Wheelchair Market by Product, End-user, and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2023-2027

Wheelchair Market Forecast 2023-2027

The wheelchair market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.52 billion at a CAGR of 7.56% between 2022 and 2027. The market's expansion hinges on various factors, notably the escalating healthcare expenditure, improved post-treatment services, and the increasing number of elderly individuals. As healthcare spending continues to rise, there's a corresponding demand for advanced medical services and technologies, driving market growth. Moreover, the emphasis on enhancing post-treatment care contributes significantly to the market's development, as it addresses the evolving needs of patients and improves overall healthcare outcomes. Additionally, the aging population demographic, with its associated healthcare requirements and chronic conditions, plays a pivotal role in shaping market dynamics, fostering innovation, and driving investment in healthcare solutions tailored to elderly patients' needs.

What will be the size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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Market Segmentation

This market report extensively covers market segmentation by product (manual wheelchair and powered wheelchair), end-user (personal, hospitals, and sports conditioning), and geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of the World (ROW)). It also includes an in-depth analysis of drivers, trends, and challenges. Furthermore, the report includes historic market data from 2017 to 2021.

Market Dynamics and Customer Landscape

The market is driven by the increasing prevalence of Chronic Diseases such as Arthritis and Spinal Cord Injuries among the Elder Population and Geriatric People. Emerging trends include the integration of Wearable Technology and Electronic Patient Records for enhanced functionality and data tracking. However, challenges like Car Accidents affecting mobility and the need for advanced Therapeutic Tools pose significant hurdles. Additionally, catering to the diverse needs of Disabled individuals while ensuring improved Standard of living remains a key focus for market players. Our researchers analyzed the data with 2022 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

Display tools and monitoring tools are integral components of portable medical equipment, catering to various market segments, including the wheelchair category. Innovations like the Alber e-fix eco Power Assist enhance mobility, particularly in the chemotherapy industry, with new products like folding electric wheelchairs and the Scewo addressing the needs of aging and disabled individuals. Technology breakthroughs in electric wheelchairs and motorized scooters provide crucial support for those with health challenges such as fractured spines, lumbar lordosis, or Down syndrome, empowering them to navigate daily life despite spine curvature or other physical limitations.

Key Market Driver

Enhanced post-treatment services are notably driving market growth. Advanced medical facilities provide better diagnostic services, medical therapies, and machine-assisted surgery supported by a variety of aftercare services such as critical care, neonatal care, and critical care. These services are performed in purpose-built units equipped with advanced clinical mobility products. In facilities such as intensive care units (ICUs) and intensive care units,  patients are placed under observation for recovery. During the recovery period, the patient cannot move from one place to another without assistance. Therefore, these patients require a caregiver-powered power wheelchair. Similarly, convalescent patients in general wards also require mobility aids. For these patients, wheelchairs are primarily used as patient mobility devices. Different patient transfer devices are used in hospitals and other medical facilities, depending on the severity of the patient.

However, most patients use manual wheelchairs for greater comfort and mobility. For example, manual wheelchairs are mainly used in hospitals to transfer patients from the intensive care unit or acute care unit to other departments during patient recovery. Approximately 5.5 to 6.1 million patients are admitted to intensive care units worldwide each year. The increasing number of hospitalized patients requiring mobility during hospitalization has increased the demand for manual wheelchairs. This is driving the growth of the market during the forecast period.  

Significant Market Trends

Automation of manually operated products is a key trend influencing market growth. Clinical mobility products such as wheelchairs are used in healthcare facilities to improve patient mobility. In recent years, technological advances have allowed mobility products to become automated, controlled, and operated with minimal human effort. Various research programs, such as intelligent wheelchair systems and electric wheelchairs, are being conducted to develop intelligent electric wheelchairs that can be controlled via mobile apps or Bluetooth devices. In the United States and Canada, high disposable income and high medical costs have made power wheelchairs and smart chairs popular with people. Western European countries such as Germany, the UK, and France are seeing similar acceptance rates due to rising healthcare costs and well-structured government reimbursement policies.

