Security of supply in genomics

Mike talks about continuous improvements in our supply chain and manufacturing standards to deliver a better, more sustainable service to our diagnostics customers.

Here are the key activities we have implemented to mitigate levels of risk in the supply chain:

• A rigorous vendor identification and qualification process for raw materials suppliers.
• Multi-sourcing and multi-manufacturing options for high risk items and key raw materials.
• Open communication and a clear change notification process with suppliers as well as customers.
• Ongoing auditing, buying strategy assessment, testing, and verification of incoming goods.
• Regular risk reviews by the sourcing team, enabling proactive steps to avoid supply issues.
• Strict quality and supply agreements, reviewed periodically.
• Increased raw material safety stock.

When security of supply is critical to the success of your business, suppliers must be rigorously qualified. Three key security of supply aspects to explore with potential suppliers are supply chain sustainability, business continuity and communications.

Consider asking the following questions to understand the levels of risk:

• What is your change control policy?
• In what ways do you minimize risk for key raw materials used to manufacture your products?
• Do you have dual suppliers for raw materials?
• Do you have a strategic reserve to be used only in case of emergencies?
• Do you offer the option of maintaining safety stock that is dedicated for our use?
• What in-house expertise does your company have to support security of supply and keep customers informed?
• Where can I access regulatory support for your products?