Updated manufacturing system.

The latest version of Körber's PAS-X Manufacturing Execution System has been released. PAS-X MES 3.4.2 helps pharma and life science manufacturers maximise operational performance while significantly lowering infrastructure and maintenance efforts.

The new version expands shopfloor capabilities and is, for example, well suited for Cell & Gene Therapy (CGT) manufacturing, supporting Chain of Identity and Chain of Custody, material traceability and mobile photo documentation. CGT companies benefit from improved operator guidance, end-to-end traceability and enhanced process security for highly individualised therapies.

Maximised uptime.
PAS-X SmartInstall automates deployments, updates, validation checks, and reporting. The new installation process, based on Kubernetes Operators, reduces installation effort to just a few hours while increasing system availability.

Increased infrastructure efficiency.
Infrastructure requirements have been further reduced by migrating core services to GraalVM, a high-performance runtime environment that optimises Java applications. As a result, memory consumption is reduced by up to 50 percent while startup times are significantly improved, further modernising the PAS-X MES system architecture.

A strategic step for more efficient pharma manufacturing.
“The new PAS-X MES 3.4.2 version is another important step in our mission to help pharma and life science manufacturers achieve greater efficiency with lower operational effort,” says Pierrick Lebigre, Vice President Product, Software, Körber Business Area Pharma. “This release combines enhanced shopfloor capabilities with significant improvements in deployment automation, infrastructure efficiency and system observability. Customers benefit from lower total cost of ownership, faster operations and greater agility in highly regulated manufacturing environments.”

Strong data foundation for analytics and AI.
The new PAS-X Data Access 3.2 version, released alongside PAS-X MES 3.4.2, further strengthens the data foundation of PAS-X MES by doubling the scope of trusted, reusable manufacturing data available to data & analytics teams. The expanded data model provides richer context across processes, materials, products, and sites, enabling deeper operational insight while reducing the long-term effort required to integrate, maintain, and scale MES data across enterprise analytics and AI initiatives.

Improved observability and WMS integration.
The latest PAS-X MES release also introduces new observability tools, providing unified metrics, logs and traces across application, platform and infrastructure layers to accelerate issue detection and resolution. In addition, new warehouse and material management capabilities improve material request and supply workflows, strengthen WMS integration (Warehouse Management System) and increase accessibility of operational data.

PAS-X MES 3.4.2 is available for all deployment models, including on-premise, private cloud and fully managed SaaS environments.

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@WerumKarrierec #Koerber  #PAuto #MES #Pharma 

Automation software platform advancements.

Ensuring long-term compatibility, performance, and security.

GENESIS version 11.05, the latest evolution of Mitsubishi Electric Iconics Digital Solutions' flagship automation software platform, has just been released. The release continues the company’s mission to deliver a modern, highly scalable, and cybersecure solution for a wide range of industrial and enterprise applications. Building on a legacy of innovation, this advance introduces a powerful combination of next-generation technologies, enabling organisations to meet today’s operational demands while preparing for the future of automation.

It represents a major step forward with its .NET 10 code foundation, ensuring long-term compatibility, performance, and security. The release supports a broad spectrum of applications including HMI/SCADA, Building Automation Systems (BAS), Facility Management Systems (FMS), Energy Management Systems (EMS), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), and Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM).

At the core of this release is Anyglass technology, which enables unlimited user scalability. Through containerisation, load balancing, and Kubernetes orchestration, GENESIS version 11.05 empowers organisations to deploy highly elastic systems that adapt seamlessly to growing operational demands.

Key capabilities include:

• New SQL Query Engine in Data Historian:Delivers SQL-style access to GENESIS historical data, with v10-compatible queries, built-in procedures for raw and aggregated reads, and easy point discovery for faster reporting and UI workflows.
• Enhanced Machine-to-Machine Authentication:Enables secure, direct system-to-system integration with GENESIS—ideal for building advanced, scalable, and high-security architectures.
• New Native Support for Mitsubishi Electric MX Controllers:Streamlines integration, delivering faster setup, reliable connectivity, and seamless data exchange out of the box.
• Modern .NET 10 Platform:Delivers improved performance, security, and long-term technology readiness.
• Unlimited Scalability withWebHMI:Enablesextensiveuser scalability via containerisation, load balancing, and Kubernetes orchestration.
• AI-Ready PowerShell API:OffersenhancedAPI and documentation support,automated workflows,and AI-driven integration.
• Expanded Connectivity withDeviceXPlorer7.6.0:Delivers broad-based device connectivity—adding specific drivers for CODESYS and Shibaura Injection Molding and Die Casting Machines.
• Extensibility Toolkit and API Documentation:Provides powerful tools for custom development and seamless integration within the GENESIS architecture.

Additional updates in GENESIS version 11.05 include support for Azure maps, client credential flow for authentication, new and improved tracing and diagnostics tools, and integration to Office365 for notifications.

These enhancements reflect our ongoing investment in ensuring continuous innovation, rapid development cycles, and robust quality assurance processes. This commitment ensures that GENESIS remains a competitive and future-ready platform.

Designed for scale, flexibility, and performance.
The GENESIS architecture is built on a modular, distributed design, powered by the high-performance FrameWorX communications layer. This enables the platform to scale far beyond traditional systems, supporting both small, centralised deployments and large, distributed architectures with redundancy requirements.

Its composable architecture allows modules to be deployed flexibly, whether consolidated into a single environment or distributed across multiple systems—providing unmatched adaptability for any application size or complexity.

For end users, GENESIS offers a future-proof automation platform designed to minimise total cost of ownership. Its evergreen approach ensures continuous alignment with emerging technologies while maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture through automated testing and rapid updates. The platform is easy to adopt, operate, and maintain over the long term.

