Immunohematological diagnostics specialists work to ensure that transfusion patients receive blood that is compatible with their blood group.

Fribourg is home to not one, but two big hitters in the fast-moving medical diagnostics sector: Bio-Rad, in Cressier, and Medion Grifols Diagnostics (MGD), in Düdingen. Since they were founded in 1957 and 1977 respectively, both firms have built a stellar reputation thanks to their expertise and capacity to innovate.

Medion Grifols Diagnostics, which has been part of Spanish giant Grifols since 2009 and employs 70 people at its Düdingen plant, is a leader in the specialist field of immunohematology. It plays a central role in the manufacture of diagnostic reagents that are critical for safe and compatible blood transfusions. MGD exports 75% of its output. Private and hospitals laboratories in over 50 countries worldwide currently use MGD products.

The Fribourg-based company is also heavily involved in research and development, as Managing Director Dr. Martin Spicher points out, “We are also well-placed to respond to emerging challenges in the medical sector because we have our own R&D department here in Düdingen.” Having such an infrastructure in place allows the company to remain agile and responsive to changes in the market.

Safer transfusions

In 2023, MGD once again demonstrated its innovator credentials with the launch of Grifols sCD38, a product designed to overcome the interference that certain cancer therapies have on patients’ blood values. “These drugs can distort the results of pre-transfusion blood tests. Given that it is critical for patient health that the blood they receive is compatible with their blood group, our new tool enables laboratories to improve transfusion safety and reliability, even in the most complex of cases,” the boss of MGD explains. Grifols sCD38, which has been awarded the CE mark, is further proof of the company’s commitment to making global healthcare delivery safer. Spicher is rightfully proud of the MGD’s new diagnostics solution, “It may be a niche product, but it has already proven its market potential.”

Martin Spicher is determined to make Medion Grifols Diagnostics a major contributor to the canton’s rising status as a life sciences hub. Going forward, the company plans to deepen and consolidate its immunohematology expertise, while continuing its work on new solutions that meet the growing needs of the health sector. “Our state-of-the-art facilities, coupled with our proximity to the universities of Fribourg and Bern and close ties with the cantonal authorities, create the perfect environment for growth.”