The consortium study «Excellence in Management of Contract Manufacturing Relationships» deals with current challenges and opportunities of contract manufacturing in the pharmaceutical industry. The increasing competition between supply chains instead of individual companies promotes the formation of partnerships amongst specialized companies to supply society with vital products. Leading brand companies increasingly rely on contract manufacturers to produce their products to gain access to capacity, technology, and manufacturing expertise. While such a deep level of integration can offer great potential for both sides, it also poses challenges for the companies involved. The challenge, therefore, is how the partner companies can create value together and balance their own business objectives with those of the partner under dynamic environmental conditions. The pharmaceutical industry is a pioneer in contract manufacturing, combining strong regulation with cost¿ and technology¿intensive manufacturing that requires excellent CMR management. The five consortium partners, consisting of brand¿owning companies and contract manufacturers, are continuously confronted with these considerations in their daily business. The study integrates the joint perspective of clients and contract manufacturers on practical challenges in relationship management. It offers impulses and solutions for the excellent management of contract manufacturing relationships.
