MPO Summit describes itself as a boutique-style event that provides an environment for in-depth discussions on issues relevant to those involved with the development and manufacture of medical devices.

Based on my recent experience in San Francisco, the Summit lived up to its description in a big way.

At the event, I had the opportunity to meet with industry experts and thought leaders from across the medical device landscape. I came away with increased understanding of med device developers’ supply chain needs in the current economy, and greater insight on how our company can best meet those needs.

It’s no surprise that U.S. tariffs are causing developers to rethink their supply chains. Several discussions centered around the desire to bring manufacturing activities closer to the United States – but not necessarily abandon offshore operations. Diversification among offshore, nearshore and U.S. suppliers is the goal for many companies.

Industry experts noted that some small and startup developers have looked to manufacturing centers in countries such as Costa Rica and Mexico to handle all of their manufacturing needs. While costs may initially look favorable, most smaller companies don’t have the volumes to reap big savings. At the same time, they also must deal with legal, transportation and customs costs and time constraints.

For those developers, the advantages of working with U.S. vendors often make the decision to stay put clear – a fact we at Boulder iQ see time and time again. When speed to market matters, immediate access to experienced professionals who can provide hands-on expertise, make quick adjustments, and find turn products offers a tremendous advantage.

Interest in effective alternatives to ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization continues to accelerate. Suppliers agreed that different manufacturers need different solutions, so the ability to offer alternative sterilization methods is key. EO is still in the mix, with important discussions on how to make it as environmentally friendly as possible. Chlorine dioxide is emerging as a go-to alternative for many devices.

Boulder Sterilization’s use of abator technology, small chambers and careful packaging piqued interest in terms of EO safety. Combined with short turnaround times, we know we can meet developers’ sterilization needs with a variety of solutions.

More conferences are on our agenda in the coming weeks. If you’ll be at any of the following, stop and see us. Or let me know ahead of time and we’ll set up a time to talk.

• MEDevice Boston, Sept. 30-Oct. 1, Boston

• RAPS Convergence, Oct. 7-9, Pittsburgh

• Sterilization Summit, Oct. 20-21, Anaheim

• MEDevice Silicon Valley, Nov. 19-20, Santa Clara