The Medica/CompaMed trade fair is one of the largest exhibitions of medical devices, healthtech, and wellness products in the world. In addition to the finished device OEMs, a significant number of supply chain partners that support those companies also exhibit at the event. Combined, visitors can typically find anything they are seeking, from drug delivery innovations to hospital beds to component fabrication service providers. Regardless of where someone is in the care chain, the event should prove useful to all.

Unfortunately, because so many companies are showcasing their products and capabilities at the event, it’s nearly impossible to meet with every organization that might add value. Therefore, MPO has spoken with several exhibitors who are prepared and capable of serving medical device manufacturers looking for new or specialized partners to address the challenges they are currently facing or expect to face on future projects. The following “From the Booth” feature with Robert Ledger, senior content manager at Evonik, will offer insights on whether you are the right fit to collaborate.

Sean Fenske: What technology or service are you emphasizing at Medica/CompaMed this year?

Robert Ledger: We’re spotlighting VECOLLAN, our recombinant collagen platform with strong potential for the orthopedics market—now available in a clinical-grade. It mimics the triple-helix structure of natural collagen and offers tunable mechanical and biological properties. In addition, it can be processed into sponges, gels, coatings, and more.

Our broader portfolio includes RESOMER bioresorbable polymers, DEGACRYL acrylics, and VESTAKEEP PEEK, supporting applications from temporary implants to long-term structural devices.

Fenske: What’s the most common challenge customers inquire about and how do you address it?

Ledger: One of the most frequent challenges our customers face is processing customized biomaterials for complex medical applications. These challenges often involve achieving precise degradation rates, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility. Evonik addresses these through collaborative polymer synthesis, application, and regulatory support services.

Fenske: If you could give one piece of advice to companies seeking a manufacturing partner before they make a decision, what would it be?

Ledger: Look for a partner that offers a holistic approach to medical device manufacturing—one that can support customization, processing, and regulatory strategy. The right partner should help navigate complexity, accelerate development, and enhance patient outcomes.

Fenske: What are the forces driving medical device manufacturers to seek your technology/services over doing it in-house?

Ledger: Medical device manufacturers increasingly face pressure to innovate quickly while managing regulatory complexity and cost. By partnering with Evonik, manufacturers gain access to a comprehensive toolbox that enables faster, safer, and more cost-effective innovation.

Fenske: In what ways is your company able to aid in getting a product (project) to market faster?

Ledger: Evonik accelerates product development through:

• Material customization and prototyping services
• Advanced processing technology support, including 3D printing, extrusion, and injection molding
• Integrated regulatory support, including technical dossiers and ISO/GMP compliance
• Global competence centers that provide localized support and collaborative R&D

Evonik is located at Medica/CompaMed in Hall 8B, Booth/Stand D04.