In 2021, the Active Wheelchair for Sample worldwide was worth $1.9 billion US dollars. AMR Group projects that the market will reach US$ 2.7 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.4 percent between 2022 and 2031.
Industry Overview
An active wheelchair is a type of wheelchair that is designed for people with mobility disabilities who require a high degree of independence and maneuverability. Active wheelchairs are usually lightweight and have a sleek design, making them more agile and easier to maneuver than traditional wheelchairs.
Active wheelchairs are typically used by people who have good upper body strength and control, as they require the user to push the chair manually. These wheelchairs often feature specialized components such as high-performance wheels, lightweight frames, and adjustable seating systems, which are designed to improve the user's performance and comfort. Active wheelchairs are often used for sports and recreational activities, as well as for everyday use. They allow people with mobility disabilities to be more active and independent, and can greatly improve their quality of life.
Market Dynamics
The market dynamics for active wheelchairs have been steadily growing in recent years, driven by a combination of demographic trends, technological advancements, and evolving consumer preferences. Demographic trends, including an aging population and an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and cerebral palsy, are fueling demand for active wheelchairs. As people with mobility disabilities look for ways to remain active and maintain their independence, they are increasingly turning to active wheelchairs as a solution.
Technological advancements in the field of mobility devices have also contributed to the growth of the active wheelchair market. Innovations such as lightweight materials, ergonomic designs, and advanced wheel and suspension systems have made active wheelchairs more comfortable, efficient, and durable than ever before. Moreover, changing consumer preferences have also played a role in the growth of the active wheelchair market. Consumers are now demanding more customizable and personalized products that cater to their specific needs and preferences. As a result, manufacturers are offering a wider range of features and options in their active wheelchair products, such as adjustable seating systems, different wheel sizes, and color options. Overall, the active wheelchair market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand from people with mobility disabilities for more advanced, customizable, and user-friendly products that allow them to maintain an active and independent lifestyle.
COVID Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the active wheelchair market, both in terms of demand and supply. Here are some ways in which the pandemic has affected the market dynamics:
Increased demand for home-use active wheelchairs: With lockdowns and restrictions in place in many countries, people with mobility disabilities are spending more time at home. This has led to an increased demand for home-use active wheelchairs that are more comfortable and durable than traditional wheelchairs. Delayed production and supply chain disruptions: The pandemic has caused delays in production and supply chain disruptions for active wheelchair manufacturers. This has led to longer lead times and reduced availability of some models and features.
Increased use of telehealth and virtual consultations: With in-person consultations and fittings limited, many manufacturers and healthcare providers are turning to telehealth and virtual consultations to assist customers in selecting the right active wheelchair and making adjustments remotely. Budget constraints: The economic impact of the pandemic has caused financial constraints for many people with mobility disabilities, making it difficult for them to afford active wheelchairs with advanced features and customization options.
Increased awareness of mobility devices: The pandemic has raised awareness of the importance of mobility devices in enabling people with mobility disabilities to maintain their independence and quality of life. This has led to increased interest in active wheelchairs and other mobility devices, which could lead to sustained growth in the market in the long term. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a mixed impact on the active wheelchair market, with increased demand for home-use active wheelchairs and delayed production and supply chain disruptions being the most significant factors.
Regional Trend
The demand for active wheelchairs varies by region, with some regions experiencing higher demand than others. Here is a regional analysis of the active wheelchair market:
North America: The North American market for active wheelchairs is one of the largest in the world, driven by a high prevalence of mobility disabilities, an aging population, and a strong healthcare infrastructure. The United States is the largest market in the region, with a large number of active wheelchair manufacturers and a growing demand for advanced features and customization options.
Europe: The European market for active wheelchairs is also significant, driven by an aging population, a high prevalence of chronic diseases, and a well-established healthcare system. The region has a large number of active wheelchair manufacturers, with the United Kingdom, Germany, and France being the largest markets.
