With better weather on the way (so they say!) mobility retailers around the country will be looking to ensure they are well stocked up on the latest mobility and access innovations. Of course any retailer of mobility products that has a showroom should never overlook the possibility of additional sales with add-on items or accessories.
Once you have sold the features and benefits of the mobility device, be it a wheelchair or scooter, there is often the time to offer items that will enhance the customer’s enjoyment of that product. With this in mind check out our round-up of the best products on the market in our Retailers’ Choice (p12) and Buyers’ Guide (p44) features.
Retailers looking to better harness customer loyalty would also be advised to turn to page 18 for some advice from David Russeell, the former THIIS Magazine founder. The extract is from his latest book, which is full of “581/2” marketing gems no less!
This issue, meet the new leadership team at Liftability (p23), a provider of stairlifts and mobility solutions in the south of England. They discuss their vision for the future, including plans to modernise their showroom and product offerings.
THIIS also chats to Mark Hermolle, Managing Director of Kymco UK (p32), who discusses his history with the business and the firm’s collaborative approach to designing mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs.
If you have any news from your business to share with THIIS Magazine readers, whether it’s an important milestone or a new showroom don’t hesitate to get in touch with me now (details to the right).
A round-up of the key trade stories for business leaders to digest
Mobility equipment supplier Oak Tree Mobility has launched a new collection of fabric rise and recline chairs featuring designs from the iconic British design firms, Morris & Co. and Edinburgh Weavers.
The Heritage Collection aims to redefine the standards of aesthetic appeal and functionality in rise and
recline chairs, blending Oak Tree Mobility’s made-to-measure product range with William Morris’s textile patterns and Edinburgh Weavers designs.
Each piece is handcrafted in Britain, ensuring a personalised and comfortable fit for customers, while being both functional and durable.
Bolton-based manufacturer Edinburgh Weavers is known for fusing art and textiles to create uniquely designed fabrics and handmade luxury cushions.
The collection draws inspiration from William Morris’s enduring belief in the beauty of the natural world with intricate floral and foliage motifs.
A campaign founded by the Centre for Ageing Better is calling for a national strategy to tackle the poor quality of the country’s homes after a survey it commissioned revealed that there are 3.7 million dangerous homes in the UK blighting the lives of their inhabitants.
The Safe Homes Now campaign, which is already being supported by nine charities, including St John Ambulance, Race Equality Foundation and The Runnymede Trust, is calling for a national strategy to tackle the poor quality of the country’s homes.
Currently eight million people live in 3.7 million dangerous homes that are cold, in need of repair or have serious hazards, and the campaign is calling on the UK Government to halve is number over the next decade.
Moving and handling specialist Care & Independence has announced the launch of its own YouTube channel, hailing it as a convenient resource packed with valuable content for healthcare professionals.
With over 70 videos available, the Care & Independence channel is designed to cater to the needs of busy healthcare professionals for whom time is often precious.
The YouTube channel offers visual fitting guides, operational instructions, comprehensive product introductions, and more for products across the Care & Independence portfolio of Glove sling, bathing, Burnett Remould and Comfort Value ranges.
To access the videos and stay updated with new video releases, visit www.youtube.com/@ careandindependence and subscribe.
Assistive technology provider BES Healthcare has partnered with NUA Medical to launch an environmentally-friendly pressure area care solution. The NEST cushion and mattress offers a holistic solution that integrates MDR-compliant Kluge & Fielitz washerdisinfectors. At the heart of the solution is its fully washable and recyclable NEST technology, which claims to offer both clinical effectiveness and environmental advantages.
Over 500 traditional and contemporary walking sticks, folding canes, seat sticks and umbrellas available from stock
The Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) has been awarded a grant of £800,000 from the Motability Foundation to help with its work in supporting disabled people travel independently and confidently. The grant will be delivered over two years through its 'Travelling with Confidence' grant programme.
The SIA plans to build on its digital resource to boost information about active travel and making journeys.
THE CENTAUR GOES INTO PRODUCTION
Wheelchair design company
Centaur Robotics has secured £500,000 funding to enable the self-balancing electric wheelchair it developed begin production. The funding was secured from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund. The Centaur self-balances on two wheels, which allows increased mobility compared to traditional four-wheel models.
NRS HEALTHCARE CYBER HACK
Independent living aids manufacturer NRS Healthcare has been working to replace its technology infrastructure after its services were disrupted by a cyber security incident on 29 March. NRS Healthcare saw its phone lines, emails and website all affected by the cyber hack.
STAIRLIFT MARKETING SUPPORT
As part of its ongoing support for its UK partner network, Access BDD has released a new suite of marketing material for its HomeGlide outdoor stairlift. The new material consists of lifestyle photography, video footage, and a standalone brochure that will help its UK partners when they talk to potential customers.
Wheelchair Alliance, the organisation which champions the needs of wheelchair users across England, has appointed a new chief operating officer.
Nick Goldup has taken the helm at the Alliance following many years as a director within the charity sector, including six years as Director of Care Improvement at the Motor Neurone Disease Association and five years at Whizz-Kidz, a charity which provides wheelchairs and support to more than 10,000 children across the UK.
Nick will also continue as Chair of the Alliance, a position he has held since August 2020.
Mobility retailer Lifestyle & Mobility has appointed Richard Chiassaro (above, centre), an active coach on Team GB and former Paralympic athlete, as a wheelchair advisor at its business.
Richard, who has featured at two Paralympic Games and is the former T54 800m world record holder, will be focusing on active wheelchair assessments at Lifestyle & Mobility’s showroom in Harlow, Essex.
Ryan Curtis, Branch Manager at Lifestyle & Mobility in Harlow, commented: “We feel that Richard is well positioned to offer great advice as a wheelchair user himself and he will inspire our customers.”
Lift solutions provider Stannah has announced the launch of Uplifts by Stannah, its new dedicated homelift brand.
Making its debut at the Exposanità healthcare exhibition in Italy last month, the Uplifts team showcased what distributors can expect once the range becomes available for order in Italy, France, and the UK this month.
Sam Stannah, the managing director of Uplifts, commented: “The innovation and technology that the team has brought to market means that this homelift can fit in almost any home, solving the problems of the past and allowing customers around the world to make their home truly theirs.”