The rapid adoption of mobility products in these countries has drawn manufacturers and suppliers to expand their business in developed countries. This business expansion includes innovations in wheelchairs and other premium mobility products. Premium products bring more sales to companies and also have a positive impact on the market during the forecast period. 

Major Market Challenge

The high cost of mobility products is challenging the market growth. Wheelchairs are used in hospitals and home care. Among clinical mobility products, manual wheelchairs are perceived as relatively expensive low-end premium products. Due to the different product characteristics such as stability, strength, balance, and smoothness, there is a large price difference between manual wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs, which may increase the unit price of electric wheelchairs. For example, a manual wheelchair can be purchased for less than USD 96, while a power wheelchair can cost USD 950 or more. Therefore, large price differences can influence consumer purchasing decisions. Electric wheelchairs, such as mobility scooters, are rapidly being adopted by older people and patients with mobility problems because they require minimal human effort. Therefore, the demand for these mobility solutions is increasing.

However, alternative products such as canes and walking aids, which are less expensive than wheelchairs,  also hinder the adoption of luxury wheelchairs, especially in developing countries. In addition, local companies are producing lower-cost products that are more affordable than those of global companies, resulting in the rapid adoption of these products by price-sensitive end users. Due to the high cost of electric wheelchairs,  people in developing countries are rapidly adopting more affordable alternatives such as canes and crutches, hindering product penetration in these markets. The increasing cost of mobility products due to low product penetration will significantly hamper the growth of the market during the forecast period. 

Key Market Customer Landscape

The report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator’s stage to the laggard’s stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their growth strategies.

Global Market Customer Landscape

Who are the Major Market companies?

Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.

21st Century Scientific Inc: The company offers different types of wheelchairs, wheelchair accessories, and custom motorized carts.

The report also includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about 15 market companies, including:

• Compass Health Brands
• Etac AB
• Forza Medi India Pvt. Ltd.
• GF Health Products Inc.
• Hoveround Corp.
• Invacare Corp.
• Karma Medical Products Co. Ltd.
• Karman Healthcare Inc.
• Ki Mobility
• Magic Mobility Pty Ltd.
• Medical Depot Inc.
• Medline Industries LP
• NOVA Medical Products
• Ostrich Mobility Instruments Pvt. Ltd.
• Ottobock SE and Co. KGaA
• Permobil AB

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

What is the Fastest-Growing Segments in the Market?

The market encompasses a wide range of segments catering to individuals with various needs and conditions. Chronic Diseases like Arthritis and Spinal Cord Injuries have led to the development of specialized wheelchairs designed for enhanced comfort and mobility. The increasing elderly population and Geriatric People have driven demand for wheelchairs with advanced features to support their daily activities. Innovations in Therapeutic Tools and Diagnostic Tools have led to the creation of ergonomic and customizable wheelchairs to address specific medical requirements related to Chronic Illnesses such as Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease. Wheelchairs equipped with Wearable Technology and Electronic Patient Records offer seamless connectivity and data tracking for improved healthcare outcomes. The Home Healthcare segment has witnessed significant growth, with the availability of Folding Electric Wheelchairs and Smart Chair 3 models that provide convenience and portability. Additionally, advancements in Self-Balancing Wheelchairs and Surrey models cater to Youngsters and individuals seeking a balance between functionality and aesthetics.

The market share growth by the manual wheelchair segment will be significant during the forecast period. The growing geriatric population is influencing the demand for manual wheelchairs, which is the major growth driver of this market. Rising demand for manual wheelchairs and increasing availability in the local market, coupled with lower prices, are supporting acceptance by the elderly and boosting the growth of the market.

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The manual wheelchair segment was valued at USD 1.59 billion in 2017 and continued to grow until 2021. The market is expected to grow at an accelerated pace during the forecast period owing to the increasing disposable income of people in developing countries. Increased disposable income leads to increased medical costs. Demand will increase as people change their mindset from low-end mobility products such as canes, crutches, and walkers to manual wheelchairs for convenience. This increasing demand will force companies to expand their product portfolios and market reach, which is likely to drive market growth during the forecast period. 

Which are the Key Regions for the Market?

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North America is estimated to contribute 36% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

The United States is the largest contributor to the North American market sales. According to the CDC,  the percentage of the US population over the age of 65 is expected to increase from 12.4% in 2000 to 19.6% in 2030. In addition, technological advances in product design, construction, and use, as well as the availability of health insurance reimbursement, are sure to increase the demand for wheelchairs in North America during the forecast period. The rising prevalence of stroke is also spurring demand for these products in North America. Stroke is the leading cause of serious long-term disability in the United States. Approximately 150,000 lower limb losses are recorded each year in the United States. Such cases stimulate demand for wheelchairs in the country. 

Segment Overview

The market report forecasts market growth by revenue at global, regional & country levels and provides a market growth analysis of the latest trends and growth opportunities from 2017 to 2027. 

• Product Outlook 
  • Manual wheelchair
  • Powered wheelchair

• End-user Outlook
  • Personal
  • Hospitals
  • Sports conditioning

• Region Outlook 
  • North America
    • The U.S.
    • Canada
  • Europe
    • U.K.
    • Germany
    • France
    • Rest of Europe
  • Asia
    • China
    • India
  • Rest of World (ROW)
    • South Africa
    • Middle East
    • Brazil

Market Analyst Overview

The market is experiencing significant growth driven by various factors, such as the rising prevalence of chronic diseases like Arthritis and Spinal Cord Injuries among the elderly population and Geriatric People. Organizations like the Urban Institute are contributing to insights into managing Chronic Illnesses such as Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease. The market also sees demand from Car accident survivors needing Portable Care and advanced Therapeutic Tools like Power Assist Devices such as the Alber e-fix eco. Innovations like Wearable Technology and Electronic Patient Records with Wireless Internet Connectivity are transforming Home Healthcare setups, benefiting patients in Home Care Settings as well as Hospitals & Clinics.

Moreover, companies like Invacare Corporation offer a range of products, from Folding Electric Wheelchairs to Smart Chair 3, catering to various demographics from Adults to Pediatrics. Moreover, this market evolution reflects broader societal trends in addressing Mobility diseases and improving Therapeutic services for Disabled individuals amidst challenges like Obesity rates and Transportation accidents in emerging economies. Innovation in Rechargeable wheelchairs and electric scooters and addressing specific conditions like Vertebral abnormalities and Osteoporosis highlights the ongoing progress in Wheelchairs innovation to enhance the Standard of living for those with mobility challenges.

Market Scope
Report Coverage	Details
Page number	155
Base year	2022
Historic period	2017-2021
Forecast period	2023-2027
Growth momentum & CAGR	Accelerate at a CAGR of 7.56%
Market growth 2023-2027	USD 1.52 billion
Market structure	Fragmented
YoY growth 2022-2023(%)	6.6
Regional analysis	North America, Europe, Asia, and the Rest of the World (ROW)
Performing market contribution	North America at 36%
Key countries	US, Germany, France, China, and India
Competitive landscape	Leading companies, Market Positioning of companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks
Key companies profiled	21st Century Scientific Inc., Compass Health Brands, Etac AB, Forza Medi India Pvt. Ltd., GF Health Products Inc., Hoveround Corp., Invacare Corp., Karma Medical Products Co. Ltd., Karman Healthcare Inc., Ki Mobility, Magic Mobility Pty Ltd., Medical Depot Inc., Medline Industries LP, NOVA Medical Products, Ostrich Mobility Instruments Pvt. Ltd., Ottobock SE and Co. KGaA, Permobil AB, Pride Mobility Products Corp., Rainbow Care Pte Ltd., and Sunrise Medical LLC
Market dynamics	Parent market analysis, Market forecasting, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, and Market condition analysis for the forecast period.
Customization purview	If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

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What are the Key Data Covered in this Market Research Report?

• CAGR of the market during the forecast period
• Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the market between 2023 and 2027
• Precise estimation of the size of the market size and its contribution to the market in focus on the parent market
• Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior
• Growth of the market across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Rest of the World (ROW)
• Thorough market growth and forecasting analysis of the market’s competitive landscape and detailed information about companies
• Comprehensive market research and growth analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of market companies

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