From Waterford to the world: stability storage firm Q1 Scientific on expansion into Belgium

By April Lara

May 01, 2024

Q1 Scientific's new stability storage facility in Belgium

The Pharma Industry Awards not only recognise excellence within the pharmaceutical industry, they cultivate valuable networking opportunities between industry leaders. The PharmaLife Science news team followed up with Karrena Legg, marketing manager for Waterford-based specialist in stability storage, Q1 Scientific.

This Q&A explores Q1 Scientific's strategic expansion into the Belgian market. We'll discuss the motivations behind this move, the benefits it offers pharmaceutical companies and Q1 Scientific's commitment to sustainability within its new facility.

Can you elaborate on Q1 Scientific's expansion into Belgium?

Last year, Q1 Scientific opened a brand-new 20,000 sq ft stability storage facility in the easily accessible Liege region, approximately 50 miles from Brussels. This state-of-the-art facility boasts 35,000 temperature-controlled storage spaces, meticulously designed to cater to all key ICH climatic zones — suitable for long-term, intermediate and accelerated stability trials. Simultaneously, our existing facility in Waterford, Ireland, has been enhanced with an additional 10,000 sq ft. These expansions signify our unwavering commitment to excellence and our mission to serve the pharmaceutical industry with cutting-edge stability storage solutions.

How will this expansion benefit pharmaceutical companies?

The expansion into Belgium offers several benefits to pharmaceutical companies:

• Enhanced accessibility: The new facility’s location in the Liege region allows Q1 Scientific to serve pharmaceutical companies across Belgium, Germany, France, the Netherlands and beyond.
• Increased capacity: With the additional space, Q1 Scientific can accommodate more stability studies.
• More transport options: Operating in Belgium and Ireland enables Q1 Scientific to provide greater temperature-controlled transport options in mainland Europe with same-day delivery.

Does your Belgian facility incorporate sustainable practices?

Sustainability is at the heart of Q1 Scientific’s strategy. We are actively exploring renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines to power our facilities, so we can reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. Our recycling bins ensure diligent sorting and recycling of materials—paper to plastics—so they find new life instead of ending up in landfills. We encourage the use of reusable drinking cups to bid farewell to single-use plastic. Our lights operate efficiently with automated sensors, switching off when not needed. Embracing digital documents, we’ve adopted a “paperless” policy. Fewer flights and more sustainable choices are part of our reduced travel approach. And when making purchases, we consider the environmental impact. Q1 Scientific is on a mission to keep our operations green, innovative, and future-forward!

Did The Pharma Industry Awards provide valuable networking opportunities?

At the awards ceremony, we had the opportunity to network with industry leaders. Reconnecting with former colleagues was a pleasure, and engaging with new acquaintances added a fresh dynamic. Witnessing the announcement of winners and celebrating their achievements was a highlight of the event. Overall, the awards ceremony served as a platform to showcase the exceptional contributions made by various industry-leading companies.

Gain recognition for your accomplishments in the pharmaceutical sector. Register for The Pharma Industry Awards 2024. Secure your spot at the upcoming awards ceremony, where you'll have the chance to mingle with industry trailblazers and showcase your success.