Logistics efficiency and technological innovation are the pillars of competitiveness in the pharmaceutical sector

The pharmaceutical industry faces increasingly challenging challenges in a context of high regulatory requirements, constant digital transformation, and the growing demand for operational efficiency. Faced with these challenges, the pursuit of service excellence and ensuring timely delivery is crucial. “on time and in full” (OTIF), and the optimization of investments in technology, emerge as determining factors for the competitiveness of the sector, which, in 2023, had a turnover of R$142 billion in Brazil.

The pursuit of on-time delivery is not only a matter of customer satisfaction, but also a competitive advantage. Alignment between demand planning, inventory management, and logistics processes becomes essential to achieving high OTIF levels.

Although there is no specific data on the OTIF deficit in the sector, companies that implement lean manufacturing practices and global production strategies have demonstrated improvements in indicators such as inventory levels, OTIF deliveries, and reduced lead times. To achieve this, some practices can be adopted:

• More accurate demand forecasting: The use of Artificial Intelligence and predictive analysis allows us to anticipate consumption patterns, avoiding unnecessary stocks and supply disruptions.

• Supply chain improvement: Investing in strategic partnerships and digital integration between suppliers, distributors, and logistics operators reduces bottlenecks and improves drug traceability.

• Automation and digitalization of processes: Tools such as logistics control towers, IoT (Internet of Things), and blockchain enable greater visibility and control over the flow of products, minimizing errors and ensuring deliveries.

Technology as a vector of transformation

Optimizing technology investments should be guided by a strategic vision, encompassing everything from organizational structure to data security and process automation. Some key areas are worth highlighting:

• Organizational structure and agile squads: The adoption of agile methodologies and the creation of multidisciplinary squads increase the capacity for innovation and rapid response to market changes, allowing greater efficiency in the execution of technology projects.

• Data platform and cloud computing: The unification of data on robust and secure platforms, combined with migration to the cloud, allows for greater scalability, accessibility, and strategic insights based on data analysis.

• Cybersecurity as a priority: The pharmaceutical industry handles sensitive and high-value information. Implementing strict security policies, including advanced encryption, continuous monitoring, and employee training, is essential to mitigate cyber risks.

• Process automation and artificial intelligence: From chatbots for customer service to process automation (RPA) robots for administrative tasks, AI has the potential to reduce operational costs and increase productivity.

The future of the pharmaceutical sector will be defined by companies' ability to balance technological innovation with operational efficiency. Those that successfully align technology investments with the pursuit of logistical excellence will be better positioned to face challenges and offer superior service. Commitment to innovation and digital transformation is not only a competitive advantage, but imperative for business survival and sustainability.