Striking a balance between aesthetics and functionality, the homelift features light-filled cabins, wood-trimmed doors and discreet rail guides. Boasting an array of safety features, Stannah states that every element is designed to elevate the home environment while prioritising user safety and comfort.
WHEN? 10-11 May 2024
WHERE? Sparkford, Somerset
www.brotherwood.com/ exhibitions/show
Our guide to the key upcoming events in the UK and abroad for the mobility and access sector...
WHEN? 22-24 May 2024
www.themedtechforum.eu
WHERE? Vienna, Austria
Yonder walking stick
• Folds to just 36cm
• Available in silver or black
• Adjustable height options
WHEN? 17-18 May 2024
WHERE? NEC, Birmingham motabilitythebigevent.co.uk /birmingham NAEP ANNUAL CONFERENCE
WHEN? 12-14 June 2024
WHERE? Warwick, Warwickshire naep.org.uk/conference-2024
WHEN? 28-29 June 2024
WHERE? Exeter Westpoint
motabilitythebigevent.co.uk/ exeter/
WHEN? 5-6 July 2024
WHERE?
ExCeL London
www.thedisabilityexpo.com
WHEN? 15-17 July 2024
WHERE? The International Centre, Telford www.pmguk.co.uk
WHEN? 7 July 2024
WHERE? Windsor Great Park
www.parallellifestyle.com/ windsor2024
WHEN? 25-28 September 2024
WHERE? Dusseldorf, Germany www.rehacare.com
WHEN? 14 July 2024
WHERE? Warrington, Cheshire www.disabilityawareness day.org.uk
Laura Hays Director of Thistle Help thistlehelp. co.uk
Wondering which mobility accessories and power addons are grabbing mobility companies’ attention? This month we asked retailers in the industry to highlight one product that is standing out for them…
“Living in Scotland and having retail showrooms in Ayrshire, we are used to the ever changing weather, which is mainly rain, a little sunshine, and then more rain.
“Our customers still want to get out and about in their mobility scooters but don’t want to get wet. The universal Scooter Canopy from Scooterpac is just the answer to keep users dry when the weather decides to take a turn.
“Designed with compatibility and ease of use in mind, the Scooterpac Canopy provides a fast, effective, and safe solution to all-weather mobility, protecting the user from water, dirt, and dust. With its universal design, it is compatible with virtually any mobility scooter on the market, enabling the user
“The Splash Scooter Control Panel cover from Able2 is a must-have accessory for mobility scooter owners. It is made from lightweight waterproof fabric with elastic edges and velcro fastening, it ensures a secure fit around the handles, protecting the tiller head from rainwater ingress that can damage the internal circuit boards.
“Available in two sizes, small for portable scooters and medium-large for larger scooters, it caters to a wide range of users. Offering this cover as a complimentary gift with the sale of a scooter is a low-cost option for a giveaway and makes the customer feel valued. We highly recommend every scooter owner to equip their scooter with this essential accessory. Despite its low cost, it serves as an invaluable protective measure, preventing potential costly repairs down the line.”
to confront the elements without fear no matter their scooter brand. It comes in two sizes: standard and extra large.
“For a mobility scooter rain cover made with hard-wearing, durable, flexible, and weather-resistant materials, the Scooterpac Canopy is the perfect choice to provide the ultimate layer of protection in even some of the harshest weather conditions. The frame is made from powder-coated aluminium and the window is made from clear perspex material. The canopy and cover material is made from a waterproof nylon.
“This is proving very popular with our customers and is a great feature in our showrooms. It is also reasonably priced, which is a great attraction to customers.”
Karen Sheppard Director of People
Recliners’ Express Domestic, despatched in just 24 hours*.
Perfectly suited when urgency is top priority without sacrificing comfort.
“A highly-regarded, clinically and commercially-acclaimed product when it comes to powered add-ons, especially in the area of pressure care, is the Alerta Mobile pressurerelieving cushion system.
“This alternating pressure cushion system is not just clinically valueadding but is portable, compact and user-friendly not least comfortable, providing excellent pressure management, support and relief. The product is brought to market by a team of industry professionals who are passionate about mobility and clinical innovations and execute their customer service and support with excellence.
“It is an extremely versatile product that can be used in various environments, including domestic homes, hospitals, nursing, and care homes. Due to its compactness and transportability, it is a responsive piece of equipment that provides excellent relief for pressure ulcers and serves well as an effective preventative solution.
"The product is powered by a lithium-ion battery that has a high use yield of 24 hours and can be adapted to suit the level of pressure care required, from low to high. This product is not only versatile but also cost-effective and should sit within most people’s budgets. This product comes highly recommended due to its compliance with strict quality and user guidelines.”
Billy Finnie Operations Manager at Mobility Scotland
“One of the most popular add-on accessories that we sell with many of our mobility scooters, with benefits to both the user and the retailer, is the hi-vis Splash Crutch/Walking Stick Bag from Able2. It gives the user some additional storage space for their daily essentials, and it is bright, to increase their visibility to other road users.
“Additionally, of course, it carries our name and telephone number to tell others where to come should they like one of their own. It also serves as a reminder to the owner of who they should call for any further service or repair needs.
"The bags are equipped with easygrip zip fobs, and the heavy duty material will protect contents from any short showers should the user find themselves caught out when on the go. The reflective strip marries well with the hi-vis fabric, to further increase the
user's visibility from behind on darker days and at night.
"Easy to fit, the bag slides neatly over the back of a wheelchair or scooter with adjustable straps to securely hold it in place.
“As it is such a good-quality item we find it is valued more if it is sold as an accessory rather than given away as a free gift. It should not be seen as an inducement to close the deal on the scooter but more of a personalisation of that scooter after the sale is complete.”
Gibbs Managing Director
Rhian Pita Marketing Manager at Ableworld ableworld.co.uk
“As the month of May arrives, we are thrilled to recommend the Deluxe Powerstroll Powerpack from Drive, a product that can transform most standard wheelchairs. It is a great accessory that easily turns manual wheelchairs into a powerchair, giving users a simple and more efficient ride, an innovative solution for improving manual wheelchairs.
“The Deluxe Powerstroll Powerpack is known for its exceptional features and performance. The Powerpack’s strong motor ensures steady support, allowing users to glide across any terrain with ease and confidence.
“Choosing the Powerpack for this month’s feature was an easy decision, thanks to Drive’s reputation for quality and innovation in products. The Powerpack’s rechargeable battery provides continuing power, ensuring users can go the extra mile without any interruptions. The Powerpack can also be easily fitted and removed within a matter of seconds and is very portable, making it ideal for transportation.
“This May, help your customers enjoy the freedom to explore and make the most of life with this reliable and user-friendly mobility enhancer.”
“One of our favourite mobility accessories is the Harley Back Support cushion which has been specifically designed to be used either in a wheelchair or on a standard chair.
“It is popular with our customers due to the level of support it provides, ideal for those who struggle with their seated balance or back pain.
“The Harley Back Support from Spinal Products is available in two models. One is the standard version which is ergonomically moulded from cold cast polyurethane foam.
"The other cushion is the designer
model which is moulded from visco elastic memory foam, providing a slightly softer back support with more give.
“The Back Support cushion has been designed with shaped sides to ensure a gentle lateral support.
“Complete with a fixing strap to keep the back support cushion in place and sized at 40cm x 38cm it offers an ideal solution for those who need to stay seated for long periods of time.
“Manufactured in Blackburn, part of Able2, the quality is always consistent and we receive very few, if any, returns on this item.”
The i-Drive is designed with the intent to provide mobility to those who need it most. Utilizing Stealth’s tried and true head positioning systems and revolutionary technology developed by Trident Research, the i-Drive provides great support to the head with the most diverse programmable head array ever.
Integrated circuit and digital signal processing has advanced significantly since the invention of the modern microprocessor. Today’s smart phones and tablet devices are driving the state of technology in this area, making it affordable to apply sophisticated Technologies to the mobility industry. The technology in the i-Drive product line makes use of these technologies by combining reliable integrated circuits with modern electronics board design and signal processing.
stealthproducts.com/splash/idrive/
The
patterns
The
best and most profitable businesses know about buying patterns
and work hard to keep that habit
going,
If it’s free I always use the same locker at the gym. When I’m working, I like to have a cup of tea at 10.30am and 3pm. When I go shopping, I always seem to end up parking in the same area of the car park, most of the time in the same space!
Does this all sound familiar? Like many of the population I have developed habits that can be difficult to change. Getting your customers to form a habit of buying from you is one of the most effective ways of building a sustainable business.
Let’s focus on your buying habits
as David Russell explains…
for a moment. How many businesses do you buy from frequently without considering trying someone else? It could be a coffee when you are out and about, the same supermarket week in and week out or even the car dealership you’ve been spending money with for years.
RECOGNISE BUYING PATTERNS
Now here’s an interesting questionhow many customers do you have who wouldn’t ever entertain going anywhere else? I’m talking about super-loyal customers who have been with you for
“Most small businesses have no idea how many customers have stopped buying from them but are still in the market for their products.”
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• Would you know if one of your regular customers stopped buying from you?
• How many ‘regular’ customers have you lost in the last three months?
• What processes do you have to ensure that repeat customers continue to buy?
a year, two or five years or longer.
The answer to that question will tell you just how strong your business really is. I’m guessing that many of you won’t know the answer.
Most businesses don’t know. They take those incredibly important and profitable customers for granted – and that’s very dangerous.
Yes, you probably have plenty of customer names on your database but are you sure they are still your customers, or have they stopped buying from you and moved on to a new supplier?
Most small businesses have no idea how many customers have stopped buying from them but are still in the market for their products.
The best and most profitable businesses know about buying patterns and work hard to keep that habit going. They notice when a customer stops buying and they do something about it – a call, a reminder, an offer, a thank you.
They know that if the buying habit
is broken it can be very hard to get a customer to start buying again.
A Sales Director of a large exhibition organiser explained to me just how important it was to keep companies on the floorplan of an annual exhibition.
The company worked hard, very hard indeed, to keep their clients with them for the next event. I’ve often been in the sales office at a show a couple of hours before a new event opened when the sales team was already being sent out onto the show floor to sign up the companies for the following year.
If you’ve ever exhibited at a large event, you may be asked to re-book for the following year as soon as the show opens. The best and most profitable exhibition organisers put in a lot of effort to get the existing exhibitors to commit to the next event.
Why? Because the exhibition organisers know that if a business decides to ‘leave it next year’ it could
be difficult to persuade them to book again for the year after. Once a business has been away from an exhibition for a couple of years, not going becomes a habit and that’s quite hard to turn around. Basically, you’re back to square one and all the loyalty you’ve managed to build disappears into dust.
In the same way, as soon as your customer decides to go somewhere else or just ‘leave it this time’ or ‘go from each month to every other month to see how that goes,’ you’re in trouble. You may have just lost a customer who provides easy sales and profit margins – for good!
Of course, the boot can be on the other foot. You may be making decisions for your business and buying products and services based on habit. Reviewing some of those decisions might be worthwhile if that’s the case.
Extracted from ‘58½ ridiculously simple marketing gems I wish I’d known years ago’ by David Russell, marketing specialist and founder of THIIS Magazine. Available to buy at Amazon (bit.ly/44gb55Z) in Kindle edition for £5.54 or in paperback for £9.99.
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For
E:
Verlingue
Nathan Crooke and Kevin Dalley, the new directors of Liftability, a provider of stairlifts and mobility solutions in the south of England, discuss their vision for the firm going forward…
Southampton-based Liftability has been supplying and installing stairlifts, steplifts and vertical lifts to private users, social services, local authorities and housing associations across the south of England since 1986. The business also specialises in hoists, smart door entry systems, and automatic door openers to help customers access their homes more easily.
In January 2024, Martin Murley retired as the Director of Liftability after nearly 37 years, leaving the company in the hands of Kevin Dalley, Managing Director, and Nathan Crooke, Director of Engineering. The two have ambitious plans to modernise the showroom and
its product offerings, while ensuring the firm’s commitment to customer service remains as high as it always did.
Formed in 1986 by Reg Crook, Dick Robinson and Martin Murley, Liftability began by offering both new and second-hand stairlifts to local authorities and the private market.
In the mid-Nineties Dick and Reg retired and Martin was joined by Andy Fenwick, and together they ran the
business together until 2014 when Andy retired and Martin took full ownership of the company.
In 2015 Kevin Dalley was promoted to Director and become a shareholder with Liftability very soon after. Kevin had joined the company in 2000 as an engineer and had moved up through the ranks to Senior Engineer, progressing into sales and then to Sales Director.