For system integrators, GENESIS provides an ideal foundation for delivering projects of any scale or complexity. Its open architecture, extensibility tools, and AI-ready APIs enable faster development, higher productivity, and the ability to meet unique customer requirements with precision.

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@MEIDS_ @MEIrishbranch @ME_Europe @MitsubishiElec #PAuto #BAS

First step toward digitalisation for life science.

Körber have announced its additional MES (Manufacturing Execution System) solution PAS-X Neo which is specifically designed to enable small and mid sized pharmaceutical companies and sites to digitalise shop floor operations quickly, effectively, and with a clear path for future growth. With this additional MES product, the first version of which will be available in November 2026, the company extends its existing PAS-X portfolio with for example PAS-X MES, PAS-X Savvy or AI solutions and enables an easy entry into PAS-X and the Körber Ecosystem to life science manufacturers that want to start small and scale as their business grows.

Many pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical manufacturers still rely on paper based or fragmented shop floor processes. This leads to manual errors, inefficiencies, and increased compliance risk. At the same time, limited internal IT, validation, and MES capacities make digitalisation projects difficult to start and hard to sustain.

The PAS-X Neo is a purpose built MES for small and mid sized companies and sites designed to address these challenges. It builds on a lean, standardised, cloud native architecture with essential GMP functionality, enabling cost-efficient operations, low IT complexity, and regulatory compliance. The solution is designed for fast implementation and provides a right sized entry point into PAS-X and the Körber Ecosystem.

“We will deliver a world-leading MES platform that makes enterprise-grade innovation accessible to small and mid-sized pharmaceutical manufacturers and sites, empowering them to operate digital, connected and regulatory-compliant from day one. By bringing together cloud-native architecture, AI-powered tooling, and deep domain expertise across MES and line-level operations, we are shaping the next era of pharmaceutical manufacturing and expanding our leadership in the fast-growing Tier-2 and Tier-3 market,” says Oliver Weber, EVP Software, Körber Business Area Pharma.

“Digitalization in pharma must not be an all or nothing decision,” adds Pierrick Lebigre, Vice President Product, Software, Körber Business Area Pharma. “With our new PAS-X Neo, we bring the proven quality, compliance, and reliability of our flagship product PAS X MES into a right sized, cloud native solution. This gives manufacturers a simple, secure and future-proof first step into MES based operations.”

Customers benefit from fast time to value. The goal is to implement the software within less than two months using standardised templates, minimal configuration effort, and AI support. Pharma grade compliance is built in from day one, including ALCOA+, FDA 21 CFR Part 11, EU Annex 11, audit trails, and electronic signatures. The SaaS delivery model reduces effort and total cost of ownership. No local infrastructure is required, and pre-validated building blocks reduce the validation effort. The solution complements Körber’s flagship PAS-X MES and in future will provide benefits in terms of interoperability between MES systems across different sites, as well as a clearly defined upgrade path.

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@WerumKarrierec #Koerber  #PAuto #MES #Pharma  

MES mantains quality in sports nutrition facilities.

Smart manufacturing platform to unify manufacturing, enhance real-time visibility, and empower THG for continuous improvement across several sites.

THG Nutrition, home to Myprotein — the world’s largest online sports nutrition brand — has selected the Rockwell Automation's  Plex Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to drive operational excellence, support rapid growth, and unify its manufacturing processes across multiple sites.

THG Nutrition delivers high-quality sports nutrition products to more than 70 countries, operating multiple manufacturing facilities worldwide. As part of THG PLC, a global e-commerce and technology leader, THG Nutrition is committed to innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. THG’s facility in Warrington, United Kingdom, among its largest manufacturing sites, will be the first to implement Plex MES, with plans to expand across additional locations.

“Rockwell Automation’s deep understanding of the food and beverage sector was important in our selection of Plex,” said Adam Pyne, production director for THG manufacturing. “The platform’s ability to address auditing requirements, streamline processes, and deliver measurable financial and operational value set it apart from competitors.

“Plex gives us the platform to act fast and smart, and with real-time dashboards, guided work instructions, and mobile-enabled inventory tracking, our teams can make informed decisions and optimize scheduling. Plex breaks down operational siloes and empowers our people to collaborate across departments, supporting our commitment to continuous improvement and world-class quality.”

THG Nutrition’s decision to adopt Plex was driven by the need for real-time operational visibility, streamlined quality management, and efficient inventory and production scheduling. Previously, the company relied on legacy systems and manual processes, which created siloes between departments. By choosing Plex, THG Nutrition gains a unified, cloud-based solution that provides a digital infrastructure that continually updates to the latest software version. This dynamism increases cost predictability while ensuring compliance and strengthening operational resiliency.

THG Nutrition’s growth-by-acquisition business model requires rapid deployment of standardized processes across new sites. Plex’s configurable, no-code platform enables THG’s digital team to quickly replicate solutions, ensuring consistency and efficiency as the company expands. The cloud-based nature of Plex also provides flexibility for divestitures, allowing THG to easily adapt its IT footprint as the business evolves.

“THG Nutrition is growing fast, and Plex is the right solution for that journey,” said Tom Forster, regional vice president, enterprise software sales, EMEA, Rockwell Automation. “THG selected Plex for its ability to unify manufacturing operations, deliver real-time insights, and support scalable growth. Our platform enables THG to standardize processes, reduce total cost of ownership, and maintain agility in a dynamic market.”

Key Features and Functionalities.

• Real-Time Dashboards: Plex provides out-of-the-box dashboards displaying key performance indicators, enabling THG Nutrition to identify bottlenecks and drive continuous improvement.
• Optimized Scheduling: The platform enforces compliance and prevents out-of-sequence production, reducing downtime and allergen-related cleaning requirements.
• Unified Data Platform: By consolidating legacy systems into Plex, THG Nutrition lowers IT costs and simplifies infrastructure, supporting long-term operational efficiency.
• Self-Sufficiency: Plex’s train-the-trainer approach empowers THG’s team to manage and deploy the platform independently, giving them control over their digital roadmap.

