"We have been growing at an approximate rate of 30% per year in sales, closing contracts in over 15 new markets, thus reinforcing the internationalization of Laboratórios Azevedos, a strategic driver of its development."

15 June, 2023

Patrícia Monteiro, our International Business Development, takes the spotlight in our latest interview. With a focus on Laboratórios Azevedos' internationalization process, Patrícia shares valuable insights on strategy, added value, and overall progress. Dive into the interview to discover her comprehensive responses and gain a deeper understanding of Laboratórios Azevedos' global journey.

Grupo Azevedos is 100% Portuguese, but it with presence on all five continents. How would you characterize the Group's international presence?

 The internationalization of Grupo Azevedos as a whole has been a strategic driver of its development.

In recent decades, the Group has been diversifying its markets and exploring new areas for business growth, taking the AZEVEDOS brand to new horizons.

Today, we have a presence on all five continents with operations ranging from manufacturing for third parties to the export and licensing of Laboratórios Azevedos' own products. Currently, Grupo Azevedos operates in over 90 countries.

What does the international business of Laboratórios Azevedos consist of?

The international business of Laboratórios Azevedos consists of licensing our own products, which are developed and manufactured by us, to reach worldwide markets. Within this scope, we license and manufacture products to be marketed under the Azevedos brand or the client's brand, always based on our intellectual property.

Our focus is primarily on prescription medications, but we also offer consumer healthcare products (OTC and food supplements).

In your opinion, what are the main advantages of having Laboratórios Azevedos as a manufacturer and partner?

Quality: In addition to EU-GMP (European Union Good Manufacturing Practices) recognition, our factory holds several globally recognized certifications from various authorities.

Technology and Technical Expertise: On an industrial level, we have a team of highly skilled experts. We recently renovated our injectable lyophilized products area, which now boasts state-of-the-art facilities in accordance with the latest European good manufacturing practice guidelines. Furthermore, we have a regulatory quality team with extensive experience that supports customers in the registration processes in each market and throughout the life cycle of the medicinal products within our partnerships.

Production Capacity: Our modern and efficient facilities have the capacity to meet high volumes of demand, which is essential for hospital tenders. We are one of the largest Iberian manufacturers of injectable lyophilized products and also produce solids and semi-solids. This flexibility allows us to adapt to the needs of our partners.

Transparency: We always share both good and challenging news with our partners, providing timely solutions and conveying complete confidence.

How would you describe the evolution of the international department of Laboratórios Azevedos in the last 3 years?

Since 2020, we have experienced an approximate annual sales growth of 30%, primarily driven by the optimization of current partnerships. Additionally, we have secured contracts in over 15 new markets, which will contribute to sustained growth in the medium to long term.

Recognizing the importance of consistency in the hospital market's supply chain and timely deliveries, we have implemented an enhanced system of proactive and frequent communication with our partners regarding ongoing orders. This enables us to address any issues swiftly and efficiently.

At Laboratórios Azevedos, we adhere to the principle that "A satisfied customer is the best business strategy of all," as expressed by Michael LeBoeuf. We prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to provide exceptional service and support to our partners.

What are the strategic pillars for the international business development of Laboratórios Azevedos?

1. To focus on the core business of our portfolio: injectable lyophilized products;
2. To consolidate our presence in Europe, expand in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, and enter in the US market by establishing new value-added partnerships, especially in new and untapped markets;
3. To continue contributing to the growth of our strategic partners;
4. To establish an internal structure for the active direct participation of Grupo Azevedos in international tenders.