Vertex Pharmaceuticals Case Study - Laying the Foundation for European Digital Transformation
Vertex Pharmaceuticals is a global biopharmaceutical leader specializing in cystic fibrosis medications. To streamline its pharmacy order processes and prepare for broader European digitalization, Vertex launched a secure B2B ecommerce portal in Germany powered by Cloudfy.
With sensitive data, low SKU volume, and a need for multilingual access, the project required a platform that balanced simplicity, scalability, and strict compliance. Vertex selected Cloudfy for its healthcare experience, self service capabilities, and flexible integration approach.
Products
Solution: B2B ecommerce portal for pharmacy ordering
Integration: API integration with middleware (ERP exempt)
Features: Order management, multi language setup, secure access, PDF/email integration
The Challenge
Before Cloudfy, pharmacy orders in Germany were processed manually via email and fax by Vertex’s third party logistics partner. This increased the risk of fraud, slowed transaction speed, and placed pressure on internal resources. Additionally, due to data protection protocols, direct ERP integration was not viable at the time.
Vertex required a secure, pharmacy only ecommerce environment that enabled digital ordering without exposing sensitive system data. The portal needed to be simple yet compliant, providing a strong foundation for future digital growth across Europe.
Our Approach
- Secure Ordering for Sensitive Medicines : Cloudfy delivered a login protected ecommerce portal tailored to pharmacy users. With fewer than 20 SKUs, the design focused on clarity and usability, ensuring pharmacies could quickly find, select, and submit orders with minimal friction.
- API Middleware Integration : Due to data protection policies, Cloudfy did not connect directly to Vertex’s ERP. Instead, APIs were routed to a secure middleware layer provided by the client. Cloudfy’s flexible integration framework supported this requirement, maintaining efficiency without compromising compliance.
- Multi-language Support : The portal was launched in German with support for future language expansion as rollout extends to other countries. This ensures scalability without the need for a full rebuild.
- Simple, Focused User Interface : Given the low product volume and specific audience, the site emphasizes secure login, order submission, and PDF/email order confirmations. Account modules ensure users can view and track their orders easily, with full traceability.
Results
Although the system was not connected directly to the ERP, pharmacies now benefit from a digital ordering channel that reduces reliance on email and fax, and mitigates fraud risks. The go live in October 2023 marked a key milestone in Vertex’s European digitalization strategy.
While the system is currently limited to Germany, the foundation has been laid for broader rollout across Europe, pending full SAP S/4HANA integration.
Cloudfy enabled us to digitize a sensitive part of our pharmacy workflow without overcomplicating the process. Their adaptability around integration and security requirements was key.
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