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@ROKAutomation @ROKAutoEMEA @thgplc #PAuto #Food #MES

Fail-safe weighing processes enhanced.

The natural medicine manufacturer Salus has successfully migrated to Körber’s new NextGen PAS-X MES at its headquarters in Bruckmühl (D) and at its subsidiary Schoenenberger in Magstadt (D). Körber's PAS-X MES ensures precise, recipe-driven digital weighing and dispensing for the production of medicinal teas, tonics, cosmetics, and spices.

Salus' HQ

Salus had been using a customised version of PAS-X MES since 2018. As the underlying third-party infrastructure and technology components were approaching obsolescence, requiring high maintenance costs and losing access to security updates, the complete PAS-X installation needed to be replaced. The NTS Apollo ERP system had to be integrated, as did a level-2 interface to the automation level.

“To minimise risks and ensure the continuity of our production, we decided to migrate to the new NextGen PAS-X MES,” says Florian Müller, Project Manager at Salus. “Together with Körber, we formed a cross-functional team of internal specialists, Körber’s migration and ERP experts, and Kubernetes service provider SVA to guarantee a smooth implementation.”

Körber supports PAS-X migration projects with a structured migration approach, expert services and smart automation tools that reduce complexity, accelerate timelines and ensure compliance throughout the project.

By adopting a fully standardised PAS-X MES system, Salus has significantly reduced maintenance costs while increasing system flexibility. The IT infrastructure is now state-of-the-art, offering maximum cyber security. The ERP system is fully integrated with the MES through a dedicated interface.

In the next phase, additional level-2 interfaces will be implemented to connect further systems, ensuring seamless data exchange with PAS-X MES and supporting continued digitalisation of Salus’ production processes.

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@WerumKarrierec #Koerber #Salus #PAuto #MES  

MES portfolio innovations announced.

A series of strategic innovations to Rockwell Automation's Manufacturing Execution System (MES) portfolio, focused on flexibility, scalability and resiliency has been announced. Their elastic MES portfolio is a cloud-native, interoperable MES platform designed to unify operations across operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT). This elastic, modular approach accelerates time to value, simplifies operations and allows manufacturers to scale capabilities as needed – empowering progress toward autonomous operations

Traditional MES solutions often operate in silos, limiting visibility across OT and IT. According to Rockwell’s 2025 State of Smart Manufacturing Report, 21% of manufacturing leaders cite integration challenges as a top internal obstacle. Rockwell’s elastic MES eliminates these barriers with a single, unified platform that connects the manufacturing lifecycle - from materials and inventory to production and tooling. Embedded analytics, AI-driven insights and connected worker technology keep production agile, visible and optimised.

“Legacy MES systems, while foundational, have become barriers to agility in an era defined by rapid change,” said Lorenzo Veronesi, associate research director, IDC, a manufacturing research service. “This future lies in modern, flexible and scalable MES platforms that enable manufacturers to reconfigure processes on demand, integrate seamlessly across the digital thread, and accelerate innovation. This evolution marks a critical step in moving the industry toward a truly adaptive, future-ready operations.”

“Our elastic MES strategy and investments drive a fundamental shift in how manufacturers connect and optimise their operations,” said Anthony Murphy, vice president of product management, Rockwell Automation. “DIY and disparate systems increase cost, risk and complexity. Rockwell’s elastic MES unifies critical applications across OT and IT on a cloud-native, resilient architecture that grows with our customers.”

Rockwell’s Elastic MES Solutions.

Rockwell’s MES solutions serve as the digital backbone of modern manufacturing, connecting software, hardware and services into a unified OT/IT environment. Designed for interoperability and scalability, the platform combines the power of the cloud with the resilience of the edge.

Their MES portfolio includes the following elastic qualities:

• Purpose-built for manufacturing: Tailored for discrete, hybrid, and regulated industries, ensuring compliance, traceability, and security
• Comprehensive capabilities: A multi-tenant Software as a Service (SaaS) environment with embedded AI technology to guide manufacturers along their autonomous operations journey
• Unified OT/IT integration: Seamless connectivity delivers holistic visibility and stronger business resiliency
• Extensible by design: A secure, resilient platform designed to integrate with existing systems and leverage emerging technologies like AI
• Resilient edge-to-cloud deployment: Flexible options from cloud-only to hybrid configurations to fit each site’s operational needs

"Plex gives us flexibility to grow our digital infrastructure at our own pace,” says David Rudofsky, chief financial officer, Wonton Food Inc. “We selected what worked for us initially and there are various capabilities we can consider for future expansion, like material tracking and production efficiency. For industries like food and beverage, Rockwell’s purpose-built MES offerings simplify compliance for SQF and customer audits and reduce implementation time by eliminating the need for heavy customisation. Our operations benefit from a secure and connected foundation that encourages continuous improvement."

Operational Impact and Business Outcomes.
Manufacturers worldwide are already realising the benefits of Rockwell’s MES solutions:

• A stationery, lighter, and shaver manufacturer leveraged Plex MES to unlock scalable capabilities and gain real-time production visibility.
• A baking mix manufacturer automated WIP management, and improved performance across finance and operations with Plex MES.
• A pharmaceutical developer implemented FactoryTalk® PharmaSuite® to create a digital manufacturing core and enhance efficiency.

In short Rockwell’s MES portfolio delivers intelligent guidance, predictive insights and operational agility, helping manufacturers streamline production and evolve toward autonomous operations.

