Blood Pack Changes

We have recently awarded a new contract for blood pack supply from November 2023 onwards. 

You will be aware from previous communications, that we were undertaking validation on the new blood packs as part of our tender process. The validations were successful, and we are now ready to implement these packs from the new suppliers.

The majority of blood packs will not change, with the exception of some minor cosmetic changes to the pack base label. These changes will mostly be covered by NHSBT product and ABO labelling. The pack reference and lot number barcodes are still visible at the bottom of the base label. 

A change of supplier applies to these, only: 

Neonatal Platelets

Previous supplier - Macopharma

New supplier - Fresenius Kabi

Differences - port covering tears horizontally not vertically 

Clinical buffy coats & some apheresis FFP

Previous supplier - Macopharma

New supplier - Fresenius Kabi

Differences - port covering tears horizontally not vertically; clearer in colour

The switch over to the new suppliers will take place from November. You'll continue to see blood packs from the current suppliers for an extended period until we've depleted our stock. 

We'll also be doing some validation work of additional suppliers, to ensure we have robust business continuity. You'll only see minor cosmetic changes with these blood packs.

If you have any queries, please contact your Hospital Service department or Customer Service Manager.

Jane Davies - Assistant Head of Manufacturing Development.