“It has always been about how we can help customers meet their needs without any pressure selling”
Nathan Crooke, meanwhile, joined the company as an engineer in 2009 before progressing to Senior Engineer and then Director in December 2023.
According to Nathan, the sales and service approach by Liftability’s staff has always been based on how they or their parents would want to be treated. “It has never been about the hard sell for maximum profit,” explains Nathan. “It has always been about how we can help customers meet their needs without any pressure selling.”
The key to Liftability’s longevity is down to its good stable background with long-serving staff, explains Kevin, which ensures a good quality of service.
Some have 10 years experience, and a few have over 20 years experience in the sector.
Kevin comments: “First name terms are commonplace with a lot of our customers and suppliers who often request certain engineers as they have built a good relationship over the years.
“We have also built good solid working relationships with local authority specifiers, many of whom we have worked with for many years.”
Kevin explains that he is proud, as a director and major shareholder in the business, to be helping customers live more independently and, in some cases, “allowing them to see the
upstairs of their homes for the first time in years”.
Working with Nathan and Kevin is Tony Steels, a Northamptonshire-based senior engineer and surveyor who has been working with Liftability for 23 years. Katie Kemp joined as an office junior 14 years ago and is now Office Manager, managing the administration side of things and CRM.
Martin Murley, who recently retired in January 2024, is also on hand to help where needed after owning the business for 36 years.
Liftability’s showroom is based in Hamble, on the outskirts of Southampton. The showroom boasts a diverse range of operational stairlifts, encompassing various configurations, with easy accessibility.
It is also connected to Liftability’s training room, where comprehensive product awareness sessions are conducted for various professional groups, either on a one-to-one basis or in groups.
Nathan explains: “Our next step is to update it with the latest models and integrating a comfortable seating area, ensuring that our customers can enjoy a relaxing and homely environment during their visits.”
Nathan says that the business can investigate any requests for product
placement in its training room or showroom.
The business’ reach is far and wide, covering the south, south-east and Midlands primarily, but it is also able to provide assistance to customers through its network of partners throughout the country.
When it comes to the sale of second-hand stairlifts Liftability will only provide a product to which it has previously supplied and knows its history.
Explains Nathan: “All secondhand products are reconditioned in our workshops and supplied with new batteries. In addition to this, all products are supplied with a one-year
“We have built good solid working relationships with local authority specifiers, many of whom we have worked with for many years”
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warranty backed with 24/7 onsite cover with the option to extend to multiple years.”
Where products sold need to be repaired Liftability offers a 24/7 callout and breakdown cover service on products it has installed or which are under contract with them. Its vans are extensively stocked for multiple manufacturers’ products, so they will always try to fix the lift on their first visit.
Liftability’s engineers, Nathan says, are all manufacturer-trained and certificated on the products that it supplies.
Purchasing a stairlift, whether second-hand or new, can be a bit of a minefield for customers who want to buy from a company they can trust. Nathan explains: “An initial site survey is essential to ensure that the client gets the right product to match their needs.”
The stairlift market in the UK has been experiencing steady growth due to several factors, which is great news for a business like Liftability.
Nathan puts this down to an ageing population in the UK, which has led to an increased demand for mobility aids like stairlifts, as older individuals seek to maintain independence and stay in their own homes for longer.
Additionally, he says, advancements in technology have led to more innovative and user-friendly stairlift designs, making them more appealing to a broader range of consumers.
Further to these factors is a growing awareness amongst the public about accessibility issues. Nathan explains: “There is a greater emphasis on making public and private spaces more accommodating for individuals with mobility challenges. This has contributed to an increased adoption of stairlifts in various settings, including residential homes, public buildings, and workplaces.”
Another trend in the stairlift market
“An initial site survey is essential to ensure that the client gets the right product to match their needs”
is the emphasis on customisation and personalisation, says Nathan.
“Manufacturers are offering a wide range of options to cater to individual needs and preferences, such as different chair styles, upholstery choices, and additional features like swivel seats and remote controls.”
He adds: “Overall, the stairlift market
in the UK is expected to continue growing as the population ages and awareness about accessibility increases, with ongoing innovation driving further expansion and diversification within the industry.”
Nathan and Kevin are looking to introduce new makes and models to cater to a wider range of mobility needs. Nathan comments: “We are always looking to add to our portfolio of products and are keen to develop into other areas of patient care, but will only do so with a quality product, and without compromising our existing customer base and provided we have the correct staff in place.”
The business already enjoys key partnerships with Platinum Stairlifts, Stannah and Access BDD for stairlifts. These suppliers, explains Nathan, offer the best quality of product and backup with quality technical support that helps them to meet their customers needs.
For homelifts, Liftability has partnered with Wessex Lifts for over 30 years for what it sees as having “unrivalled quality of product” in the sector.
Nathan says: “Reliability and engineer training are paramount when Liftability chooses a supplier, and these are often not the cheapest on the market.”
Looking more widely at the access sector, Nathan highlights the escalating prices of materials and resources globally as being a current challenge
for firms such as Liftability. “As a stairlift company, we strive to maintain affordability for our customers amidst these rising costs,” says Nathan.
“However, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep our prices down for the end user.
“While navigating these challenges, our focus remains on delivering quality products and services while mitigating the impact of rising prices on our customers directly.”
Of the newer products to come onto the market Nathan is particularly impressed with the Platinum Ultimate stairlift. He continues: “Its first-step start function and upper weight limit of 25 stone negates the need of a powered hinge at the bottom of the stairs and is by far one of the best innovations recently.
“The Access FlowX continues to be the market leader in adaptability to be
“Reliability and engineer training are paramount when Liftability chooses a supplier”
configured to the end user’s best needs with probably the best aesthetics.”
An up-to-date website is “very important” to Liftabiility, especially in today’s climate, with end-users spending a lot of time researching the products they think will best suit there needs.
The firm is not about to go down the road of ecommerce however, explains Nathan. “There is no place for e-commerce in our sector of the market. It is paramount that all the types of products Liftability supply are professionally installed, and failure to do so has the potential to invite a serious accident.”
As new owners, Kevin and Nathan have already implemented a fresh website, and updated the firm’s signage. Their next step is to revamp the showroom.
As for the long term Nathan says the plan is for the business to simply do what it does best: “To continue the growth of Liftability through contracts and the private sector in a sustained and manageable pace.”
www.liftabilityltd.com
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THIIS chats to Mark Hermolle, Managing Director of Kymco UK, about how the firm’s collaborative approach to developing products has helped it to stay ahead of the game…
Taiwanese motorcycle manufacturer Kymco has been supplying mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs for over 20 years. The firm has grown a lot since then, establishing its UK division and growing its range of mobility scooters, all while taking pride in designing products with customer-centric features and excellent service...
CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR STORY WITH KYMCO AND HOW THE FIRM CAME TO BE ESTABLISHED IN THE UK?
“My story with Kymco first began when I joined Days Mobility Aids, later known as Days Healthcare. I joined as their head of mobility but one month
after joining Days, the whole legal process started over the Shoprider exclusive agency. Days needed a new range of scooters and Kymco Taiwan were targeted as a top-quality, mass producer of high-quality vehicles.
“Kymco were already known to have been in close cooperation with some very large, high-end companies such as Honda, BMW and Kawasaki. An
“Our success is mainly down to us offering high quality products, superior designs, and an unrivalled customer service”
agreement was signed, and I started the design process with the Kymco R&D team. The brand-new Strider range of mobility scooters were launched in 2001/2002, and Kymco quickly became recognised as a highquality, premium player in the sector.
“In 2007 I left Days Healthcare to pursue other interests, but during that transition I was approached by Kymco’s CEO, Mr C P Ko, who asked me if I would consider joining Kymco and set up their first wholly owned mobility subsidiary, Kymco Healthcare UK. Needless to say I was delighted at the opportunity and the challenge, particularly as I had worked so closely with the team at Kymco Taiwan and had a very strong belief in their ethics, quality, product development and design capabilities. Kymco UK was formed in 2008.
“I could also see a lot of synergy at Kymco regarding their route to market, their strong values for dealerships and a true partnership approach. Kymco showed a strong collaborative approach to the development of its products and to its customer base, not just the buyer/ supplier relationships I had seen at other businesses in the industry.
KYMCO UK HAS BEEN GOING FOR OVER 15 YEARS NOW. WHAT DO YOU THINK IS KEY TO ITS SUCCESS OVER YEARS?
“Kymco is now celebrating its 60th year of successful business and Kymco UK has celebrated 15 years. We believe our success is mainly down to us offering high-quality products, superior designs, our strong professional dealer network and an unrivalled customer service and after-sales service, providing first-class spare parts support.”
WHAT ARE THE LATEST PRODUCTS TO BE RELEASED FROM KYMCO RECENTLY, AND WHAT KIND OF RESPONSE HAVE YOU HAD TO THESE FROM DEALERS?
“In 2021 we launched a fantastic range of folding scooters, K-lite folding (F and FE). They have some amazing unique features, which have been very well received by our dealers.
“These folding models have been a real success, even though it was launched during a very difficult time. These folding scooters are selling very
well and are proving to be a top seller.
“Our premium Midi to Maxi type scooters have dominated the market for years and have been a main product on the UK Motability scheme. We take great pride in always designing customer-centric features that offer users benefits that take their needs and everyday life into account during the design process.”
HOW ARE KYMCO UK PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTED IN THE UK?
“All of our products are sold through our dealer network who assess the needs of end users to ensure the correct mobility solution is always provided to the customer. Unlike some organisations in the industry, we believe this to be the credible and safest route to market for our vulnerable customers.
“Kymco strives to continue to develop and supply the very best products for its customers. The mobility scooter business is a key part of Kymco’s focus and remains a huge part of the UK operation!”
IS KYMCO LOOKING TO EXPAND ITS UK PARTNER NETWORK?
“We are always looking for good credible dealers to help us to offer the very best national coverage.
“We pride ourselves in having an excellent network of highly skilled and professional dealers, and we are very happy with them and this route to market.
“However, there is always room to grow in areas where there is less Kymco dealer coverage, so we always
welcome any new top-quality dealers and always give them full consideration to any open points we may have.
“We would invite any high-quality dealers to please contact us if interested. Contact our National Sales Manager Neil Keeble, in the first instance, with your interest. Neil can be contacted via email on nkeeble@kymcouk.co.uk or via telephone on 07718 479613.”
“Lithium batteries are extremely difficult to transport now due to the fact that they are deemed to be “hazardous cargo””
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Contact the Alerta Medical team for attractive trade prices, technical information and marketing support.
WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE MAIN CHALLENGE FOR SUPPLIERS IN THE INDUSTRY WITH REGARDS THE USE OF LITHIUM BATTERIES IN THEIR PRODUCTS?
“Lithium batteries, all-be-them very lightweight, and customers do love them, are extremely difficult to transport now due to the fact that they are deemed to be “hazardous cargo”. The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) informed members about this, and we at Kymco took this 100 per cent onboard and employed a specialist company, at extra expense, to deal with lithium battery transportation and collection.
“We decided that we must adhere to these safety rules, but many dealers are complaining about the extra delivery costs that we had to add and state
that other companies are in breach of this important set of rules. They keep asking why it is that only Kymco are complying to this regulation.
“We asked the BHTA to intervene here in a more meaningful way at the last section meeting.”
WHAT’S NEXT FOR KYMCO UK IN THE COMING MONTHS?
“We are always developing our portfolio of products to support our dealers and will be attending events to promote these launches in the future.
“We recently carried out a series of Technical Service Training events at our head office in Bridgend, which were amazingly well received. We will continue to support our dealers with this.
“Neil Keeble is currently working on an exciting new floor stocking plan with
“We recently carried out a series of Technical Service Training events at our head office in Bridgend”
a well-known finance provider, which should help our dealers to stock our full range of mobility products, thus supporting end users to experience all of Kymco’s range.
“Check out Kymco’s social media channels for any product news, developments and future dealer training.”
www.kymco.co.uk/mobility-range
KYMCO HAS OVER 20 YEARS OF STRONG PERFORMANCE WITH VALUED MOBILITY DEALERS AND WOULD LIKE TO THANK THEM FOR THEIR CONTINUED PARTNERSHIPS.
Neil Gregory : 07816 200649
E-mail : ngregory@kymcouk.co.uk
SOUTH WEST/WALES AND BORDERS
Mike Ridley : 07515 282647
E-mail : mridley@kymcouk.co.uk
Mark Turner : 07803 000017
E-mail : mturner@kymcouk.co.uk
To ensure that a wheelchair cushion stays in place in the chair during use, manufacturers provide attachments to prevent the cushion slipping off the wheelchair canvas or seat base…
In order that, when in use, a wheelchair cushion does not slip off the wheelchair canvas or seat base, manufacturers provide hook and loop attachments sewn under the cushion cover and attached to the wheelchair seat base. However, there is no consistency as to where either the hook or the loop are placed, and so no guarantee that they will interact with each other and actually prevent the cushion from slipping. This has now been addressed in the new international standard ISO/TS 16840-15:20241.
There is little standardisation around fastenings in wheelchair seating, and thus it’s simply potluck as to whether the nuts, bolts, etc. in one’s toolkit will be compatible with the system one’s trying to work on!
Some years ago, an idea was floated to create a standard to provide
‘Let’s
Further items can be found at www. beshealthcare.net
Dr ter Haar has been involved in seating and mobility for over 30 years, including lecturing internationally, and developing international seating standards.
guidance for manufacturers as to what to aim for when prescribing screws, nuts, bolts, washers, rivets, grommets, axle shaft dimensions etc.
A start at least would be if all manufacturers globally used metric fastenings! This ideal has not gained much traction, as yet, since each designer working in isolation tends to select the best tool from what is at hand at that moment, to achieve their immediate end. The resultant solution worked in that situation – but the potential impact on inventories around the world when that design goes into production, and indeed potential customer confusion, is significant.
Fastening the hook or loop to a cushion cover lower surface is probably most effective by sewing it onto the item – if possible. If an adhesive is used, either on a cushion cover or seat base, the adhesive has to be stronger than the sliding or peeling forces described above. Whichever application method is selected, consideration needs to be made not only of the effects of shear forces, but also of temperature or moisture on the adequacy and longevity of the method.
and you’ll not be able to take –
and you’ll not be able to take –
One area of fastening which did make some progress was that of hook and loop fasteners. There are three aspects that need to be considered – first, the physical characteristics of the fasteners; second, the attachment method for the hooks and loops; and, third, where they are to be placed on both the item to be fastened, and on the item to which they are to be fastened.
There are published standards for measuring both how well the fasteners stand up to sliding (shear) forces on the one hand, and to the peelability or separability of the loop from the hook, or v.v., on the other. These parameters have practical implications in use: too sticky and you’ll not be able to take a cushion from its seat base, while not sticky enough and the cushion will slip out of position. There are no agreed ideal ranges of forces for either of these aspects as yet.
If you inspect the underside of the commercially available cushions in the wheelchair cushion marketplace you will find that almost every manufacturer has chosen a different solution. Some will have chosen 25mm wide strips, while others have chosen 38 or 50 mm wide strips, or even a combination of these. Some strips are lined up left to right across the cushion and some from front
to back. Some manufacturers have gone for squares instead of strips. Some are hook and some are loop. See Figure 1. Likewise, if you inspect the seating bases of different wheelchairs, you will also find the same variety of options of hook vs loop, of widths, and of direction of strips (see Figure 2). In some instances, even where the manufacturer has supplied both the chair and the cushion, the two are still not compatible with each other!
This is all crying out for standardisation, and this is now at hand with the recommendations in Annex F of ISO/TS 16840-15:20241, which has just been published.
In research behind the recommendations in this standard, Kim Chaney, an OT/ergonomist with many years’ experience in the prescription and provision of wheelchair seating, carried out a study into how a wheelchair occupant with limited hand function removed and replaced their cushion, to give guidance as to where the hook and loop would be a help and where it would be a hindrance. (see below)
The conclusion was that hook and loop at the front of the cushion and seat base aided, while at the rear of a cushion or seat base impeded, onehanded removal or insertion of the cushion.
• The Loop (rather than Hook, so that when the cover is in the wash, it does not catch on other items) to be attached to the base of the cushion cover running left to right.
• The Loop to be placed the full width of the cushion and near the front.
• The Hook be applied to the wheelchair seat base running back to front, so that it will always be at right angles to the loop.
• The Hook to be placed near the front
of the base so that it will always be engaged with the Loop at the front of the cushion.
• Where fitted to a width adjustable seat base, the Hook should be fitted in the narrowest configuration.
• 50mm width Hook and Loop are recommended. For chairs less than 340mm wide, 25mm Hook and Loop can be used.
*Excluding battery, armrest and seat cover.
The City is the entry level model in the Power Assisted Wheelchair Systems (PAWS) range from Rehasense UK. Available with a 12” or 14” wheel, the City has been designed mainly for use around town with the 12” wheel ideal for smooth tarmac roads while the larger 14” wheel can handle slightly more uneven surfaces.
The City can also be used indoors thanks to its turning circle of just one metre. Standard features on every model include: forward/reverse mode, traction control for when setting off on a slippery surface or slope, cruise control to remove the need to permanently hold the throttle and walk mode. PAWS requires no frame alteration or additional add-ons to the wheelchair.
www.rehasense.co.uk
SMOOV One is a power drive that easily attaches to most makes of manual wheelchair to give additional power when it’s needed.
It has a top speed of 6mph and offers convenient hands-free, dynamic driving with its flexible 360° drive wheel. It can travel up to 20km distance maintaining a constant speed operated by a Bluetooth hand control dial that neatly attaches to the chair.
It weighs 7.2kg and features a USB-C socket for charging purposes. SMOOV will travel over most types of surfaces even maintaining a constant speed up slopes of 16 per cent gradient.
With its integrated carry handle, SMOOV One is easy to dock or undock onto most brands of manual wheelchair, either fixed or folding frame.
www.invacare.co.uk
Investing in a scooter mobile charger allows the user to be out without stressing over the amount of juice left in their phone battery. The XLR USB charger for mobility scooters enables users to stay connected while on the go.
The charger plugs into the charging ports of Pride scooters and power chairs and comes with a lanyard that makes it easy and convenient to carry with them. As soon as it is plugged into the mobile device, the charger immediately starts working.