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@ROKAutomation @ROKAutoEMEA @wontonfood #PAuto  #MES #OT_IT

Vice President of Life Sciences.

Critical Manufacturing, the leading provider of next-generation Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and a subsidiary of ASMPT, has announced a major appointment. Paul Straeten, a digital transformational visionary, is now appointed as Vice President of Life Sciences.

Paul joined the company on October 24, bringing over 20 years of experience in manufacturing operations, supply chain, and Industry 4.0 technologies across the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device sectors.

Prior to joining Critical Manufacturing, Paul led large-scale MES and SAP programs at Medtronic - one of the world’s most complex manufacturing ecosystems. By enhancing machine connectivity, real-time data integration, and automated vision inspection, he helped elevate operational excellence and accelerate AI implementation across global supply chain networks.

“I’m excited to join Critical Manufacturing and support life sciences industry leaders in advancing operational excellence. By developing next-generation MES solutions and exploring the potential of AI-driven process flows, we can unlock a new level of lean optimization. Leveraging advanced technologies and proven methodologies, we aim to deliver superior quality assurance and scalability in highly regulated environments,” said Paul Straeten.

With Paul’s addition to the team, Critical Manufacturing reinforces its commitment to supporting the life sciences and medical device industries across global manufacturing and supply chain operations with advanced digital solutions.

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@mepaxIntPR #CriticalManf #ASMPT #Pauto

Seamless scale integration.

Bizerba, the global leader in industrial scales and precision scales, has been officially recognised as a “Ready” level partner in Körber’s PAS-X Weigh & Dispense technology partner program. This certification underscores both companies’ commitment to delivering seamless integration for use cases in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Fred Köhler

“Our high-performance weighing technology is a trusted part of pharmaceutical production. Through our partnership with Körber, we enable a seamless connection between our industrial scales and PAS-X MES for weighing and dispensing processes. This gives our customers direct, digital control over critical weighing steps – with fewer manual interventions and maximum process reliability. The result is real added value in everyday production: precise, efficient, and fully compliant,” said Fred Köhler, Managing Director Business Unit Industry at Bizerba.

The partnership enables faster and more reliable integration of Bizerba’s weighing technology with Körber’s PAS-X MES – the industry-leading Manufacturing Execution System. By establishing standardised interfaces between the two systems, enabling plug-and-play connectivity, the collaboration helps pharmaceutical manufacturers streamline their critical weighing and dispensing processes.

Precise weighing of input materials according to formula specifications is central to pharmaceutical production. PAS-X MES guides operators through this process while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and recipe requirements. Seamless scale integration is essential – a capability strengthened this partnership with a leading provider of industrial and precision scales. Bizerba’s technology ensures accurate weight measurements, supporting both quality control and operational efficiency.

“This partnership is valuable for our joint customers in the pharma industry as it simplifies the integration of PAS-X MES with Bizerba’s weighing portfolio through a standardised interface,” said Lars Hornung, Senior Principal Alliances & Technology Partners Software at Körber Business Area Pharma. “The collaboration reflects Körber’s broader strategy of building an ecosystem of technology partners around PAS-X MES to enable customers to implement best-in-class system architectures using standard interfaces to further accelerate their digital transformation journey.”

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@WerumKarrierec @BizerbaUSA #Koerber #PAuto #MES #Pharma

Large scale MES project.

Accelerating digital transformation with fast-tracked MES implementation.

GC Biopharma, a leading South Korean biopharmaceutical company, has partnered with Körber to implement a large-scale Manufacturing Execution System (MES) project across multiple sites. Set to go live within a year, the project marks one of Korea’s fastest MES rollouts, underscoring GC Biopharma’s focus on operational excellence and long-term growth.

Management teams from Körber Korea and GC Biopharma symbolically cutting a cake at the kick-off ceremony.

At the core of the initiative is the implementation of Körber’s PAS-X MES solution at three major manufacturing sites, including facilities producing Hunterase (a treatment for Hunter syndrome) and a range of plasma-derived therapies. The MES will serve as the digital backbone of operations, enabling real-time process visibility, batch traceability, seamless system integration, and enhanced global compliance.

“This MES project is not just about digitalization – it’s a bold step toward redefining manufacturing standards in Korea’s biopharmaceutical sector,” said Woong Shin, VP / Head of Quality Management at GC Biopharma. “Partnering with Körber reflects our shared commitment to innovation and responsibility in delivering high-quality therapies worldwide.”

The project follows a phased rollout plan, with a technical go-live scheduled in 10 months and commercial operations to begin in 14 months – a record pace for MES implementation in Korea’s complex biopharmaceutical sector. GC Biopharma expects to achieve a 25% reduction in batch cycle time, a 30% improvement in data review efficiency, and full compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU GMP Annex 11. With a focus on execution and accountability, the project addresses several critical objectives:

• System integration at scale: PAS-X MES will interface with a broad landscape of systems including SAP ERP, WMS, QMS, LMS, DMS, PBS, MBS, LIMS, and L2 platforms.
• Complex interconnectivity: Custom integrations will support unique business processes across systems to maximize enterprise value.
• Prime contractor leadership: As the main contractor, Körber is responsible for overall project execution, subcontractor coordination, and quality assurance.
• Standardization and quality control: A key goal is the alignment of processes and quality standards across diverse partner contributions.
• Localized expertise: All partners bring dedicated in-country teams to ensure high-quality delivery and responsive support.

“Delivering a project of this scale within such a compressed timeline demonstrates the strength of our partnership and shared ambition,” said Andrew Lee, Managing Director Korea, Körber Business Area Pharma. “We’re not just implementing a system – we’re building a foundation for digital excellence.”

