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Pharmaceutical goods need sensitive handling J


Batten – committing to “go the extra mile in 2011”


ohn Batten, executive vice president global cargo at Zurich- headquartered ground handler Swissport International, believes


there is still a lot of work to be done on improving the everyday processes associated with moving perishables through the air freight supply chain. “The optimal situation would be for all


concerned to sit down and agree on local industry standards and processes, in order to offer a seamless quality to the industry.


“There is still a missing link and we all need to get smarter. But


Swissport is committed to go the extra mile in 2011, with improved facilities and equipment, and we want to engage.” Technology is increasingly important, Batten noted, especially in regards to temperature logging and packing materials.


“The pharma industry spends millions on the development of


even better material ... and there is a need to get even more sophisticated. It is vital to be a leader in this segment. This is where I would like the handler to be more involved, so we can be prepared and adopt the new technology,” he said. Batten continued: “We need to adapt in the key export stations,


but one major concern for the pharmaceutical industry is compliance on arrival. We need to develop a product-specific quality programme which covers services on departure and arrival,” he commented. “With regard to export stations with large volumes, this can go


as far as developing a separate acceptance and handling channel – but we need to be mindful of the whole journey. “Professional pharma handling requires special facilities,


training, the appropriate processes, a stringent quality management system and the right dialogue between all parties. It also needs investment by the handlers and a better understanding of what is really necessary to improve the journey,” he concluded.


AIR LOGISTICSCHINA 5


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