Because of its charging detection feature, it switches off automatically once it is finished charging, wasting no energy. This scooter mobile charger is compatible with most iPhone, Android and mobile devices.
quantumrehab.co.uk
The Tourer is the top-of-the-range model in the PAWS range available from Rehasense UK and can take the wheelchair users across terrain that would normally be inaccessible. With a 20” wheel, 4” fat tyres and a longer wheelbase for increased clearance and manoeuvrability, the Tourer is equally at home on tarmac or in a true off-road environment where it can easily overcome sand, gravel and obstacles such as tree roots and very uneven ground, which would be impassable in a wheelchair. It is available with a manual or automatic clamp and lift system and Tetra controls for users with reduced upper body strength.
www.rehasense.co.uk
The new generation Smartdrive wheelchair power assist device comes with a choice of controllers to match the user’s individual requirements. It empowers the user’s active lifestyle and supplements the energy that they would normally have to use.
This lightweight power assist for manual wheelchairs helps users to go up hills and ramps and cover extended distances without having to push. It offers a range of controls including SwitchControl, SwitchControl Dial or via the Mx+2 app on the user’s Apple watch and integrated activity tracking technology to deliver a seamless power assist experience that may reduce repetitive stress.
www.johnpreston.co.uk
Firefly 2.5 wheelchair handbike is the latest generation of John Preston’s wheelchair electric power add-ons. Fitting the Firefly is quick and easy, and once attached it can be adjusted to suit a variety of users including both children and adults.
The Firefly can attach to almost all wheelchairs including folding models. With an airline-friendly lithium battery, it can handle footpaths and gravel with ease meaning it’s the ultimate travel companion.
www.johnpreston.co.uk
This lightweight Powerstroll takes the strain out of pushing a heavy wheelchair and makes easy work of hills, ramps and gradients.
Dual wheel, the Powerstroll can be easily fitted and removed within seconds and adapts to fit many wheelchair sizes from 14” to 20”. It allows speed of up to 3mph and offers a maximum range of 10 miles.
Lightweight at 14kg, and less than 8kg with battery pack removed, it is easy to transport too, coming with an easy-to-use lift up strap to increase manoeuvrability.
Features include a trigger handset with variable speed dial and forward/reverse button to suit the attendant and user requirements. Its weight capacity is 115kg.
drivedevilbiss.co.uk
The Breeze S4 offers advanced comfort, performance and looks with the solid canopy option designed to help keep out the elements. All-round, active, adjustable suspension and a powerful motor ensures kerbs and rough ground are simply a breeze. Ample storage is provided by secure, lockable and waterproof compartments at both the front and rear.
The user will find easy-to-use controls at their fingertips with in-built safety systems creating confidence in any situation. The Solid Canopy has a strong tubular framework which fixes directly onto the chassis with a Perspex screen and roof to keep the user covered in all weathers – detachable clear vinyl sides make the Breeze S usable all year round.
www.tgamobility.co.uk
We believe that it’s always good to have a little extra power just when customers need it most. Alber® power add-ons are designed for most brands of manual wheelchairs including Küschall®, our Action® range, and even our Rea® tilt in space range, providing power assistance to suit different needs.
They provide an instant boost of power, designed for individual use or for carers and family members to use when manoeuvring a wheelchair with a loved one.
When it comes to conserving energy, our world-class Paralympians make the smart choice with a SMOOV one.
As they head towards the Paralympics later this year, both Hannah Cockroft OBE and Nathan Maguire understand the need to conserve vital energy for the all-important on track events.
The couple recently commented: “Our new SMOOVs have given us the freedom to get to so many places that would have been out of reach to us.
Whether its walking the dog through the park, over cobbles in the city
centre or just popping to the local shop SMOOV has made our lives easier.”
The addition of a SMOOV one will allow them to maintain a constant speed and provide an extra boost of power, especially in negotiating varying terrain when out and about.
Our comprehensive Alber range includes a number of different styles of power add-ons such as the new viaGO power assist which simply attaches to the back of a manual chair and offers a simple icon-based control, the e-pilot electric hand bike attaches to the front of a chair, there are push aids and braking aids like the viaPLUS ideally suited for family members and carers, or for the individual there is our highly popular power wheels; Duo Drive and
emotion, which make it easier to push and manoeuvre a wheelchair.
Alternatively, your customers can transform their existing manual chair with the efix system. A powerpack, control unit and wheels can be added offering customers the flexibility of power using their existing chair.
For more details on the Alber range visit www.invacare.co.uk
Specifically crafted for caregivers who find pushing a manual wheelchair physically demanding, Viago is ideal for navigating daily outings to the shops, park, or other locations.
With a range of up to 10 miles (terrain dependent), ViaGO has the capability to conquer slopes with a 16 per cent gradient at a maximum speed of 3.4 mph.
Installing ViaGo is straightforward, and it fits most wheelchairs on the market, including Invacare’s range of Action manual wheelchairs, and is now available on its range of Rea tilt-in-space chairs (bracket included with unit).
www.invacare.co.uk
The Triride Special Compact is the benchmark of the Triride range: compact in size but with incredible torque due to it high torque motor for tackling the most demanding of terrains. Combined with the all-road tyre option the user can truly have an ’allroad’ add-on device. With a transport weight of 11kg it is manageable too. The user has the option to configure controls to suit their functional requirements with many options using regular controls along with choices further choices with our tetra/limited hand function control solutions.
www.triride.uk
This small mobility bag is a compact holdall with a carry handle.
It is ideal for transporting and storing personal items and is made from a lightweight, durable material. The bag has an easily accessed zippered compartment with front and back mesh pockets.
Made from lightweight, durable material it has quick release straps for easy installation.
drivedevilbiss.co.uk
The Powerpack attaches to almost any wheelchair in seconds, turning it into a powered chair to help the pusher push. Once fitted the pusher can simply stroll behind with their thumb on the control, letting the Powerpack do all the hard work for them.
Light enough to take anywhere, in the car boot, train or plane, it gives the user that extra mobility to go where they want to go. There is no more struggling up hills, ramps or over uneven ground as the Powerpack does the pushing for the user, comfortably and reliably for up to 10 miles at a time.
www.tgamobility.co.uk
The Loopwheels wheelchair wheels adds suspension to a manual wheelchair. It is ideally paired with a front power attachment.
In-wheel suspension means that whether riding on tracks, trails, paths, roads or pavements, the end user is protected from bumps, shocks and tiring vibration. Customers have reported feeling more comfortable, so they can enjoy going out more often, whatever the road presents.
