Mespack India showcases high-speed pellet accuracy and advanced machine intelligence at CPHI & PMEC India 2024

At this year’s CPHI & PMEC India exhibition, Mespack India reaffirmed its leadership in high-speed pharmaceutical packaging with a compelling showcase focused on pellet accuracy, machine intelligence, and IoT-enabled service capabilities. Speaking to us at the event, Mr. Anthony D’souza, Managing Director of Duravant India, shared insights into the company’s innovations, market outlook, and strategic direction for 2025 and beyond.

Reinventing pellet accuracy for pharma

One of the key highlights at the Mespack booth was its proven technology for high-speed, precise pellet filling—an area that has long posed challenges to pharma manufacturers.

“This year at PMEC, we are focusing on the important aspect of pellet accuracy,” Mr D’souza explained. “The demand for combination packs—where powders and pellets are packed on the same machine—is growing rapidly. Pellets can be as small as 10 mg, and I am proud to say Mespack is the only company that has mastered this at high speeds.”

Mespack has successfully installed systems that run far beyond the industry’s conventional speeds. “We have proven systems not just at 50–100 packs per minute but also at around 300 packs per minute,” he noted. “Gone are the days when pellet packing was a challenge. We can now deliver accurate medicine doses—from powders of 1–2 g to pellets as small as 10 mg—with 3–5% accuracy.”

This capability, he said, has been a core attraction for both existing and new customers visiting the booth.

Evolving for India: High-speed applications lead the way

Reflecting on technology development customized for the Indian market, Mr D’souza highlighted Mespack’s continuous journey of scaling speed and efficiency.

“We have been evolving this technology for many years. Last year, we achieved 300 ppm, which we supplied to Cipla,” he shared. “Since then, our focus has been on strengthening high-speed applications. That remains our forte and the centrepiece of our showcase this year.”

Machine Intelligence: Athena & Hello Mespack

Mespack also used the platform to spotlight its advancements in machine intelligence—an area where the company sees itself significantly ahead of the curve.

“Very few people know that Mespack is far ahead in machine intelligence,” Mr D’souza emphasized. “We have a unique portal called Athena—an IPC system preferred by pharma—and another concept called Hello Mespack.”

Athena serves as an IoT-ready production and performance monitoring ecosystem. “Athena connects with cloud software, giving excellent production data. Customers can log in from anywhere in the world to check machine status,” he explained.

‘Hello Mespack’, meanwhile, strengthens 24/7 global service and remote support. “If a machine breaks down at midnight, anyone can reach ‘Hello Mespack’. Someone, somewhere in the world, responds instantly—even through online programming,” he said. “It also includes preventive maintenance schedules and operator-friendly tutorial videos. We have used AI to its fullest.”

In India, adoption of Athena is high across the pharmaceutical segment, though the 24/7 service model sees selective uptake. “Almost everyone in pharma uses Athena. ‘Hello Mespack’ comes with additional cost, so not all opt for it, but we strongly recommend it because you realize its value during a crisis,” he added.

Market Outlook: Rapid rise of nutraceuticals, US uncertainty for pharma

Commenting on sector trends, Mr D’souza pointed to sustained momentum in nutraceuticals. “Nutraceuticals are doing extremely well. People are more inclined towards them, and the segment is showing phenomenal growth,” he said.

However, he noted turbulence for pharma manufacturers due to potential US policy changes. “There are challenges because of US tariff uncertainties under Trump. Many projects are on hold as companies are unsure whether tariffs will be implemented or if they must set up factories in the US,” he said. “The good news is Indian companies are exploring Europe and other markets, which could prove beneficial.”

Customer feedback as a continuous innovation engine

Mespack’s long-standing participation at CPHI & PMEC has helped the company strengthen customer relationships and refine its solutions. “Customers always give valuable feedback. Exhibitions are not only for sales—they are networking platforms,” Mr D’souza emphasized. “Even customers without immediate requirements visit to see what’s new. Meeting them once a year at a show keeps our brand alive in their mind.”

Service excellence, he added, continues to be Mespack’s most significant differentiator. “Many pharma and non-pharma companies have awarded us for our service. Our USP is support—this is what earns us loyalty and respect.”

Duravant synergy unlocks new opportunities

With Mespack now part of the Duravant family in India, the company sees greater strategic opportunities. “Mespack has transitioned to Duravant in India, and that opens new avenues,” he said.
“A pharma company using our primary packaging solutions may want warehousing systems—we can provide that. If they expand into food, we are prepared too.”

This expanded ecosystem positions Duravant India as a comprehensive provider. “Customers get world-class technology while we gain a broader market. It’s a win-win,” he added.

Relentless improvement & future trends

Mespack continues to refine machine performance and adapt to evolving needs. “We consistently understand customer needs and make improvements. It’s a continuous process,” he stated.

Regarding emerging trends, he highlighted India’s slow move toward sustainability. “Pharma lags in sustainability because shelf life is a priority. Globally, the shift is faster, and India will eventually evolve in that direction,” he said.

While keeping future innovations confidential, Mr D’souza hinted at exciting developments. “There are new concepts and ideas coming, but I prefer to keep them under wraps until launch,” he said with a smile. “You will have to wait.”

A strong partner across industries

Summing up Mespack’s growth trajectory, Mr D’souza highlighted the company’s expanding role.

“Mespack has evolved into a strong partner across pharma, FMCG, and now with Duravant, even more segments,” he said. “Customers can see us as a one-stop solution—from primary packaging to end-of-line, from food processing to material handling and warehousing.”

The company’s participation this year strengthened its leadership in precision pellet packing, high-speed sachet solutions, advanced machine intelligence, and globally connected service support—highlighting its dedication to advancing innovation in India’s pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors.