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Halfords Keep Generations Moving with Mobility Range Launch
Mobility aids such as scooters and wheelchairs are set to become as common as car and bike accessories on the High Street.
Halfords is rolling out an extensive range of competitively priced products in all 248 UK superstores from 17th May 2010 and will become the first major retailer to offer a credible mobility range in its stores.
The mobility market is already worth an estimated £500 million a year in the UK and is set to soar. There are currently 9 million permanently or temporarily disabled people in Britain. The likelihood of being disabled and receiving care increases with age and by 2024, it is predicted that one in three people in the UK will be over 60 years old. By 2028 there will be a 16% increase in the number of people of all ages, but a massive 85% increase in the number of people aged 80 and over.
The rise in customer demand and has prompted the car accessory, camping and bike retailer to expand into the mobility market to cater for the growing older population who still want to stay independent.
Halfords scale and buying power has meant they will offer mobility scooters at up to a 20% less than average market prices and give a "UK's lowest price Guarantee" on all mobility products.
A pilot project, launched at the end of last year in a limited number of outlets proved there was a huge demand for mobility products including, scooters, walking aids and wheelchairs, to be made more widely available.
A recent Which? report into sales of mobility aids singled out internet retailers for particular criticism for their lack of knowledge about the products they were selling.
Halfords specially trained in store specialists provide free build and safety checks as well as after sales service and support. Online customers can refer to a comprehensive advice section including scooter demonstrations, and can choose to have their scooter delivered to their home where a trained specialist will provide a free demonstration.
Until now there has been a shortage of accessible retail outlets selling these products at competitive prices. The products will be sold side by side in stores in aisles with children and adult cycles, baby seats and car parts.
Natalie Scott, Halfords Mobility Product Manager, explained the company's commitment to customer service: "We have made the decision to extend our mobility range to all our superstores and we are in this market to stay. We are determined to ensure we give our customers the best service possible, as well as the lowest prices.
"Our own research revealed that 89% of our less able customers wanted to see mobility products more widely available. In our view too many mobility aids are bought online or through mail order. We are making products more easily available at competitive prices and providing a superior customer experience."
Prices start at £595.74 (excluding VAT) for scooters, £106.37 (excluding VAT) for wheelchairs and £68.08 (excluding VAT) for wheeled walking aids.
Halfords has managed to utilise existing store space for their mobility range, allowing them to increase sales without impacting on established product lines.
ENDS