Loopwheels come in 24” (540) and 25” (559) diameter or, with the Loopwheels Extreme, a 507 wheel fitted with a choice of MTB tyre for offroad use too.
The “Try Before You Buy” scheme offers a two-week UK trial for £35 p&p, and it is available to the trade too (for £20) for their own customer trials.
www.loopwheels.com
This backup camera, with a rear viewing angle of 170 degrees, has many uses and is one of the most popular Quantum wheelchair accessories available.
The Triride Light model with 10” wheel is the smallest wheel size in the Triride range. It is perfect for the use in a confined space but powerful enough to handle everyday usage and tackle those more challenging inclines.
The Light 10” is also available with a choice of batteries so the user can extend the range for up to six miles, and with a 7.8kg transport weight it makes for easy independent loading and unloading in the vehicle and compact and lightweight touring companion.
www.triride.uk
When driving a power wheelchair out in public, a user may find it difficult to see when reversing in a car park or garage, especially if they are unable to turn their head or neck. The backup camera helps the user to see cars, pedestrians, cyclists, or other obstacles. When at home, there are all kinds of things that can get in your way. Door frames, furniture, pets, and children are visible to the user with the Quantum camera. The 3.5" LCD display, equipped with a protective case, can be mounted off powerchair’s armrest or side rails, so it’s visible to the user when they are driving.
quantumrehab.co.uk
Weights only 14.7kg
• 6Ah Li: (Optional)
• 10Ah Li: (Standard)
• 20Ah Li: (Optional)
Easy to fold and transport
Available with optional armrests
Comes in black or grey
The GoGo Mg 2 comes with lithium batteries providing up to 10 x longer life than that of lead – acid batteries. As well as a battery health of at least 80% even after 1200 cycles. Lithium batteries also increases traveling distance up to 31%.
www.pride-mobility.co.uk
The mid-range Cruiser from the Power Assisted Wheelchair Systems (PAWS) range from Rehasense UK has been designed for wheelchair users looking for a power add-on to enable them to venture off standard road surfaces and onto more uneven terrain such as a forest trail.
With a larger 16” wheel the Cruiser offers a smooth comfortable ride and comes with a comprehensive range of standard features including traction and cruise control. All three PAWS models are available with either a manual or automatic clamp and lift system, Tetra controls for people with
The mobile phone holder enables the user to have their hands free without needing to worry about misplacing or dropping their phone.
The RAM X-Grip electric scooter phone holder is a universal phone holder that easily attaches to your scooter. Its rubber-coated tips hold the smartphone firmly in place.
Sleek and modern, this electric scooter phone holder is compatible with most mobiles. The scooter phone mount has a minimum width of 47-82mm and a minimum height of 57-108mm.
pride-mobility.co.uk
reduced upper body strength, have a range of up to 25 miles and charge from empty in five hours.
www.rehasense.co.uk
A new introduction for 2024 is the option to choose a new custom display for the Triride device. This display enables the user to personalise their driving parameters (up to dealer set limits) in each power assist mode 1-5. This keeps the end user in control of their drive experience but also allows the specialist dealer to make quick any easy adjustment so the user can get the most from their product. A separate dealer programming area within the display allows the dealer regulate the limits of which the client can adjust to, all within its factory preset limits. It is quick and easy to adjust on the go.
www.triride.uk
The Snug Canopy is designed to keep out the elements whilst giving the user the freedom to venture further without the worry of the wind or rain. Simple, versatile and incredibly easy to install, it converts to almost any scooter into transport for all seasons. The retractable hood provides protection from the sun, rain, wind or cold, giving the user the ability to adapt and keep moving in all seasons.
www.tgamobility.co.uk
This underseat bag offers a secure but easily accessible storage space under the seat of most wheelchairs. It can be used to store coats, blankets, food, water, etc. and can be removed and used with the detachable shoulder strap for the user’s convenience. Features include integral polyester fleece overlay, adjustable straps and a generous underseat zippered compartment. The bag can also be removed and used with the shoulder strap. The fleece top wraps over wheelchair seat to provide extra comfort whilst sitting. Easily fitted and removed, the capacity of the underseat bag is 18 litres.
drivedevilbiss.co.uk
This spring, offer your customers the freedom to enjoy their garden with confidence and comfort with the HomeGlide Outdoor stairlift - the ideal solution for straight outdoor staircases around the home.
The Todo power add-on weighs a lightweight 5kg and enables the end user to transform their existing manual wheelchair into a portable powerchair. It has an easy mounting system which is composed of a motor, controller, main unit, and battery. Only a 5mm hex key is needed to install it and a lever action enables the user to switch from manual to power modes.
www.dashrehab.co.uk
The Excel Click & Go Lite wheelchair is an attendant-controlled powerpack that is easy to transport and quick to install on most foldable wheelchairs. Its two wheels give good contact with the ground, offering consistent levels of traction to assist with propelling.
Ideal for urban settings, shopping trips or appointments, the Click & Go Lite can be easily removed meaning there are no permanent adjustments to the wheelchair.
www.johnpreston.co.uk
l Nationwide delivery & installation
l Removal & disposal of old products
l Manufacturers warranties honoured
l Owned & operated fleet of vehicles
l Annual equipment servicing
l LOLER testing & inspection
l Bed inspections & servicing
l Engineer call-outs for repairs
l 35,000 Square foot warehouse
l Short term storage solutions
The updated Blazer has a number of user friendly upgrades and is now even narrower than before. It is still available with either a Sling or Captain seat and a variety of accessories.
Manual Recline
No Tilt-in-Space
Captain Sitting
Nominal Seat Width (inch): 18 / 20
Tilt-in-Space/ Standard Seat
Sling Sitting
Adjustable Seat Depth
Manual Stepless Recline
Nominal Seat Width (inch): 17 / 19 / 20
Blazer Sling Blazer Captain
Compact and flexible with full size comfort. Maximo and Maximo Plus, a full sized scooter offering more space, comfort and capability whilst still providing folding transportability.
A smooth drive and stability are provided by large pneumatic tyres, comfortable suspension, powerful motor and easy to use controls. With a simple one lever action, Maximo and Maximo Plus can be folded in seconds and ready for the car boot or easy storage.