BUSINESS ADVISORS APPOINT INTERIM LIQUIDATOR
Donald McNaught (pictured above), restructuring partner at accountancy and business advisory firm Johnston Carmichael, has been appointed as interim liquidator of Staels Design Limited, trading as WheelAir.
The Glasgow-based disability equipment supplier has developed a range of innovative products to regulate the temperature and moisture levels of wheelchair users, who are at higher risk of overheating.
Its proprietary technology previously attracted the attention of Dragons’ Den investors Peter Jones and Deborah Meaden, who wanted to invest in the business after its founder Corien Staels appeared on the BBC show.
Donald McNaught, Head of Restructuring at Johnston Carmichael, said: “Following funding issues, WheelAir is unable to continue trading in its present form, but offers a very exciting opportunity to acquire an established business with an innovative market-ready product and unique intellectual property with the potential to transform the lives of wheelchair users.
Interested parties have until Wednesday 8 February to place a bid.” Hilco Streambank is assisting Johnston Carmichael in the sale of Staels Design Limited’s IP and business assets.
Founded in 2016, the business is best known for its WheelAir system – an award-winning patented cooling wheelchair back-rest cushion which can be retrofitted to any wheelchair.
Designed with the input of Paralympic athletes as well as wheelchair producers, WheelAir is the product of several years of research and development and almost £1m in investment.
The system works by dispersing air evenly across the seat surface to lower temperature, remove moisture build-up, and keep skin dry and clean. Its employs inbuilt fan technology, which not only cools the back but also reduces the user’s core temperature by removing excess heat and moisture, allowing for instant comfort and better temperature control.
The cushion offers extra support through a unique blend of carefully selected foams, helping to prevent pressure sores.
