Case Study June 3, 2025
Tracking PFAS in the Global Supply Chain
Trexin helped a large MedTech leader survey its suppliers to fully inventory the presence of “forever chemicals” in their products.
Business Driver
Our Client, a multibillion-dollar medical technology manufacturer, faced potential supply chain disruptions due to tightening regulations on the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) coupled with major supplier decisions to halt the manufacturing of PFAS. These conditions led to product recalls, production delays, and increased costs for life-saving medical devices. Additionally, our Client wanted to ensure their own full compliance with upcoming bans and regulations surrounding PFAS chemicals to stay true to their company’s mission and address business liability concerns. To help mitigate these risks and optimize their supply chain for the future, our Client engaged Trexin to develop and execute an expedient methodology to survey and collect PFAS-related data from their extensive supply network of over 3,000 suppliers.
Approach
Trexin’s strategy to address these disruptive changes centered on a multifaceted approach to streamline and enhance the efficiency of our Client’s supplier outreach efforts. Trexin organized the supplier outreach program into distinct workstreams to achieve a more efficient workflow, communication, and allocation of Client resources. Suppliers were categorized based on responsiveness, allowing for tailored outreach strategies with supplier priority being indicated by operating unit. Trexin was initially responsible for high-priority suppliers which received direct engagement to maximize survey response rates and ensure data accuracy. Lower priority suppliers were eventually handed off to Trexin if communication could not be established through automated rather than targeted outreach. Although not all suppliers were initially responsive or willing to complete the survey, the team’s commitment to open dialogue around the use of PFAS encouraged supplier participation. To provide clear direction for the outreach activities, Trexin developed process flow documentation and strategic recommendations, ensuring all parties were aligned with Client goals and methodologies.
Results
This critical and time-sensitive initiative aimed to precisely determine the presence of PFAS within products and manufacturing processes across our Client’s network. Through a strategic and organized approach, Trexin not only navigated the complexities of PFAS use assessment but also reinforced our Client’s commitment to regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility. By the end of the project, 3,085 suppliers were contacted, 1,530 surveys were completed, and 1,971 suppliers had an overall complete status. This initiative demonstrated the power of targeted engagement and clear communication in overcoming and anticipating supply chain challenges, a crucial step in helping our Client with compliance strategy and supply chain continuity.
