In the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, packaging is more than just a final step—it’s a critical component of the overall drug development and delivery process.
For contract development and manufacturing organisations (CDMOs), offering reliable, compliant and innovative packaging solutions can be a key differentiator.
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As the demand for outsourced pharmaceutical services grows, so too does the need for specialised packaging that meets stringent regulatory standards while also addressing evolving market needs.
CDMO packaging services now extend far beyond traditional blister packs and bottles. From sterile packaging for injectables to sustainable alternatives and smart labelling, the scope has widened to support the entire product lifecycle.
These services are particularly attractive to emerging pharma companies seeking flexible, cost-effective solutions without investing in dedicated infrastructure.
The role of packaging in drug development
Packaging is no longer an afterthought in drug development—it plays a strategic role from the earliest stages.
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By GlobalDataCDMOs are often involved in packaging design during clinical trials, helping to ensure that trial materials are safely and clearly labelled, compliant with regulatory requirements, and user-friendly for both patients and healthcare providers.
The type of packaging selected can influence drug stability, shelf life, ease of use, and adherence. For instance, child-resistant packaging, tamper-evident features, and temperature-controlled solutions are all part of the broader packaging toolkit offered by CDMOs.
These capabilities help pharmaceutical clients manage risk, reduce waste and maintain product integrity.
With growing emphasis on patient-centric design, CDMOs are working more closely with pharma partners to create packaging that supports better patient outcomes.
This includes packaging for self-administered therapies, prefilled syringes, and easy-to-open containers for elderly patients. These features not only support usability but also improve medication adherence.
Regulatory compliance and quality assurance
One of the major challenges in pharmaceutical packaging is maintaining full compliance with diverse and changing global regulations.
must meet strict guidelines from authorities such as the MHRA, FDA, and EMA, depending on where the product will be marketed. This requires robust systems for quality assurance, traceability, and documentation.
To ensure compliance, CDMOs invest heavily in validation procedures, cleanroom environments, and qualified personnel. Their quality systems must cover everything from raw material sourcing to final packaging release, often with real-time data monitoring and serialisation technology to combat counterfeiting.
Serialisation, in particular, has become a core requirement in many markets. CDMOs are integrating track-and-trace capabilities into packaging lines to ensure that every unit is uniquely identifiable.
This helps maintain supply chain integrity and protects patients from falsified products. Clients benefit from working with partners who can deliver compliant packaging solutions at both clinical and commercial scales.
Sustainability and innovation in CDMO packaging
Environmental concerns are reshaping pharmaceutical packaging. CDMOs are now under pressure to reduce plastic usage, minimise waste, and adopt recyclable or biodegradable materials where possible.
While regulatory constraints make rapid change difficult, innovation is beginning to take root in areas like paper-based blister packs and compostable secondary packaging.
Sustainable packaging is no longer seen as a luxury; it’s fast becoming a necessity. Many CDMOs are investing in green technologies and conducting life-cycle assessments to identify environmental hotspots.
Solutions include using mono-material plastics for better recyclability, reducing overpackaging, and implementing returnable transit packaging for clinical supplies.
Digital technology is also driving transformation. Smart packaging—featuring embedded sensors, temperature indicators, or QR codes—is becoming more common.
These features can enhance supply chain visibility, support remote patient monitoring, or provide digital instructions and safety information. CDMOs that embrace these technologies position themselves as forward-looking partners capable of supporting future-ready therapies.
Looking ahead
CDMO packaging has evolved into a strategic offering that supports pharmaceutical companies throughout the development, regulatory, and commercialisation process.
With services ranging from clinical trial labelling to commercial serialisation and sustainable innovation, CDMOs play a vital role in ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient delivery of medicines.
As demand for outsourcing continues to grow, packaging expertise will remain a key differentiator for CDMOs.
Those who can offer tailored, reliable and future-oriented solutions are well placed to support the next generation of pharmaceutical products—both for the benefit of industry and, more importantly, for the patients they serve.
