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

The pharmaceutical industry faces increasingly robust challenges in a scenario of high regulatory demand, constant digital transformation, in addition to the growing demand for operational efficiency. Faced with such challenges, the search for excellence in service level, ensuring deliveries “on time and in full” (OTIF), and the optimization of investments in technology, emerge as determining factors for the competitiveness of the sector that, in 2023, earned R$ 142 billion in Brazil.

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

Although there are no specific data on the OTIF deficit in the sector, companies that implement lean manufacturing practices (lean manufacturing) and global production strategies have demonstrated improvements in indicators such as inventory levels, OTIF deliveries and reduction of lead times. For 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 traceability of medicines.

• Automation and digitization 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 failures and ensuring deliveries.

Technology as a vector of transformation

The optimization of investments in technology should be guided by a strategic vision, covering from the organizational structure to data security and process automation. Some key fronts deserve attention:

• 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: Unifying data across robust and secure platforms, coupled with migration to the cloud, enables greater scalability, accessibility and strategic insights based on data analytics.

• Cybersecurity as a priority: The pharmaceutical industry deals with 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 to customer service to process automation robots (RPA) to administrative tasks, AI has the potential to reduce operational costs and increase productivity.

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