The Cool Chain Association (CCA) brings together leaders and professionals from across the cool chain industry to network, share insights and trial new ideas at its two annual events – one on pharma and one on perishables.
This week (September 23-24), at the CCA’s Pharma and Biosciences Conference, delegates learnt that cool chain partners are changing their mindsets to join shippers and start-ups in shaping the supply chain of the future – smart data applications, unmanned aircraft, and supplier management solutions were on the agenda.
The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA)’s Celine Hourcade said that despite not yet being cost-effective or scalable, the Drone sector is a new emerging industry and added that it was important for the transport sector to share its expertise to help companies developing unmanned solutions.
“The pharma and the air cargo industries have the knowledge and this must be transferred and shared with the new entrants, if that happens it will be a win-win situation,” she said.
Drone start-ups Avy and Dronomics have set their sights on developing unmanned aircraft that will improve the final mile as well as offering cost-effective, more environmentally friendly solutions.
Ivet Arabadjieva, director of business development at drone start-up Dronomics, said she felt the pharma and drone industries can learn from each other.
“Tell us what you need, and we can come back with ideas and with costs,” she said.
Dr Radhika Batra, founder and president of Every Infant Matters, explained that the industry was helping by finding and promoting innovative solutions to bridge the gaps in the supply chain, with drones being just one example.
“There are 1.5 million children dying every year from vaccine-preventable illnesses and many more living with blindness and other disabilities that don’t need to be,” she said.
“Major stakeholders must join together in this war against poverty and disease, if we come together, network, and share, we can surely make a difference.”
