Anyone make/import/sell Mobility Aids?

[H6CJF]

I am considering a complete change of direction for one of our High St shops. In a recent brainstorming excercise someone suggested mobility aids - Anything from scooters to bath lifts and long handled shoe horns! After considering our demographic (and existing customer base) I agreed to take it on a stage and do some research.

Now having got my fingers burnt once before by entering a market of which I knew very little, I want to get this right. So, as I never cease to be amazed at the breadth of experience on PH I thought I would at least ask whether anyone here has anything to offer by way of advice/connections in this area

thanks

Chris

Oh, by the way.... I dont want to see the word PASTY in any replies

Edited by H6CJF on Monday 1st February 16:28

[Simpo Two]

Can't help specifically, but as the population ages it's a growing market and if you can improve on the current extortionate prices being charged, you should do well.

[Lukey223]

My parents do exactly this in the Surrey area. I can't give you much advice myself as I don't get involved in the business but if you have any specific questions feel free to mail me and i'll get the answers for you.

Edited by Lukey223 on Monday 1st February 16:18

[Syd knee]

I have been doing this for the last 15 years, it is now a verry compettative market. Remmeber that it will always be only a small percentage of the poppulation that will need this stuff. NAIDEX at the NEC in May would be a good starting point. Most of the customers demand exceptional service but want to pay internet prices.

[Simpo Two]

Syd knee said:

Most of the customers demand exceptional service but want to pay internet prices.

Just like everybody else then really

Maybe approach some care/residential home chains as well? Plenty to keep you busy on the phone for a while, and no exhibition stand to pay for that may or may not break even. Also Social Sevices and County Councils, though increasingly they're farming it out to agencies.

Edited by Simpo Two on Monday 1st February 16:45

[H6CJF]

Syd knee said:

I have been doing this for the last 15 years, it is now a verry compettative market. Remmeber that it will always be only a small percentage of the poppulation that will need this stuff. NAIDEX at the NEC in May would be a good starting point. Most of the customers demand exceptional service but want to pay internet prices.

Simpo Two said:

Maybe approach some care/residential home chains as well? Plenty to keep you busy on the phone for a while, and no exhibition stand to pay for...

If I understood correctly Syd was suggesting the NEC as a source of suppliers.. definately a good starting point! Thanks

Thanks for the input so far chaps...

[skeggysteve]

I've seen quite a few people with no experience in this field start up and make a good go of it.
As you are already in retail I say do your research, offer a good service and you should be alright.

NAIDEX would be a good start:

http://www.naidex.co.uk/

For supplies of the smaller stuff have a look here:

https://www.homecraft-rolyan.com/app.aspx

http://www.nrs-uk.co.uk/

They are only two of many but the websites should give you an idea of what is available. Don't panic you don't have to stock all the products!

For scooters etc. just use google and find the websites for RMA, Pride, Electric Mobility, Sunrise, TGA, DMA to name a few.

For stairlifts we just take referrals for a local company.

Most care homes will buy direct but will use you in emergencies, Social Services and County Councils don't have any money and in my experience are hard work to deal with.

PM me if you want a chat, I'd be happy to help.

[H6CJF]

Thanks Steve - PM sent

[VEX]

Depending on where you are, I might be interested in helping you take this a stage further.

Through my home automation project I have access to a number of whole house systems that could be reapplied to those with disability and age related problems.

It is all about social inclusion and granting people a better quality of life and possible independence.

V.