Dear Pharma Pals,

Over the last decade, automation and robotics have redefined how packaging floors operate. What was once a labour-intensive process has evolved into a highly orchestrated, data-driven system that combines precision engineering, artificial intelligence, and real-time monitoring. This transformation has not only increased output but has also brought the industry closer to its ultimate goal –zero human error.

Today, the integration of collaborative robots (cobots), vision systems, digital twins, and AI-based inspection has redefined packaging excellence. The modern packaging floor resembles a digital ecosystem – responsive, self-diagnosing, and interconnected. Read the article by Dr. Pritam R Siraskar, an accomplished pharmaceutical professional, academic mentor, and industry leader.

Dr. Robin Meier and Daniel Emanuele write on a revolutionary truly continuous wet granulation and drying system. It is intrinsic to continuous processes that, to a certain extent, they require only longer production times instead of a scale-up, but since all developments start in the laboratory, there is a need for space-saving equipment in laboratory size, which is also suitable for the smallest throughputs.

150 years of Romaco Kilian, the story of an East-West German company, tells the rise, fall and resurgence of a Berlin company steeped in tradition, which is now based in Cologne. Also read exclusive coverage of the inaugural edition of API Connect, which stood out for its emphasis on real operational experience.

Harjit Singh Dhaul
Publisher & Editor