“This collaboration showcases what can be achieved when expertise, trust, and ambition come together. With our global innovation capabilities and strong local execution, we are setting a new standard for fast, high-quality MES deployments in Asia’s pharmaceutical industry. I am proud of our teams for driving this digital transformation journey together with GC Biopharma,” said Oliver Weber, CEO Software, Körber Business Area Pharma.

The deployment is backed by a robust partner network:

• euBiz Solution leads level 2 system integration using COPA-DATA’s Zenon, OT network design (via Wenet), and validation.
• Shinsegae supplies core infrastructure solutions, including Nutanix-based MES servers.
• INiinno drives MES validation efforts to ensure full regulatory alignment.

This MES project is a cornerstone of GC Biopharma’s digital strategy and a catalyst for operational excellence and accelerated market responsiveness. Together, GC Biopharma and Körber are not only setting a new benchmark for MES adoption in Korea – they are defining the future of smart, agile, and compliant pharmaceutical manufacturing.

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@WerumKarrierec #Koerber  #GCBiopharma #PAuto #MES

Platform certified for MES.

The first partner in the newly established PAS-X Data Access category of the Körber Ecosystem Partner program has been named. This partnership, with eschbach, empowers pharmaceutical manufacturers to leverage PAS-X MES data in Shiftconnector for real-time transparency across teams and departments to increase operational efficiency and excellence.

Andreas Eschbach

"We are proud to be the first partner in Körber’s PAS-X Data Access category. By integrating PAS-X MES data with Shiftconnector, we’re unlocking new levels of transparency and efficiency. This collaboration enables pharma and biopharma enterprises to make faster, smarter decisions, driving operational excellence at every organizational level of manufacturing," said Andreas Eschbach, Chief Executive Officer at eschbach.

In today’s fast-evolving pharmaceutical landscape, manufacturers require integrated systems that streamline production, enhance efficiency, and enable data-driven decision-making. Körber’s PAS-X MES is a cornerstone of modern pharmaceutical manufacturing, ensuring precise execution of production processes while capturing critical data for batch record release, analytics, and AI-driven insights. PAS-X Data Access provides an easy way to work with PAS-X MES data for further use cases and thus supports driving the digitalization of pharma production operations forward.

eschbach, headquarted in Bad Säckingen (D), with a subsidiary in Boston, (MA USA), brings its industry-leading Shiftconnector SaaS platform to tackle these challenges. By providing a centralized platform to monitor manufacturing status in real-time, Shiftconnector creates operational transparency and enhances collaboration among cleanroom operators, control room personnel, shift teams, quality control, and maintenance technicians. Its AI-driven capabilities accelerate access to manufacturing data and organizational knowledge, reducing inefficiencies and minimizing risk.

With nearly 100,000 users globally, eschbach’s Shiftconnector is a trusted solution for leading biopharma and pharmaceutical manufacturers. As a Körber Ecosystem Partner, the platform now seamlessly integrates PAS-X MES data – including production orders, downtime alerts, and deviation reporting – delivering unparalleled insights and operational improvements.

“We are excited to welcome eschbach as our first PAS-X Data Access Partner,” declared Lars Hornung, Senior Principal Alliances & Technology Partners Software at Business Area Pharma. “The introduction of this new partnership category within Körber Partner Ecosystem, along with eschbach as our first partner, reinforces our commitment to fostering interoperable solutions. This collaboration enables manufacturers to unlock the full potential of their MES data, driving operational excellence and informed decision-making.”

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@WerumKarriere  #Koerber #Eschbach #Pharma #PAuto #MES

Digital transformation in life science manufacturing.

Körber has officially certified HighByte Intelligence Hub for seamless integration with PAS-X MES as part of the Körber Ecosytem Partner Program. HighByte has achieved the “PAS-X MSI Plug & Produce” certification. This partnership empowers life sciences manufacturers to fast-track their digital transformation, enabling improved data visibility, enhanced operational agility, and increased manufacturing efficiency.

John Harrington (top)
& Lars Hornung

The Life Sciences industry is rapidly evolving toward the digital factory of the future, where seamless interoperability between systems, equipment, and devices is essential. Critical to this evolution is the convergence of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) systems—allowing real-time data flow across the entire manufacturing ecosystem.

Through this partnership, HighByte Intelligence Hub and PAS-X MES now natively connect using the PAS-X MSI Plug & Produce interface, a pre-validated, out-of-the-box standard. This seamless integration eliminates complex custom coding, reduces deployment timelines, and ensures reliable data exchange between systems, setting the foundation for advanced analytics, process optimisation, and enhanced regulatory compliance.

“Life science manufacturers face unique regulatory and digital challenges – from lack of data standardisation to siloed laboratory, maintenance, and supply chain data. These constraints create an agility paradox. While processes need to be closely controlled, analytics requires a real-time, iterative approach,” says John Harrington, Chief Product Officer at HighByte. “This is why the seamless integration between PAS-X MES and HighByte Intelligence Hub is so powerful. The collaboration demonstrates our commitment to providing a best-in-class integrated solution for our mutual customers and the life sciences market.”

“We are committed to delivering robust and flexible solutions that enhance pharmaceutical manufacturing processes,” explains Lars Hornung, Senior Principal Alliances & Technology Partners Software at Körber Business Area Pharma. “HighByte’s technology complements this vision by simplifying the integration of MES with data applications and automation sources through standard interfaces. Together, we help manufacturers streamline their digital initiatives, making real-time data a cornerstone of smarter, more flexible production environments.”

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@WerumKarriere @HighByteInc #Koerber #Pharma #PAuto #MES

Certified for seamless pharmaceutical equipment integration.

Körber has certified Quindoo for its quiMSI product as a “PAS-X MSI Plug & Produce” Körber Ecosystem partner at the “Certified” level. This helps to seamlessly integrate pharmaceutical equipment.

quiMSI provides pharmaceutical manufacturers with a straightforward and efficient way to connect their shopfloor equipment and automation systems to the PAS-X MES. This capability is critical in ensuring smooth communication across operational layers, improving production efficiency, and supporting compliance with regulatory requirements.

