One of the UK’s most established contract manufacturer of wet wipes and sachets, Guardpack, has been awarded funding through Anglia Ruskin University’s Arise ABOVE Programme.
This achievement will be instrumental in enabling the company to take the first steps towards obtaining ISO 13485 certification.
ISO 13485, the internationally recognised standard for quality management systems in medical device manufacturing, underscores Guardpack’s development into serving the healthcare and life sciences sectors. By implementing a robust quality management system, Guardpack will position itself to meet the precise quality demands of these industries, delivering integrated solutions that align with customer requirements.
The funding from the ABOVE Programme has provided critical support for the initial establishment of this quality management system (QMS). This QMS lays the foundation for Guardpack to expand into medical device manufacturing, ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory standards and bolstering its reputation as a trusted supplier to the healthcare sector.
Guardpack Managing Director, Jeremy Freedman said: “Our journey to ISO 13485 certification represents a significant milestone for Guardpack. The Arise ABOVE Programme will enable us to align with the high-quality expectations of our customers in the healthcare and life sciences industries. This achievement not only strengthens our current capabilities but also positions us for future growth as a key player in medical device manufacturing.”
The Arise ABOVE Programme, part of Anglia Ruskin University’s Arise Innovation Hubs, is a targeted initiative supporting HealthTech and MedTech businesses. Offering grants of up to £5,000, alongside access to expert advice and networking opportunities, the programme empowers SMEs to innovate, collaborate, and thrive in competitive markets.
The funding for the ABOVE programme has been provided by Essex County Council as part of their 10-year sector strategy to grow life science, digitech, advanced manufacturing and engineering sectors, leading to more opportunity, jobs and growth across Greater Essex.
Arise Innovation Hubs are working closely with partners Medilink Midlands, a specialist provider of support to the life science sector, to help SMEs overcome barriers to growth in the delivery of ABOVE.
By connecting Guardpack with ARU’s extensive ecosystem of research, development, and innovation, the funding has provided the resources necessary to enhance its operations while ensuring the company meets the rigorous demands of ISO 13485 certification.
