West Pharmaceutical Services

The journey of West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. began in 1923 in a modest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania location, where Herman O. West embarked on manufacturing rubber plungers for dental cartridges. It wasn't long before his entrepreneurial spirit identified another growth avenue: aluminum seals. This dual focus laid the groundwork for a company that would become integral to the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. The demand for aluminum products surged, leading to the formal establishment of West's Aluminum Division in 1945. A pivotal moment in the company's early history was its collaboration with Eli Lilly during World War II. This partnership was crucial in addressing the challenge of mass-producing and supplying penicillin for the U.S. Government, showcasing West's early commitment to innovation and public health. Herman O. West's vision extended beyond mere manufacturing; he aimed to make a positive global impact. His perseverance, encapsulated in his oft-used phrase 'Keep everlastingly at it,' and his meticulous attention to quality became foundational principles of the company. Even through the Great Depression, his sales acumen ensured a steady flow of orders, solidifying the company's resilience.

Over the decades, West Pharmaceutical Services evolved from a component manufacturer into a global leader in integrated containment and delivery systems for injectable medicines. This transformation involved strategic expansions, partnerships, and a relentless focus on innovation to meet the increasingly complex needs of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. The company went public in 1970, marking a significant milestone in its growth trajectory. Today, West operates globally, with numerous manufacturing sites, research and development centers, and analytical labs across North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Headquartered in Exton, Pennsylvania, on a street aptly named Herman O. West Drive, the company employs thousands of team members worldwide. Their product portfolio is extensive, encompassing stoppers, seals, syringe and cartridge components, self-injection systems, and advanced containment solutions like the Daikyo Crystal Zenith® polymer. West also provides contract manufacturing services, leveraging its expertise in injection molding and assembly. The company's enduring commitment is to work alongside its customers to ensure the safe and effective delivery of life-saving and life-enhancing medicines to patients globally, a testament to the enduring legacy of its founder's vision.