Emma Verkaik , CEO of the BCMPA , discusses with members how CMOs are helping overcome the latest challenges in the global speciality chemicals sector
From decarbonisation to compliance
The Rakem Group ’ s two laboratories develop and test new products , ensuring goods meet all required regulations
Emma Verkaik , CEO of the BCMPA , discusses with members how CMOs are helping overcome the latest challenges in the global speciality chemicals sector
Weaker demand from key end-user industries , challenging weather conditions , changing usage of agrochemicals , inflation driving higher energy and raw materials costs and the continuing impact of the Russian-Ukraine war all affected the European chemical sector in 2023 . Much of this has continued into 2024 .
Yet , while undoubtedly the last few years have been a challenge , the industry is not without opportunity , and it is here that members of the Association for Contract Manufacturing , Packing , Fulfilment & Logistics ( BCMPA ) and CMOs have been collaborating with customers to overcome adverse market conditions .
Brands , manufacturers and retailers are increasingly reliant on the support of CMOs to provide access to specialist expertise , skills and knowledge , while freeing up time to enable them to focus on their core functions and management . Of course , outsourcing has long been a part of the chemical industry . However , what was once a temporary solution to cope with resource limitations has now become a vital part of business strategy .
As the industry has continued to evolve and adapt , contract manufacturers have played a crucial role in supporting this growth in everything from driving innovation to delivering sustainability within a competitive marketplace . CMOs also often create and develop efficient , stable and effective processes , by utilising all their knowledge and experiences to provide workable manufacturing solutions for new products .
Collaborative knowledge
In this scenario , close collaboration between CMOs and their clients has become increasingly key to a successful outsourcing relationship . The knowledge and technical support can be critical in the launch of a product , ensuring supply chain efficiencies and speed to market while at the same time responding to the latest changes in regulations as well as legislative , customer and consumer driven demands for greater sustainability .
Indeed , managing the increasing complex landscape of compliance is an area where members are truly adding value . For example , the Rakem Group , an agent and distributor for manufacturers who supply speciality raw materials to multiple industries , offers with access to two laboratories and six technical staff who not only develop new products but also have to ensure that existing goods meet all required regulations .
38 SPECIALITY CHEMICALS MAGAZINE ESTABLISHED 1981