Unicep wins contract with pharmaceutical giant

SANDPOINT — Unicep Packaging, Inc. has been awarded a three-year contract with GlaxoSmithKline, the world’s second largest pharmaceutical company.

A contract packager of gels, liquids and creams, UPI will provide GSK with turnkey packaging for a line of personal care products, according to Karla Horton, UPI marketing manager.

“We’ll provide services from actually mixing their products on site to then placing it in the packaging, labeling, boxing the product and then shipping it out to them,” Horton said.

In March, UPI began shipping to GSK’s distribution center in Memphis, Tenn., after the Sandpoint company went through an extensive process that included audits, purchasing new equipment and enhancing its facility, she added.

“When GSK was evaluating suppliers, I believe it was evident that we had the technology and infrastructure to partner with them on this strategic move,” said Greg Taylor, UPI director of program management.

As part of the contract, UPI developed a cross functional team, traveled to multiple GSK locations and executed the transfer process to begin manufacturing as quickly as possible.

“We are very pleased to announce this partnership with one of the world’s leading research-based pharmaceutical and health care companies,” said Clint Marshall, vice president of business development. 

With the contract, Horton said GSK is now one of UPI’s largest single clients.

UPI officials hope the contract will be the start of a long-term relationship with the pharmaceutical giant, Horton said.