The pharmaceutical industry is experiencing a period of unprecedented transformation, characterised by the adoption of advanced technologies and the automation of production processes. In this scenario, LAST Technology stands out globally in the design and production of process equipment for the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sectors and for research laboratories. The company’s mission is clear: to develop cutting-edge solutions for infection prevention, actively contributing to the protection of public health. We talked about it with Massimo Castellarin, President and CEO of LAST Technology.
The development of LAST Technology is firmly linked to research and innovation. How so?
Research and development are the pillars on which LAST Technology bases its growth strategy. The company actively collaborates with the main pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries, developing customised solutions to meet the unmet and increasingly complex needs of the market. LAST Technology’s innovative approach translates into customised machinery, equipped with advanced automation and integrated technologies, capable of combining increasingly complex processes. One of the distinctive elements of the R&D strategy is the integration of commercial components and software that guarantees reliability, flexibility in the development of tailor-made solutions and remote control of equipment via centralised servers, tablets and smartphones. This approach allows optimising production processes and minimising intervention and maintenance times, increasing the overall reliability of the machines.
What are the latest innovations you offer?
LAST Technology is constantly engaged in the development of new technological solutions to improve pharmaceutical production processes. Among the main innovations introduced by the company we can mention: the use of a ketone (acetone) to remove the most resistant dirt from pharmaceutical active ingredients; ‘combo’ solutions that integrate washing and sterilisation in a single process; combined sterilisation systems using superheated water and steam for solids and liquids; low temperature sterilisation with ethylene oxide or hydrogen peroxide for heat-sensitive components; ATEX hot air drying machines for potentially explosive solid products. LAST Technology is a reliable and competent partner in the evolution towards the ‘automatic factory’, an increasingly widespread model in the pharmaceutical industry. In this sense, the company has developed innovative software based on market technologies and widely recognised communication protocols. This allows the integration of all LAST Technology process machines within the company domain, ensuring greater efficiency and connectivity.
Innovation in the proposal, but also in the optimisation of internal production processes.
LAST Technology has implemented an advanced computerised system to improve production efficiency and order management, making the management of the product life cycle more effective and optimised, from the Concept Design phase to C&Q. Thanks to the adoption of a PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software platform, the company is able to interconnect all business functions, from product conception to marketing. The integration of PLM has reduced order management times by 20-30%, improving collaboration between the various departments. The use of mobile computer workstations in the assembly and testing areas allows internal staff and visiting customers to quickly access the technical documentation of the job order. This has significantly improved business efficiency, reducing time and enhancing the control of integrated processes in quality management. The project is part of the company’s computerisation strategy, supporting growth through the integration of Business Process Management, company know-how, data and documents.
Sustainability is an important value for you. What initiatives are you undertaking?
LAST Technology’s commitment to sustainability is realised through a business model based on the creation of shared value. The company has aligned its strategy with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopting practices aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting corporate social responsibility. The main sustainability initiatives include reducing emissions by 50% by 2024 thanks to energy efficiency and the installation of a 515 kWh photovoltaic system; implementing carbon neutrality policies by 2030; promoting an inclusive and stimulating work environment, enhancing the talent and creativity of employees. Knowledge of stakeholder needs and market dynamics also guides us in developing collaborations beyond sector boundaries, integrating economic growth, social well-being and sustainability. In doing so, we not only pursue our corporate objectives, but also actively contribute to collective progress. LAST Technology, in line with its Sustainability Policy, today takes a further step in the process of building shared value by obtaining the Silver Medal rating from EcoVadis.
A global reference
LAST Technology looks to the future with a clear strategy of innovation and internationalisation. The company aims to become a global leader in the sector, combining advanced technologies and process automation, according to the philosophy of ‘thinking globally and acting locally’. In this sense, Artificial Intelligence will play a key role in the company’s evolution.