Optima Pharma, part of the Optima Group, opened a new service hub in Knightdale, a suburb of Raleigh, NC. More than 175 guests attended the inauguration ceremony and open house.

A turnkey partner for customer-specific filling and process equipment for the pharmaceutical and biotech industry, Optima can now offer customers faster and better local service and support.

“The opening of a local branch in Knightdale is an important step for Optima Pharma. This ensures enhanced support for our customers in this region,” said Ulrich Unterriker, managing director at Optima Machinery Corp. in Green Bay, WI.

After the official welcome, Unterriker presented Optima’s strategies to increase the service capabilities in the US. The presence of Optima Pharma in the US steadily increased over the last several years, with the service personnel doubling since 2019. In his keynote address, Gerhard Breu, chairman of the Optima Pharma Div., referred to the importance of integrated solutions offered by Optima Pharma as a turnkey partner, and emphasized the significance of local experts and support.

Six industry professionals from Eli Lilly, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, Thermo Fisher, Merck, CRB, and the North Carolina Department of Commerce presented on industry relevant and economic topics. Guests had the opportunity to network throughout the afternoon and visit expert zones to learn more about Optima's service capabilities. A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official opening of the service hub. The event ended with guests attending an Oktoberfest-themed celebration.