The medical device sector's 5.68% annual growth rate makes it look like an appealing opportunity for small- to medium-sized original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with innovative concepts.
Currently, emerging medical device companies face a lot of challenges. The industry's competitive landscape is dominated by large, established corporations. By contrast, emerging OEMs typically struggle with limited resources and access to manufacturing infrastructure.
Contract manufacturing offers a solution to help OEMs overcome these and other challenges so you can achieve strategic growth.
Medical device manufacturing demands a hefty capital investment. If your business builds its medical devices on-site, you have to invest in equipment, facilities, and labor. Since small to mid-size original equipment manufacturers tend to have limited revenue, you may have to rely on investors. Working with a contract manufacturer may help to convince investors your business is able to better leverage economies of scale.
OEM contract manufacturing improves cost efficiency by providing access to vertically integrated production facilities and an experienced workforce. Instead of investing in equipment, you can rely on a company that specializes in manufacturing medical devices. As a result, you lower your overhead costs and gain the ability to scale up or down as needed.
Companies that manufacture medical devices must follow strict federal guidelines for the countries they serve. Contract manufacturers specializing in medical devices have experts who can navigate challenging processes, which improves your chances of getting federal approval and ISO certifications.
Additionally, experts in medical device manufacturing can identify state-of-the-art technologies and processes that will benefit your company and product. Instead of paying high salaries for someone's expertise, you can count on the contract manufacturer's team.
Accelerating your medical device's time to market gives you several advantages. Perhaps most importantly, you can expect an accelerated time to market to help your business start generating revenue as soon as possible.
Developing detailed project plans
Using tools like computer-aided design (CAD), simulation software, and 3D printers to create and improve prototypes rapidly
Automating the testing process
Getting feedback from regulatory experts
Checking for quality throughout the development process to discover and address issues early
Partnering with an established medical device contract manufacturer also means you benefit from optimized supply chain networks. You don't need to build new relationships to source parts. Instead, the contract manufacturer can immediately use its existing network to source parts, talent, and technology.
New product introduction (NPI) is a risky venture for OEMs of all sizes. What if the device's underlying concept doesn’t work as intended? What if consumers don’t feel comfortable using the product?
As an emerging company, the risk of production downtime, equipment failures, and workforce shortages can be worrisome and costly. Let's say you raise enough capital to purchase essential manufacturing equipment. If that asset malfunctions, it could interrupt your entire manufacturing process.
Medical device contract manufacturing mitigates these risks by giving you access to operational redundancies, contingency plans, and a flexible workforce. When the unexpected happens, contract manufacturers have the assets and expertise to pivot quickly.
These traits also make OEM contract manufacturing useful for scaling up or down. As product demand fluctuates, the facility can adjust its approach to meet shifting targets. If demand increases, the manufacturer can recruit additional machinery to build more products. If demand dips, the company can dedicate fewer resources to manufacturing your products and protect you from unnecessary overhead costs.
Some medical device companies incorrectly assume that using contract manufacturers will compromise product quality. In reality, the opposite is true.
Medical device contract manufacturers know they must maintain stellar reputations to attract clients. If a contractor fails to meet deadlines or can't get products approved by regulatory bodies, medical companies won't partner with them.
For this and other reasons, you can expect exceptional quality control systems from contract manufacturers. These quality control systems ensure consistent product quality and minimize the possibility of defects and recalls.
Improving processes continually
Optimizing manufacturing efficiency
Securing checks to ensure product quality
Of course, not every contract manufacturer will fit your needs. You must find a partner that can help scale your business and commit to long-term collaborations. Ideally, you want to find a contract manufacturer your OEM can grow with for decades to come.
The more often your company uses a contract manufacturer, the more the contractor will conform to your unique needs. Eventually, it makes financial sense for a medical device contract manufacturer to invest in customized equipment developed to meet your goals. An ongoing relationship could also lead to more personalized support that helps your business thrive.
You deserve a contract manufacturer that can meet your emerging company’s unique needs. Learn more about how Sanbor Medical can help by contacting us online or calling our U.S. office at 484-664-2673.