Lars Hornung, Senior Principal Alliances & Technology Partners Software at Business Area Pharma, emphasizes the importance of such collaborations: “At Körber, we are committed to enabling our customers with robust and flexible solutions to further improve pharmaceutical manufacturing. quiMSI aligns very well with our mission to simplify the integration of MES with the automation level through out-of-the-box interfaces. We are delighted to welcome Quindoo in our MSI partner ecosystem.”

“Integration on the automation side remains challenging due to heterogeneous system landscapes. Körber takes a significant step toward Plug & Produce for shopfloor connectivity with its MSI interface technology. quiMSI, the Swiss Army knife of L2-integration, supports this with a plugin-based, extensible modular concept, enabling cost-reduced integration within hours instead of weeks,” says Werner Huber, Product Owner (quiMSI) from Quindoo.

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@WerumKarriere #Koerber #Quindoo  #Pharma #PAuto #MES

Implementing Factory of Excellence in Pharma.

Körber has signed a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement with Tonghua Anrate Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Anrate), a Chinese pioneering biopharmaceutical company. Mr. Wei Xiang, Managing Director of Anrate, and Mr. Jerry Zheng, Managing Director China of Körber Business Area, among others, attended the signing ceremony.

Körber is to provide Anrate with a series of smart manufacturing and digital transformation solutions, including but not limited to fully automated pharmaceutical machines, production software, digital solutions, comprehensive training as well as technical support services. These solutions will further enhance Anrate's Factory of Excellence level in regards of management operations. By introducing Werum PAS-X MES and Werum PAS-X Savvy, Anrate is expected to build a smart factory that balances compliance and efficiency, achieving interconnection of software and hardware data in all stages of pharmaceutical production, accelerating the company's digital process, thereby promoting high-quality sustainable development in the industry.

Mr. Wei Xiang, Managing Director of Anrate expressed with joy: "On the occasion of Anrate's tenth anniversary, we are very pleased to have a comprehensive and in-depth cooperation with Körber, whose solutions have unique innovative awareness and industry's best practice experience. We look forward to leveraging the complementary strengths of both parties to provide strong technical support for Anrate's development."

As a leading representative of the biopharmaceutical industry, Anrate has always regarded digital and intelligent construction as one of the company's core strategies. The signing of this strategic cooperation agreement will enable Anrate to leverage Körber's continuous technological innovation and solutions since 1895 in the pharmaceutical industry to further enhance the company's smart factory level and manufacturing efficiency.

"Technology-assisted is the future direction of pharmaceutical development. Our solutions not only focus on the factory level but also take into account the special requirements of regulatory agencies and the pharmaceutical industry itself," said Mr. Jerry Zheng, Managing Director China of Körber Business Area, "We are firmly convinced that together we can further establish the concept of the "Factory of Excellence" in the pharmaceutical industry and thus create a technological breakthrough that will stand for efficiency and future orientation."

The signing of this strategic agreement is an important step for Anrate towards smart manufacturing and also another important investment by Körber in the Chinese market. "New Quality Productivity" is a new goal of industrial manufacturing advocated by the Chinese government. Körber and Anrate will work together to achieve intelligence, efficiency, and green production in the biopharmaceutical industry, and strive to set an example of smart manufacturing in the Chinese pharmaceutical industry.

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@WerumKarriere #Koerber #Anrate #MES #Pharma #China

Secure and contactless shopfloor identification in pharma.

A strengthened partnership with Nymi, a biometric wearable company, has been announced by Körber. This is to deliver secure and contactless user authentication solutions in pharmaceutical production.

Building on a foundation of successful collaboration in the past, Nymi now joins the Körber Ecosystem as part of the “PAS-X K.ME-IN” partner certification program on the “Ready” level. This partnership signifies a closer collaboration between the two companies, as Nymi’s wearable technology now directly integrates with Körber’s PAS-X MES through the PAS-X K.ME-IN standard interface without the need for third-party systems.

Lars Hornung

In combination with devices from partners such as Nymi, PAS-X K.ME-IN leverages biometric authentication to simplify and speed-up user access to PAS-X MES without compromising any access rules configured in the PAS-X MES user rights management. The system seamlessly integrates with Nymi's Nymi BandTM, a comfortable and discreet wristband that can be worn under protective clothing. This unique wearable identifies each user based on their biometric fingerprint, eliminating the need for usernames, passwords, or PIN codes. Consequently, login times are significantly reduced by over 50 percent.

“We are excited to solidify our partnership with Nymi and provide our PAS-X MES users on version 3.2.8 and above as well as version 3.1.8 PE5 with this solution for secure and efficient shopfloor identification,” says Lars Hornung, Senior Principal Alliances & Technology Partners Software, Körber Business Area Pharma. “PAS-X K.ME-IN, integrated with Nymi’s wearable technology, is an excellent fit for the stringent requirements and expectations in pharmaceutical manufacturing.”

Markus Windisch

“We are proud to have a longstanding partnership with Körber, a collaboration that consistently delivers significant value to our customers. The latest example is the new direct integration between Nymi and PAS-X K.ME-IN, which simplifies the implementation of the Nymi BandTM within the pharma industry’s leading MES. We are excited about a dynamic future filled with ongoing innovation and cooperation,” concludes Markus Windisch, Director of Channel and Alliances at Nymi.

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@WerumKarriere @nymiband #Koerber #MES #Pharma

MES digitalising medicine production processes.

