Sheffield Bio-Science and Foremost Farms USA have announced a long-term manufacturing agreement that includes a joint investment to expand production of pharmaceutical lactose at Foremost Farms’ Rothschild plant.

With both companies recognised individually as market leaders, this agreement further strengthens the combined force as the leading global supplier of direct compression lactose, and other oral solid dose excipients.

Foremost Farms, headquartered in Baraboo, Wisconsin, and Sheffield Bio-Science, headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin and part of Kerry Group, initially began a partnership in 2007 in which Sheffield managed the sales, marketing and technical support of Foremost Farms’ pharmaceutical-grade lactose products. The lactose is sold internationally under the Foremost and Fast Flo trademarks.

Enhancing the supply chain

“This strategic alliance positions us well for providing customers with unsurpassed product value, enhanced opportunities for supply chain consolidation, and new technology innovation,” says Edmond Scanlon, president of Sheffield Bio-Science.

“We believe this agreement is a natural extension for both Foremost Farms and Sheffield,” said Doug Wilke, vice president-marketing and technology, Foremost Farms USA. “By working together, we can focus on the manufacturing and marketing strengths of each partner while providing a sustainable supply that positions us as the leading lactose provider in the world.”

Investment in anhydrous drying capacity

The agreement, which extends through 2019, has Sheffield continuing its responsibility for the sales, marketing and technical support of the Foremost lactose products for pharmaceutical applications. Both companies will make an investment to add anhydrous drying capacity at Foremost Farms’ Rothschild plant. Building modifications and equipment installation will begin immediately.

Together, the companies provide customers with greater access to the industry’s most extensive technologies, including anhydrous, spray dried, monohydrate and inhalation grades of lactose. In addition, the alliance will provide customers with greater supply continuity and sustainability as the two companies leverage the Foremost Farms manufacturing facility as an alternative production site for the Sheffield anhydrous lactose products.

A global technical service platform encompasses established and new technologies for developing oral solid dosages as well as fermentation and biotechnology expertise. The combined business is uniquely positioned to collaborate directly with pharmaceutical formulators in the development of new drugs and delivery systems.