AstraZeneca plans to improve UK distribution arrangements

AstraZeneca has announced plans to improve its distribution of medicines in the UK, with changes to its supply chain arrangements.

A previous statement from the company revealed that a strategic review of operations showed opportunities to improve UK distribution, while claims that it will supply through a single distributor have been denied, Supply Management (SM) indicates.

AstraZeneca’s US rival Pfizer has announced plans to distribute through a sole supplier and reports from the Dispensing Doctors Association said AstraZeneca would join its rival in supplying pharmacies and dispensing doctors though one channel.

The company claims that as a result of its distribution review it has “approached a number of organisations who are capable of working with [it] for the supply of [its] medicines in the UK”. Although a spokesperson for AstraZeneca told SM it would not disclose details of the new supply chain model.

A deal between Pfizer and British-based Alliance Boots has sparked protests from independent pharmacies, wholesalers and MPs, who believe leaving distribution responsibility with one firm poses a risk.

Last month, Labour MP David Taylor tabled a motion expressing concern the proposals, which could begin this spring. It highlights “unacceptable risk” and reveals that Pfizer was not able to meet demands for its high blood pressure drug in 2005.