Pictured above: Trabasack at Naidex NEC with Event
Director Liz Virgo and winning designers Duncan and Clare
Edwards
Quorn Company Equip-able Ltd is celebrating again after being
recognised for their attractive consumer designs. Their award
winning lap desk and bag, Trabasack, is a unique carry bag that can
be used on your lap as a desk or table. Last week they were
thrilled to find that they were picked as one of the top 'Stylish'
products of thousands seen at a Naidex International Healthcare
show.
"Designed by a busy mum and 'design for all' enthusiast Clare
Edwards, Trabasack appeals to people of all ages and abilities and
really stands out for stylish usability." said Director Duncan
Edwards
Traditional, lap trays and lap desks are not usually known for
their fashionable appeal, however, the beanbag tray or table with a
pillow under it has been replaced by a new cool innovation: the
Trabasack or lap tray bag.
Many products that help people with disabilities are often ugly
or clinical rather than attractive or trendy. But there is a
growing demand for independent living solutions that deliver on
appearance as well as function. Equip-able Ltd are part of a
growing movement of companies that know that consumers believe that
eye pleasing design and function are equally important. This year
at the Naidex National (5-7th April, Birmingham NEC) a new Award
was launched to find the most aesthetically pleasing items on
offer.
The Naidex Style Awards judges browsed the exhibition stands
looking for products that enhance the lives of users without
compromising on looking good. Searching for exhibitors such as
Equip-able Ltd, that will go the extra mile to ensure that their
products are visually appealing as well as improving the
independence and comfort of consumers.
The judges were television presenter and wheelchair basketball
player Ade Adepitan, co-founder of Enabled by Design Denise
Stephens and independent occupational therapist Nikki Chapman. All
three are passionate about finding well-designed assistive
equipment and believe that great style is always achievable no
matter what your disability.
"We were hopeful to be noticed for the award as Ade had
previously presented designer Clare, with a BHTA Independent Living
Design Award in 2009." said Duncan Edwards co-founder of the award
winning company.
Describing the aim of the award, Event Director Liz Virgo
commented, "We feel that the Naidex Style Awards will show all
visitors that it is possible to find stylish solutions for
independent living, something that is becoming increasingly
important. People are not only looking for products that function
well and make life easier, but also products that look good, be
that items of clothing, home equipment or mobility aids."
The winners of the award were announced at 2.30pm on Wednesday
6th of April Naidex in the Inspiration Lounge, NEC Birmingham.
Equip-Able were delighted to be placed as runner up for the Style
Award, pipped only by an inclusive shower range from
Phlexycare.
"We shall be proudly displaying this award." said Duncan "Our
designs are functional and attractive and used by a growing range
of customers. As well as helping people who are wheelchair users,
our biggest sales are to people using them for laptop bags, crafts
and art and children using them in buggies and car seats. We also
have a growing following of students and musicians since internet
sensation Brett Domino began using Trabasacks in his
videos.
Equip-able Ltd have two new products being prototyped and hope
that Trabasack will be stocked by a major High St
retailer.
Equip-able Ltd is an award winning innovative design company
based in Leicestershire, U.K. A social enterprise; our aim is to
promote social inclusion. We offer our customers, British designed,
affordable, products that are useful to everyone.