23 Jun AVIVA INVESTORS WELCOMES UK’S NUMBER-ONE, MOBILITY EQUIPMENT RETAILER TO BARWELL BUSINESS PARK

The UK’s leading mobility equipment retailer, Wheelfreedom, is to expand its operations through a leasing agreement with Aviva Investors at Barwell Business Park.

Founded in 2007, Wheelfreedom is an established retailer of mobility equipment including wheelchairs, mobility scooters and rise & recline chairs, available for purchase, hire and on the Motability scheme.

Having outgrown their current site in Wandsworth, Wheelfreedom are relocating to a new HQ in Barwell Business Park to incorporate a substantial showroom, as well as offices, workshop and warehousing space.

Chris Sedgwick, General Manager, said: “The industry-leading showroom will allow the business to develop to the next level, providing a centre of excellence for product demonstration and specialist assessments that is unrivalled in the south-east of England in terms of range of products and expertise.

“Barwell Business Park was an ideal site for Wheelfreedom, with its good road access to both London, the M25 and the south east, the company’s catchment area. The bus links and wheelchair-friendly Chessington South station enable disabled customers public transport access to visit the site, as well as helping to attract staff. Finally, the park’s well-maintained appearance fits with Wheelfreedom’s ethos and provides a good impression to site visitors.”

Bridger Bell acted on behalf of Aviva Investors to secure the occupier agreement while Grant Mills Wood represented Wheelfreedom.

Colin Lawrence-Waterhouse, Asset Manager, Aviva Investors, said: “Wheelfreedom’s move from Wandsworth is symptomatic of businesses looking to move further out from cities in favour of higher quality, more affordable space whilst retaining excellent transport links.

“We are delighted that another renowned, national company has chosen Barwell Business Park to dramatically grow their business operations. We look forward to welcoming Wheelfreedom’s staff and customers and wish them the best of luck in their exciting new facility.”

Wheelfreedom’s move to the newly refurbished unit 61 indicates the business park’s increasing reputation as a preferred site for health businesses following recent lettings to STERIS IMS and Opcare.

It is also a boost to residents in the Royal Borough of Kingston and beyond who require mobility equipment.

The borough’s Disability Champion Christine Stuart, Councillor for Chessington South, said: “To be able to see and try out equipment by visiting a showroom on our doorstep, is fantastic news for Kingston residents. It is also a significant boost to the local economy that Wheelfreedom has chosen Barwell Business Park for its new centre of excellence. This will do much for the reputation of Barwell, Chessington and the borough as a whole in this sector, encourage new skills in the local labour market and shine a spotlight on how 21st century mobility technology can support an inclusive society.”