability that Uhlmann products bring to pharmaceutical production lines. This commitment to innovation extends beyond technology, as Uhlmann continues to grow its digital support capabilities in India, offering first-level technical support and training through a new digital lab staffed by young engineers trained by German experts.

The event also included engaging cultural festivities such as traditional Dhol Tasha performances, a lamp-lighting ceremony, a classical dance presentation, and interactive activities, including a ramp walk and networking games, fostering a celebratory and collaborative atmosphere among all attendees.

Reflecting on the event, Arora noted, “Pharmazing India Days is more than just an industry event – it’s an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and showcase how Uhlmann is working to meet the evolving needs of the Indian pharmaceutical market. We want our clients to feel assured that we are here to support them with solutions tailored to their specific needs.”

Growth and Future Prospects

Since expanding its format part production to over 50 parts annually, Uhlmann India has also integrated local equipment for its bulk packaging lines, including components sourced from trusted Indian vendors. These additions bring cost efficiencies to clients without compromising Uhlmann’s high-quality standards.

“By incorporating local equipment for components like conveyors and labellers, we’re able to bring down costs while maintaining Uhlmann’s standard of quality,” said Arora. “It’s a win-win for our customers, offering them both affordability and excellence.”

In closing, Arora looked ahead with optimism, stating, “Our journey in India is just beginning. We’re excited to keep building strong partnerships and expanding our footprint in this market. We look forward to many more opportunities to collaborate and grow with our clients.”

Uhlmann India’s new office and expanded capabilities underscore its dedication to providing end-to-end, high-quality packaging solutions that meet global regulatory standards. With a focus on innovation, localization, and collaboration, Uhlmann India is poised to lead in the pharmaceutical packaging sector, ensuring that clients in India and beyond experience the best in blister, bottle, and carton packaging technology.

The inauguration ceremony was highlighted by the presence of prominent Uhlmann personnel, including Mr. Michael Mrachacz, CSO and Managing Director of Uhlmann Pac-Systeme; Mr. Sumeet Arora, Managing Director of Uhlmann India Pvt. Ltd.; Mr. Matthias Kaiser, Vice President (Global Sales & Marketing) of Uhlmann Pac-Systeme; Mr. Karlheinz Möschke, Regional Director and General Manager of Uhlmann China; and Mr. Volker Wissmann from Uhlmann Pac-Systeme’s Product Management team.

Joining them were esteemed industry leaders and partners such as Mr. Sundeep Bambolkar, Joint Managing Director of Indoco Remedies Ltd.; Mr. Anil Arora, President (Global Manufacturing Operations) of Granules India Limited; Mr. Satish Agrawal, President (Technical & Operation) of Ajanta Pharma Ltd.; and Mr. Richard Clemens, Managing Director of the Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association (VDMA). Financial advisors, auditors, bankers, consultants, technology partners, press and media, excellence partners, suppliers, and additional members of the Uhlmann family were also present, all contributing to the success of the event.

The Uhlmann team expressed heartfelt thanks to all its valued customers who visited and explored its innovative solutions. “We truly enjoyed the meaningful discussions and exchanges that took place, which only strengthen our resolve to continue delivering the best in pharmaceutical packaging solutions.”