Summary

A wheelchair is a medical device that allows people with limited or no ambulatory ability to move around independently. Wheelchairs are propelled manually or by automated systems, and they help people become more independent and mobile. Physical disabilities among children and adults are rapidly rising worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2018 around 15% of the world’s population is suffering from different forms of disability. Wheelchairs are used to transport people who are unable or unwilling to move due to an accident or other disorders such as Down syndrome. Mechanical chairs, as well as powered or electrical chairs, are two types of wheelchairs. They can be used both indoors and outdoors. New advancements and inventions, such as stair climbing wheelchairs, sporting recliners, and intelligent mobility scooters, are expected to propel the growth of the assistive devices industry in the coming years. The wheelchair's greatest dependable characteristics to consumers are being provided by on-going physiologic wheelchairs improvements as well as technology chair developments. Due to the addition of modern equipment such as ocular detector control mechanisms, operating control systems to AI automated processes or touch make contact trying to influence, and improvements in personalization such as introducing additional the most convenience besides shock absorption, additional support for body position regulation, and pressure pitcher scores, wheelchairs have become the preferred or practical choice for customers and patients. Improving patient reliance and security indicates a growing market need. Recent wheelchairs have features such as automated or moderately regulated movement, reduced dangerous manual restrictions, and assistant demands.

According to the research report, “Global Wheelchairs Market Overview, 2023-28”, the market is anticipated to reach USD 9 Billion by 2028 with a CAGR of 6.08% from USD 6.10 Billion in 2022. Wheelchair manufacturers are investing in research and development to develop advanced wheelchairs with features like lightweight materials, adjustable seating, and smart controls. There is also increasing demand for customizable wheelchairs that can be tailored to the specific needs of individual users. Wheelchair users have different needs, and manufacturers are focusing on developing customized solutions to meet these needs. Manufacturers are offering customized seating systems, adjustable footrests, and other personalized features to ensure maximum comfort and functionality. Environmental sustainability is becoming a key concern in the wheelchair market. Manufacturers are developing eco-friendly wheelchairs with biodegradable materials, energy-efficient designs, and reduced emissions. Wheelchair manufacturers are focusing on patient safety and comfort by developing products with advanced safety features, ergonomic designs, and pressure relief systems. The rise of e-commerce has transformed the way wheelchair manufacturers reach their customers. Online sales channels have made it easier for wheelchair users to purchase products from the comfort of their homes and have increased accessibility and affordability.

Governments around the world are implementing initiatives and regulations to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. This is driving the demand for wheelchairs and other assistive technologies and creating opportunities for manufacturers in the market. Government regulations play an important role in ensuring that people with disabilities have access to safe and high-quality mobility devices that can improve their quality of life. There are several international standards that govern the design, manufacture, and safety of wheelchairs, including ISO 7176 and ISO 16840. In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the manufacturing and sale of medical devices, including wheelchairs. Wheelchairs are classified as Class II medical devices, and manufacturers must obtain FDA clearance before selling them. The EU Medical Devices Regulation (MDR) sets out the requirements for the design, manufacture, and marketing of medical devices, including wheelchairs. Manufacturers must ensure that their products meet the requirements of the MDR and obtain CE marking before selling them in the EU. Also, in some countries, accessibility requirements may be in place to ensure that public buildings and transportation is wheelchair accessible. For example, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the US require public buildings and transportation to be accessible to people with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs.

According to the research report, the market is segmented into two major product types including electric or powered wheelchair and manual wheelchair. Electric wheelchairs will be the most popular product segment in 2022, as they are mostly used in home-care settings for comfortable movement. The market for electric wheelchairs is expected to grow at a faster rate than the market for manual wheelchairs, due to the increasing aging population and a rise in the incidence of disabilities. Electric wheelchairs offer greater convenience and ease of use for individuals who require mobility assistance. However, manual wheelchairs continue to be popular, especially in developing countries, due to their affordability and simplicity. Among them, centre wheel drive is leading the market in 2022 as CWD electric wheelchairs have become increasingly popular in recent years. CWD electric wheelchairs offer excellent manoeuvrability, stability, comfort, and accessibility, which make them a popular choice for many individuals with mobility impairments. Also, CWD electric wheelchairs are designed to be easily accessible for users, with features such as adjustable footrests, armrests, and headrests. This makes it easier for users to transfer in and out of the wheelchair, as well as adjust the seating position for their comfort.

Further, the market is segmented into various applications including homecare, hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers and rehabilitation centers. Among them, rehabilitation centers are leading the market in 2022. Wheelchairs used in rehabilitation centers are designed to help patients recover from injuries or illnesses. These wheelchairs may have adjustable seats and other features to help patients regain strength and mobility. On the other hand, wheelchairs used in hospitals and clinics are typically designed for durability and ease of use. They may have additional features, such as IV poles or oxygen tank holders, to facilitate medical treatment. In homecare applications, wheelchairs are typically smaller and more lightweight than other types of wheelchairs, making them easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces. Based on the category, the market is segmented into adult and paediatric. Among them, adult segment is leading the market with higher revenue generation in 2022 and is projected to dominate the market by 2028. Adult wheelchairs are designed for individuals who are 18 years or older. These wheelchairs can range from basic to complex, depending on the user's needs. Adult wheelchairs often have larger weight capacities, wider seats, and higher backrests to accommodate adult users. However, paediatric segment is growing with prominent CAGR by 2023-28. Paediatric wheelchairs often come in bright colors and designs to make them more appealing to children. These wheelchairs also have adjustable features, such as footrests and armrests, to accommodate a child's growth and development.

