Consumer division
Pharma division
On 18–19 September, Universal Pack hosted PharmaUP 2025, an event that seamlessly combined the tangible world of pharmaceutical packaging with moments of networking and sporting passion. Two intensive days that highlighted how innovation, sustainability and digitalisation are the true cornerstones of the industry’s future.
The 18th of September opened with the Open House at Universal Pack’s headquarters, where participants had the chance to see first-hand our production processes and the technologies that support them. The real stars of the day were, of course, our packaging machines. Guided by our technicians and sales team, guests were able to explore the full range of solutions: from stand-alone stick-pack and sachet machines to the most advanced complete packaging lines.
Guests experienced first-hand the engineering quality and reliability that have always set our company apart.
PharmaUP did not simply end with a seaside sunset and a glass of white wine. It went far beyond that. The second day came alive with the colours of the Marco Simoncelli Circuit in Misano Adriatico and the roar of engines during the qualifying rounds of the Ducati V4 Elite Cup, where Universal Pack was proud to be the official sponsor.
The morning was dedicated to keynote speakers, who provided a comprehensive overview of the main challenges and opportunities in the world of pharma packaging.
PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation): impacts for the pharma industry and flexible packaging
The first presentation provided an overview of the international landscape: from geopolitical tensions to increasing regulatory focus, through to market trends that are reshaping the business models of pharmaceutical companies. A crucial starting point for understanding the challenges the industry will face in the coming years.
Flexibility and future challenges: innovating packaging in the PPWR era
Palaveri analysed the impact of the new European PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) on the flexible packaging sector. He explained how the packaging of the future will need to be lighter, recyclable and, in some cases, reusable, emphasising the key role of paperisation and material innovations. His contribution highlighted how the packaging industry is already developing concrete solutions to meet the new regulations and rising consumer expectations.
Credit risk and sustainability of pharmaceutical companies: the impacts of new international scenarios and market trends in the coming years.
Angelini presented Cerved’s analysis on credit risk and the sustainability of Italian pharmaceutical companies. The sector proves to be more resilient than the national average, yet remains exposed to factors such as regulation, tariffs and geopolitical tensions. He also highlighted how sustainability (particularly in its social and governance dimensions) helps to mitigate risks, while in the environmental sphere there is still room for improvement.
Races are won in training
The Ducati rider offered an unusual yet inspiring perspective: drawing a parallel between the world of racing and that of packaging. Determination, speed of execution and meticulous processes are shared values, both for a motorcycle racing team and for a pharmaceutical company striving for absolute quality. A motivational talk that bridged sport and industry in an inspiring narrative.
Sustainability and digital transformation: challenges and opportunities
Scaturchio demonstrated how digital transformation is the key to making industrial processes both sustainable and efficient. Through the Connected Enterprise® model, companies can collect and analyse data in real time to reduce consumption, improve transparency and develop more sustainable products. For the pharmaceutical sector, this means balancing production efficiency with increasingly stringent environmental compliance requirements.
The Future of Pharma Packaging: laser UV between traceability, security and sustainability
Marchese introduced the potential of UV laser technology for marking pharmaceutical packaging. This solution, which requires neither inks nor ribbons, enables permanent marking on recyclable mono-material films, improving traceability while reducing waste. A concrete way to combine safety, compliance and sustainability.
Packaging the future: AI-Driven Productivity in pharmaceutical manufacturing
Clark concluded the session with a focus on the use of AI in the industrial field. Through the eAi Expert Advisor platform, Universal Pack UK demonstrated how it is possible to digitalise the know-how of senior engineers, reduce machine downtime and optimise maintenance activities. A practical example of how artificial intelligence can create value in pharma packaging, making a wealth of expertise accessible to all. Knowledge that might otherwise risk being lost.
A special thank you also goes to Chicco Giuliani, who moderated the entire event with professionalism, energy and outstanding communication skills. His attentive and engaging moderation added rhythm and value to both days, skilfully guiding the sessions and facilitating dialogue between speakers and the audience.
Alongside the presentations of the second day, the qualifying sessions of the Ducati V4 Elite Cup took place, with Universal Pack as the official round sponsor. Participants were able to experience the unique atmosphere of the circuit. Universal Pack unveiled a customised livery for the bike of Francesco Barberini, rider in the Ducati V4 Elite Cup, bringing moments of excitement to the audience in the Ducati pit area and paddock.
The day concluded with the distribution of the official Universal Pack jersey, designed by Aldo Drudi, the renowned Romagna-born designer behind some of MotoGP’s most iconic helmets and winner of the Compasso d’Oro Award with his project Ride on Colors, through which he redesigned and coloured all the run-off areas of the Misano Adriatico circuit, transforming them into a true work of art.
PharmaUP 2025 proved to be an event capable of bringing together different worlds, creating unique connections between technological innovation and sporting passion. For pharma packaging professionals, it was an opportunity to engage with experts, explore practical solutions and look with confidence towards a future driven by sustainability, digitalisation and global competitiveness.
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