One of Arxada’ s multipurpose plants in Visp, Switzerland
CDMOs as catalysts of transformation
Tanja Schaffer of Arxada calls for CDMOs to evolve into ecosystems of innovation
The speciality chemicals industry stands at a pivotal moment. Global megatrends— climate change, resource scarcity, digitalisation and shifting consumer expectations— are reshaping the way we innovate, produce and deliver value.
At the same time, supply chain disruptions and regulatory pressures demand resilience and agility like never before. In this dynamic environment, CDMOs have emerged as critical enablers of transformation, bridging the gap between ambition and execution.
From outsourcing to strategic partnership
The CDMO model has its roots in the pharmaceutical sector, where outsourcing manufacturing was initially a cost-driven decision. Over time, these organisations evolved beyond simple production to offer development, scale-up and even innovation support.
Today, in speciality chemicals, this evolution is accelerating. The industry’ s diversity, spanning pharma, agriculture, nutrition, energy storage and personal care, requires tailored solutions and deep technical expertise. CDMOs are no longer peripheral suppliers; they are strategic partners, co-creating solutions that move ideas from the lab bench to global markets.
This shift reflects a broader trend. Companies are seeking collaborative ecosystems rather than transactional relationships. By leveraging CDMOs’ specialised capabilities, they can focus on core competencies while accessing cutting-edge technologies, regulatory know-how and sustainable practices.
The modern CDMO: A hub of possibility
Today’ s CDMO is far more than a manufacturing site; it is a hub of possibility. Equipped with advanced R & D infrastructure, digital tools and global networks, CDMOs enable faster, smarter innovation. Their value proposition spans:
• Flexibility in volumes and technologies, accommodating everything from pilot batches to full-scale production
• Speed in development and time-to-market, which is critical in competitive and fast-moving sectors
• Regulatory expertise, navigating complex compliance landscapes across geographies
• Sustainability leadership, embedding green chemistry and circular processes into every step
36 SPECIALITY CHEMICALS MAGAZINE ESTABLISHED 1981