Minaris Regenerative Medicine GmbH (Minaris) is a leading contract development and manufacturing organisation for cell and gene therapies. The company has implemented a digital Manufacturing Execution System (MES), the newest version of Werum PAS-X MES by Körber, at its German site in Ottobrunn near Munich. By doing so, Minaris is converting its production management to digital processes and following the right first time principle for highest quality.

With the MES, already parallel to production, batches can be documented paperless, checked and released within the shortest possible time. “Through the ‘review by exception’ concept, we offer our customers efficient processes and more agility in a cost-effective manner”, said Renate Sporrer, COO of Minaris Regenerative Medicine GmbH.

“We will benefit from operational advantages such as faster batch releases, as well as time and cost savings. Werum PAS-X MES is an important building block for our customers to shorten their time to market.” The status of equipment can also be controlled electronically. In addition, the digital production management system enables Minaris to make a wide range of process information for clients efficiently and quickly available.

Körber's latest version Werum PAS-X MES 3.3 covers all of Minaris’ requirements, which allowed Minaris to implement the software without any customization. By using the “Continuous Evolution Stream” support model, Minaris ensures that the MES system can be updated every six months. The company will regularly benefit from new features as soon as they are released. Via an interface, PAS-X MES integrates the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system into the production IT infrastructure.

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@KoerberPharma @WerumKarriere #PAuto

Hardware gateway for industrial edge and cloud applications

Softing's edgeGate simplifies access to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and Computerized Numerical Controllers (CNC). It enables seamless and secure data integration into advanced management systems such as Enterprise-Resource-Planning (ERP), Manufacturing Execution System (MES) or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA). This integration is available for both new and established facilities. Communication via OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA) ensures a robust and reliable connection.

Additionally, edgeGate provides Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) functionality. This feature facilitates the direct integration of machine data into private or public IoT cloud applications. The MQTT implementation is generic and compatible with multiple cloud providers. Like the OPC UA standard, MQTT supports a range of security mechanisms including encrypted connections, certificates, and user authentication. These features collectively enhance data security significantly.

It is practically maintenance-free and allows connection to controllers without interfering with existing systems. Supported controllers include Siemens Simatic PLC, Siemens Sinumerik controller, Fanuc CNC controller, Modbus TCP, Allen-Bradley PLC, or OPC UA Client machine data. It provides a simple web interface for fast application configuration as well as an additional security layer and communication encryption.

The capabilities of edgeGate can be expanded by integrating the edgeConnector products from Softing Industrial which offer similar functionalities in a Docker-based software version. Another compatible product is Softing’s Docker-based edgeAggregator software which provides a powerful OPC UA data integration layer.

"We are pleased to offer a hardware solution that complements our Docker-based software offering," says Abel Jimenez, Product Manager at Softing Industrial Automation. "edgeGate simplifies the connection of PLC and CNC controllers to management systems with robust communication functions such as OPC UA and MQTT and increases efficiency. edgeGate offers a comprehensive data integration solution that can stand alone or be extended by Softing's Docker-based edgeConnector and edgeAggregator software."

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@SoftingIA @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Manufacturing

MES integration simplified.

Körber has certified Syntegon, a global manufacturer of pharmaceutical process and packaging technology, as “PAS-X MSI Plug & Produce Ready”. This cooperation aims to enable seamless integration of PAS-X MES, their leading Manufacturing Execution System (MES), with Syntegon's systems. This is particularly relevant for joint customers in the pharmaceutical, biotech, and cell and gene therapy industries. Körber's innovative "PAS-X MSI Plug & Produce" interface plays a key role in this, as it enables efficient integration of the two systems with significantly reduced configuration effort.

Lars Horning, Koerber

Lars Hornung, Senior Principal Alliances & Technology Partners Software, Körber Business Area Pharma, eexplained: "The certification of Syntegon in the PAS-X MSI Plug & Produce area is another step in our endeavor to minimize complexity in our customers' production chains within the framework of our Körber Ecosystem approach. Through close cooperation with trusted partners and the provision of integrable solutions, we significantly support our customers in their digital transformation."

Daniel Sturm, Syntegon

Daniel Sturm, Global Product Manager at Syntegon, added: "The close cooperation with Körber in the development phase was smooth thanks to direct contacts, fast support and access to the PAS-X MES test environments. The result, a standardized, pre-tested interface, offers significant added value for our customers and enables a short time-to-market. Ideally, only configurations are required, which are associated with minimal coordination effort and standardized documentation."

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@WerumKarriere @Syntegon #Koerber #MES #Pharma

New comprehensive automation platform.

SCADA, MES and operations management software technologies to promote smarter, safer, optimised and more sustainable operations with new DeltaV.

As part of its Boundless Automation™* vision for helping organisations deliver more seamless operations, Emerson is evolving its DeltaV™ brand into the DeltaV Automation Platform. The newly expanded automation platform will include supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, manufacturing execution systems (MES) and operations management software alongside the distributed control systems (DCS), safety instrumented systems (SIS) and other technologies that have been part of the brand for decades. The evolution builds a more comprehensive automation platform to make it easier for users to deliver smarter, safer, more optimised and more sustainable operations.

Organisations across nearly every industry including life sciences, specialty chemical, mining and extraction, food and beverage, energy and more are experiencing new complexities as they face the modern challenge of improving throughput, performance and quality while simultaneously increasing the sustainability of operations. Navigating this increased complexity requires seamless mobility of data, reliable performance and advanced control strategies from the plant floor to the corporate boardroom. The comprehensive nature of the new DeltaV Automation Platform will empower users to move away from ‘plant-by-plant’ strategies to ‘site-by-site’ or even enterprise automation solutions – the more advanced, integrated automation strategies that are increasingly necessary to compete in a complex global marketplace.