The global market is further segmented into four functions of wheelchair including basic wheelchair, sports wheelchair, bariatric wheelchair and others. Among them, sports wheelchair is projected to grow with higher CAGR by 2023-28. The market for sports wheelchairs is growing as more people with disabilities seek to participate in sports and recreational activities. Companies such as Invacare, Sunrise Medical, and Quickie are some of the leading manufacturers of sports wheelchairs, and they offer a wide range of products designed to meet the needs of different athletes and sports. Additionally, there are many smaller, specialized manufacturers that produce sports wheelchairs for specific sports and activities. However, basic wheelchairs are significant, particularly in developing countries where there is a high incidence of disability and limited access to healthcare infrastructure. Basic wheelchairs are often provided through government and non-governmental organization (NGO) initiatives, and their affordability makes them accessible to individuals with low income. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the demand for basic wheelchairs as individuals with disabilities are at a higher risk of severe illness and require mobility aids to maintain social distancing and access healthcare services. The demand for bariatric wheelchairs is driven by several factors, including the increasing prevalence of obesity, the growing aging population, and the rising incidence of chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Moreover, the development of advanced bariatric wheelchairs with features such as lightweight materials, adjustable armrests, and removable footrests has further increased their popularity. Some of the key players in the global bariatric wheelchair market include Invacare Corporation, Pride Mobility Products Corporation, Sunrise Medical (US) LLC, and GF Health Products, Inc. These companies are continuously innovating and introducing new products to meet the growing demand for bariatric wheelchairs.

Recant Developments:
• Graham-Field invested millions in a sophisticated 3D Fiber Optic Laser Tube Cutting System in September 2022. Graham-current Field's laser cutting equipment will be supplemented by this next-generation system.
• In April 2021, mobility manufacturer Permobil agreed to acquire Progeo in order to strengthen its Italian market and expand its portfolio of manual wheelchairs in Europe.
• Invacare Corporation introduced the Invacare AVIVA STORM RX power wheelchair in August 2021, which provided rear-wheel drive power mobility. This newly released product is superior in terms of technology, design, and performance.
• LUCI, a company that is reimagining modern mobility, announced the launch of its premier product "LUCI" in June 2020. The LUCI platform is a high-tech hardware and software platform that attaches to a power wheelchair to provide stability, security, and connectivity.
• Invacare Corporation announced the launch of the Invacare AVIVA FX Power Wheelchair in March 2020, setting a new standard in the front-wheel drive power mobility market.
• UPnRIDE Robotics Ltd. received USFDA approval in February 2020 to market the "UPnRIDE Robotic Standing Wheelchair," the first and only smart and robotic mobility device in the United States.
• Sunrise Medical released the QUICKIE ACCESS, a knee-pivot manual wheelchair with tilt and recline that can be used independently, in July 2022.
• Invacare Corporation introduced the Invacare AVIVA FX Power Wheelchair, the next generation in front-wheel drive power mobility. Further, the company introduced e-fix eco; the next generation of power assist devices, in February 2022. A joystick, battery, and in-wheel motors transform a manual wheelchair into a portable power chair with the Alber e-fix eco Power Assist. This wheelchair provides increased mobility and independence, as well as a simple control unit.

Covid-19 Impact:
The COVID-19 pandemic hampered the expansion of the powered wheelchair market. The healthcare industry's supply chain has been severely harmed in recent years. According to the Invacare Corporation's annual report, the epidemic caused various shipping and logistics issues, resulting in a global shortage of critical and non-essential medical items. The epidemic hampered businesses' access to essential goods and raw materials, affecting their financial health. Non-acute care was restricted, postponed, or even curtailed in various parts of the world as a result of the pandemic, which had an impact on this industry because end-users couldn't get these products. The mining industry's recovery from the COVID-19 issue, on the other hand, may help the economy recover quickly. Furthermore, the positive financial outlook is expected to support mining companies' resilience as they deal with the effects of the pandemic on their daily operations. As a result, the global sales of electric wheelchairs may increase.

Companies Mentioned in this Report:
Karma Medical Products Co., Ltd., Aquila Corporation, Ride Designs, Hoveround Corporation, Invacare Corporation, Levo AG, Matia Mobility, Medline

Considered in this report
• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report
• Global wheelchair market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Region-wise wheelchair market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Regions covered in the report:
• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle East & Africa

By Product type:
• Electric & Powered Wheelchair
• Manual Wheelchair

By Electric & Powered Wheelchair Type:
• Center Wheel Drive
• Front Wheel Drive
• Rear Wheel Drive
• Others (Standing Power Wheelchair, Paediatric Power Wheelchair, Portable Power Wheelchairs, Elevating-Seat Capable Power Wheelchairs, Heavy Duty Power Wheelchairs, etc.)

By Category Type:
• Adult
• Paediatric

By Application Type:
• Homecare
• Hospitals
• Ambulatory Surgical Centers
• Rehabilitation Centers

By Function Type:
• Basic Wheelchair
• Sports Wheelchair
• Bariatric Wheelchair
• Standing Wheelchair
• Others (Reclining Wheelchair, Foldable Wheelchair, Beach Wheelchairs, Dog Wheelchairs, etc.)

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analysing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to Wheelchair industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.

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