MNX sets up in Australia to offer Pacific Rim logistics

30-May-2010 - Last updated on 31-May-2010 at 09:50 GMT

Related tags Contract research organization

MNX has opened a temperature controlled distribution centre in Melbourne, Australia to serve the Pacific Rim region’s pharma industry.

Australia and the Pacific Rim region have been identified by MNX as a growth region for temperature controlled logistics, storage and transportation services. Last year World Courier also opened a site in Melbourne in response to growth in the clinical trial sector.

MNX has now also acted to meet rising demand from Asia Pacific. Its Melbourne distribution centre is capable of storing products at temperatures ranging from -8ºC to +25ºC. MNX added that the site is suitable for combating the temperature extremes experienced in the region.

Opening the site is part of MNX’s efforts to boost its pharma capabilities. Scott Carson, CEO of MNX, said: “Meeting the specialised requirements of pharmaceutical organisations and clinical trial logistics has been a logical extension of MNX’s resource set over the last three years.”

Pharma services offered by MNX include the global purchasing and local placement of packaging and coolants. Furthermore, MNX provides advice on the validation and design of packaging and training to help establish the cost control structure and initial setup for clinical trial logistics.

All stakeholders, such as trial sponsors, laboratories and contract research organisations (CRO), can be given access to MNX’s automatic tracking system. Complete temperature logging and weekly and monthly management reports are also offered.

Cargo screening

Earlier this year US-based MNX’s screening facility in Los Angeles was certified as being compliant with new US Transportation and Security Administration (TSA) regulations.

The regulations require each unit in a pallet or shipment taking off in the US to be screened. To stop airports becoming overburdened facilities can become accredited to perform the screening process.

Shipping facilities which are incompliant on August 1 will have to use airport screening. This could lead to delays and be detrimental for temperature controlled products.