GCCL (Global Clinical Central Lab), a South Korea-based leading provider of clinical trial sample analysis, and Frontage Laboratories, Inc., a USA based full-service contract research organization (CRO), announced on September 23 that they had signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) pursuant to which they intend to explore ways to strengthen their presence in the global clinical trial market.

In signing the MOU, GCCL and Frontage intend to consider opportunities to leverage the complementary services and networks of both companies to enhance competitiveness, particularly in the United States and Asia-Pacific (APAC) regions, while driving mutual growth. In particular, during the signing ceremony, the two companies reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration and discussed opportunities for cooperation including joint clinical trial services in the U.S.A. and APAC regions, co-marketing and project support initiatives, development of new business opportunities, and additional initiatives.

In addition, GCCL and Frontage will combine their respective regional expertise and global networks to collaborate in executing clinical trial projects while increasing efficiency and differentiation of services for clients worldwide. In doing so, GCCL would expect to further strengthen its global capabilities, while Frontage would look to bolster its clinical trial support system in the APAC region.

"Through this MOU, Frontage is hoping to develop a relationship with GCCL with the goal of reinforcing its presence in the APAC market and work closely with GCCL to providing faster and more efficient support for global clinical trials," said Dr. Nan Zhang, MD. PhD., Senior Vice President of Frontage. "By finding paths to collaborate and leverage the expertise and client networks of both companies, we would hope to further enhance the global clinical trial ecosystem and deliver high-quality, trusted services to our customers."

KwanGoo Cho, CEO of GCCL, added, "We are hoping to develop a strategic relationship with Frontage focused on a spirit of collaboration. By working together, GCCL's bioanalytical and central lab expertise in APAC and Frontage's global capabilities may create new growth opportunities in the global clinical trial market for both companies. As always, we continue to aim to set a new standard in clinical trial execution and deliver meaningful analytical outcomes to our clients."