The Basel region in Switzerland has been named Europe’s premier destination for launching a drug device company, according to a newly released study from Pharmapack Europe, the continent’s largest medical device and packaging innovation event.
The research, which surveyed over 280 global pharmaceutical executives, evaluated regions on factors such as manufacturing costs, access to skilled personnel, and operational expenses. Basel emerged as the clear leader, securing 33% of the votes, outperforming competitors such as Lombardy (18%), Catalunya (17%), the UK’s “Golden Triangle” (15%), and Germany’s Baden-Württemberg (14%).
Driving Innovation and Collaboration
Pharmapack Europe, taking place on January 22–23, 2025, at the Paris Expo, is renowned for connecting innovators in drug delivery and packaging with major pharmaceutical partners. The event’s Start-Up Hub is set to host over 20 emerging companies this year, reflecting a growing interest from German and Swiss executives seeking partnerships in device and packaging innovations.
“Pharmapack plays a vital role in fostering drug delivery innovation by bringing early-stage innovators together with investors and scale-up partners,” said Sherma Ellis-Daal, Brand Director at Pharmapack Europe. “Our research highlights the regions best positioned to advance next-generation technologies, from concept to commercialization.”
Switzerland and Germany Lead Biomanufacturing Opportunities
The report also recognized Switzerland and Germany as the top regions for establishing biomanufacturing facilities. Despite higher labor costs, Basel’s unparalleled access to skilled professionals and cutting-edge research infrastructure solidified its position as a global leader in the field.
Stefan Halbherr, CEO of InnoMedica, a Swiss biotech firm specializing in nanoparticle device technology, emphasized Basel’s unique strengths. “Switzerland’s history of pharmaceutical innovation, coupled with its precision engineering expertise, provides an exceptional foundation for advancing personalized medicine and precision device manufacturing,” he stated.
Stefan Halbherr also highlighted how his company collaborated with a Swiss precision machinery manufacturer—traditionally focused on watchmaking—to develop novel nanoparticle device filling technologies. This approach demonstrates the potential for smaller companies to drive med-tech innovation by leveraging interdisciplinary expertise.
Pharmapack Europe: A Platform for Growth
This year’s Pharmapack Europe event is expected to attract over 6,000 attendees and feature more than 370 exhibitors. Many breakthrough technologies in device design and sustainable packaging first gained recognition at previous editions of the event, underscoring its pivotal role in the pharmaceutical industry.
As one of Pharmapack’s media partners, The Pharmaceutical Post is committed to highlighting the groundbreaking innovations and key discussions shaping the future of drug delivery and packaging. We are proud to contribute to amplifying the event’s impact and fostering industry collaboration.
The full findings of the Pharmapack Report 2024 and Innovation Index will be unveiled during the event.