Sterilab Services, a leading supplier of diagnostic consumables in the UK, has been appointed as an authorised distributor for Copan, the globally recognised brand in microbiological specimen collection and transport.
This strategic partnership is set to expand access to Copan’s premium pre-analytical solutions across NHS microbiology departments, private healthcare providers, and research facilities. With diagnostic testing volumes projected to rise significantly over the coming winter months, ensuring a robust and reliable supply chain for high-quality swabs will be essential for protecting patient outcomes and maintaining efficiency across the healthcare system.
Copan swabs are widely regarded as the industry benchmark for microbiological sampling. The firm's advanced flocked swab technology and validated transport media are designed to maximise sample recovery and preserve specimen integrity. In an era where diagnostic accuracy is directly linked to clinical decision-making and treatment outcomes, Copan products offer laboratories a clear advantage. Compatibility with automated laboratory systems further strengthens their value, reducing the risk of manual errors and enabling laboratories to process samples at scale without compromising quality. By cutting down on invalid results and the need for resampling, these swabs not only improve patient safety but also reduce costs associated with repeat testing, a critical consideration for resource-stretched NHS laboratories.
Sterilab is enhancing the relationship with comprehensive customer support tailored specifically to the needs of NHS laboratories. Each laboratory will be assigned a dedicated account manager with specialist knowledge of diagnostic workflows. This ensures seamless integration of Copan products into existing protocols and provides laboratories with a direct line to expert guidance. Sterilab is also offering on-site consultations, procurement planning, and proactive stock assurance; services that will prove vital during peak demand periods. These measures are designed to help laboratories maintain continuity of care and avoid the operational disruptions that can result from supply shortages.
The timing of this collaboration is particularly significant. With the healthcare system preparing for seasonal pressures, including a likely rise in respiratory and wound-related infections, access to reliable specimen collection tools has never been more important. The combination of Copan’s trusted product portfolio and Sterilab’s hands-on, UK-based service model offers healthcare providers the resilience needed to manage winter testing surges. By strengthening the supply of world-class diagnostic tools within the UK, this partnership underscores a shared commitment to supporting laboratories in delivering fast, accurate, and reliable results, ultimately improving patient outcomes across the country.
For more information contact Sterilab Services: 01423 523 300 [email protected]