Asia-Pacific: The Asia-Pacific market for active wheelchairs is rapidly growing, driven by a large population, an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and rising disposable incomes. China, Japan, and India are the largest markets in the region, with a growing demand for advanced and customized active wheelchairs.
Latin America: The Latin American market for active wheelchairs is relatively small but growing, driven by an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and an aging population. Brazil is the largest market in the region, with a growing demand for lightweight and durable active wheelchairs.
Middle East and Africa: The Middle East and Africa market for active wheelchairs is relatively small but growing, driven by an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and an aging population. The market is fragmented, with a large number of small manufacturers and distributors. South Africa is the largest market in the region, with a growing demand for active wheelchairs that can handle rough terrain and uneven surfaces. Overall, the demand for active wheelchairs is expected to grow across all regions due to demographic trends, technological advancements, and changing consumer preferences. However, the growth rate may vary by region based on factors such as healthcare infrastructure, disposable incomes, and the prevalence of mobility disabilities.
Competitive Landscape
The active wheelchair market is highly competitive, with a large number of manufacturers and distributors operating in the industry. Here are some of the key players in the market:
Invacare Corporation: Invacare is a leading global manufacturer and distributor of medical equipment, including active wheelchairs. The company offers a wide range of active wheelchairs, including lightweight and high-performance models.
Sunrise Medical: Sunrise Medical is a global manufacturer and distributor of mobility devices, including active wheelchairs. The company offers a range of active wheelchairs with advanced features and customization options.
Ottobock: Ottobock is a German-based company that specializes in prosthetics and orthotics. The company also offers a range of active wheelchairs with advanced features, including powered wheelchairs and lightweight manual wheelchairs.
Permobil: Permobil is a Swedish-based company that specializes in powered wheelchairs and mobility devices. The company offers a range of active wheelchairs with advanced features, including adjustable seating systems and advanced control systems.
Pride Mobility Products: Pride Mobility Products is a US-based company that specializes in mobility devices, including active wheelchairs. The company offers a range of active wheelchairs with advanced features, including customizable seating systems and advanced suspension systems.
Quantum Rehab: Quantum Rehab is a US-based company that specializes in powered wheelchairs and mobility devices. The company offers a range of active wheelchairs with advanced features, including tilt and recline seating systems and advanced control systems.
Meyra: Meyra is a German-based company that specializes in mobility devices, including active wheelchairs. The company offers a range of active wheelchairs with advanced features, including lightweight and foldable models.
Market Segmentation
The active wheelchair market can be segmented based on various factors, including product type, technology, end-user, and region. Here are some of the key market segments:
By product type:
Manual Active Wheelchairs: These are self-propelled wheelchairs that require the user to move the chair using their upper body strength.
Power Active Wheelchairs: These are motorized wheelchairs that are powered by rechargeable batteries.
Hybrid Active Wheelchairs: These are active wheelchairs that combine the features of both manual and power wheelchairs.
By technology:
Traditional Active Wheelchairs: These are basic wheelchairs that are designed for general use.
Customized Active Wheelchairs: These are active wheelchairs that are designed to meet the specific needs and preferences of the user. They may include specialized seating systems, controls, and other features.
By end-user:
Home Care Settings: Active wheelchairs used by individuals in their homes or in-home care settings.
Hospitals and Clinics: Active wheelchairs used in hospitals and clinics for patient mobility.
Others: Active wheelchairs used in rehabilitation centers, sports, and other settings.
By region:
North America: United States and Canada
Europe: UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific: China, Japan, India, and Rest of Asia Pacific
Latin America: Brazil, Mexico, and Rest of Latin America
Middle East and Africa: GCC Countries, South Africa, and Rest of Middle East & Africa
Overall, the market segmentation of active wheelchairs helps manufacturers and distributors to understand the diverse needs and preferences of their customers and to offer products and services that meet those needs effectively.