“In an era of increased demand and higher sustainability targets, today’s organisations are looking for ways to manage and contextualise data across the many software solutions they use to help unlock easier, faster and safer decisions,” said Nathan Pettus, president of Emerson’s process systems and solutions business. “The DeltaV Automation Platform will combine a flexible, fit-for-purpose portfolio of DCS, SIS, SCADA, MES and operations management software with unmatched application and cross-industry expertise to help cross-functional teams across the enterprise more easily achieve their goals.”

With an extensive portfolio unified under one brand, users will have access to a comprehensive technology ecosystem that provides a broader suite of solutions. Organisations will more quickly and easily find the right solutions to meet their specific needs and will gain easier access to service, training and support.

All solutions in the DeltaV Automation Platform will be seamlessly supported through the Guardian™ digital customer experience. Users will have a single point of access to Guardian’s digital tools and subscriptions for all their solutions, providing easy access to real-time monitoring, in-depth analytics and actionable insights.

The continuing evolution of the platform will also extend to future Emerson products. Development for DeltaV Automation Platform offerings will focus on products and systems that communicate and work better together, offering users a more cohesive and streamlined experience.

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* See also "Towards "Boundless Automation." (25/10/2022), "Towards next-generation automation platform." (EMREX Americas - 4/10/2023), " Boundless exploration, engaging and evolution on the Rhine!" (EMREX EMEA 4/3/2024)

@EmersonExchange @Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @HHC_Lewis #PAuto

Isolators for GMP-compliant pharma manufacturing.

Franz Ziel, a leading provider of isolators for the pharmaceutical industry, has received the certification “PAS-X MSI Plug & Produce Ready” from Körber*. Franz Ziel’s isolators can now be seamlessly connected to PAS-X MES, Körber’s globally renowned Manufacturing Execution System (MES), in record time.

This certification and close collaboration facilitate the digital transformation of production processes for customers of Körber and Franz Ziel. Franz Ziel’s isolators can be fully integrated with the customer’s PAS-X MES. PAS-X MES digitally controls, monitors, and documents all processes in real time throughout the entire production cycle. As a result, customers gain a comprehensive overview of their production, including isolator data.

Klaus Brockhaus

“We are delighted with the certification, which provides genuine value to our customers. It demonstrates our ability to integrate our isolators seamlessly and rapidly into any PAS-X infrastructure. Our customers benefit from a standardized yet flexible integration process that not only reduces project time but also ensures smooth data exchange during production,” says Klaus Brockhaus, Head of Automation and Qualification at Franz Ziel GmbH. 

Lars Hornung

“Over the past months, we have worked closely with Franz Ziel to advance digitalization and connectivity in pharmaceutical production for our customers within the framework of Pharma 4.0. With the ‘Ready’ certification in the PAS-X MSI Plug & Produce domain, we have now reached the next level of collaboration,” comments Lars Hornung, Senior Principal Alliances & Technology Partners Software at Körber Business Area Pharma.

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* The certification is a result of the close partnership between Franz Ziel and Körber, which was announced in last year. Körber acquired a minority share of the Franz Ziel GmbH to deepen their collaborative partnership and expand Körber’s ecosystem with Franz Ziel’s innovative isolator technology. By linking interdisciplinary competencies and technologies within the Körber ecosystem, the individual wishes and needs of customers can be addressed even more holistically and the complexity of pharmaceutical production can be significantly reduced.

@WerumKarriere #Koerber #MES #Pharma 

 

Digitising packaging lines.

Drug manufacturer Heel has successfully implemented Werum PAS-X MES 3.3.0, Körber's NextGen MES for pharma, biotech, and cell & gene therapy, at its main plant in Baden-Baden (D). The pioneer in scientific research into natural pharmaceuticals has been producing medicines, such as Neurexan® and Traumeel®, based on natural active ingredients for over 80 years.

Built on more than 30 years of expertise and leading IT technologies, PAS-X MES 3.3.0 is GMP-compliant and designed to meet the future requirements of the industry. It can be integrated into any IT infrastructure via simple and secure interfaces – whether in the customer's data center, in the cloud or as a Körber-managed “Software as a Service”.

The NextGen MES offers maximum functionality as standard, so the system has been implemented “out-of-the-box”, allowing for seamless upgrades in the future. The implementation process followed the proven ready-fit-build-run method: many of the MES implementation tasks were taken over by Körber, which reduced the customer's workload and accelerated the implementation of the system.

“The successful introduction of PAS-X MES for the digital processing and documentation of packaging orders is an important milestone in the digitalization of our production,” says Monika Gartner, Head of Digital Transformation, Biologische Heilmittel Heel GmbH. “We have a very good, open and cooperative business relationship with the Körber team, characterized by mutual trust.”

With the help of PAS-X MES 3.3.0, Heel has digitized the first four packaging lines, replacing the paper-based packaging documentation of its products. The integration was implemented almost as standard, so that more than 2,000 finished products can be processed with just a few generic MBRs. SAP ERP is fully integrated via a standard interface. The customization of numerous bills of material and production versions from SAP has paid off: Heel can now automatically perform reconciliations in Electronic Batch Recording and benefit from the parallel Batch Record Review.

“Both the project team and the packaging team contributed greatly to the successful implementation of the project. They have been involved from the very beginning and have received comprehensive information and training through our specially developed training concept,” she continued.

In the next step, Heel will introduce PAS-X KPI in the packaging area. The software application is designed to monitor the performance of packaging machines in real-time, ensuring that machine utilization and overall equipment effectiveness is maximized.

“We are looking forward to further projects on the path to digital transformation and our 'Factory of Excellence'. In the coming months and years, we are going to gradually roll out PAS-X MES in other production areas. Integration into all processes is an essential step towards full digitalization,” concluded Monika Gartner from Heel.

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@KoerberPharma @WerumKarriere #Heel #PAuto #Pharma