Europe Pressure Relief Mattress Market

Market Overview

The Europe pressure relief mattress market size witnessed significant growth in the past and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period (2023-2030).

A pressure relief mattress incorporates materials like foam, air, gel, or water to distribute the pressure or weight of an individual evenly. These mattresses offer comfort and are crucial in treating and preventing pressure injuries. The market for pressure relief mattresses is segmented based on type, including fluid-filled, air-filled, and solid-filled mattresses. It is also categorized by distribution channels, such as direct and indirect sales, involving distributors, retail stores, and online retailers. The market is expected to experience substantial growth due to factors like increased awareness of pressure injuries and significant investments in healthcare facilities.

Demand and adoption of pressure relief mattresses in Europe vary across regions. Belgium, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the U.K. have acknowledged the significance of preventing pressure injuries and have taken measures to address them. The introduction of awareness campaigns and guidelines for pressure ulcer prevention has played a role in driving the growth of the pressure relief mattress market in these areas.

Highlights

• Air-filled mattresses dominated the market by product.
• Healthcare dominated the market by end-user.
• Indirect sales dominated the market by sales channel.
• France dominated the market by region.

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Substantial Investment in Healthcare Facilities

In Europe, in recent times, the medical and healthcare field has undergone rapid advancements due to scientific and technological progress. Integrating big data, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) has fueled substantial growth in the healthcare industry, with promising prospects for the future. Consequently, the pharmaceutical sector has achieved significant success in research and development, creating new medicines, treatments, and devices. Moreover, personalized and innovative healthcare solutions have become standard practices within the medical industry.

According to data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC), specialized pharmaceutical products generated sales of approximately USD 12.2 billion in 2017, expected to rise significantly in the coming years. Governments and major private entities are increasing their investments in developing new drugs and medical treatments, particularly for diseases such as COVID-19 and neglected tropical or rare diseases. This surge in demand has also extended to pressure relief mattresses as hospitals expand their facilities.

Increasing Awareness about Pressure Injuries

In Europe, Governments have acknowledged the seriousness of pressure injuries and strongly emphasize improving the quality of healthcare facilities. They have implemented various awareness campaigns, such as the 'Stop the Pain' initiative, to educate patients and caregivers about the importance of pressure relief in preventing such injuries. In the United States, pressure ulcers affect more than 2.5 million individuals annually; in the United Kingdom, the number is around 0.7 million. The CEO of Bruin Biometrics LLC has revealed that the United States spends a substantial amount, approximately USD 26,800 million, on pressure ulcer treatment each year.

Pressure relief mattresses are a crucial preventive measure for pressure ulcers widely used in hospitals and medical facilities. The demand for these mattresses is increasing, particularly in hospitals where they are utilized on beds to ensure the well-being of patients and provide relief for discomfort in areas like the shoulders and elbows.

Market Restraints

High Cost of Pressure Relief Mattress

Mattresses are vital in ensuring comfort and providing care to patients, particularly those suffering from chronic pain or requiring extended bed rest. It is crucial for a mattress to offer both comfort and effective pressure relief for areas of the body that experience stress and strain. Patients who spend prolonged periods in bed greatly benefit from pressure relief mattresses as they help prevent the development of pressure ulcers and bedsores, which can cause discomfort and increase the risk of infections. These mattresses employ various techniques to alleviate pressure on high-risk areas of the body. Although pressure relief mattresses tend to be more expensive, the integration of AI-enabled pressure sensors is anticipated to contribute to price increases in the future.

Market Opportunities

Growing Demand for Geriatric Care

The world is on the verge of a significant demographic transition, with the number of individuals over 65 surpassing younger populations. This shift is driven by declining fertility rates and notable increases in life expectancy, resulting in a continuous process of population aging. The World Health Organization reports that in 2019 there were approximately one billion people aged 60 and above. By 2030, this number is projected to reach 1.4 billion; by 2050, it is estimated to reach 2.1 billion. Developing countries are expected to experience a particularly rapid growth in their elderly populations.

Among the challenges faced by the aging population, the degeneration of lumbar spine joints is a common issue, leading to conditions such as osteoarthritis and spinal stenosis. These conditions cause stiffness and reduced mobility, making everyday activities difficult. As a result, there is an increasing demand for advanced pressure relief mattresses, including kinetic beds and dynamic air therapy beds, to meet the needs of the rapidly growing elderly population and improve their overall quality of life.

Regional Analysis

The European pressure relief mattress market is segmented by country: Germany, France, The UK, Italy, Spain, Benelux, Rest of Europe. France dominated the market with a CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period.

In Europe, countries such as Belgium, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the U.K. have a higher prevalence of pressure injuries. Patients who experience pressure injuries face various consequences, including increased pain, decreased vital signs, reduced mobility, and a significant impact on their overall quality of life. According to the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (EPUAP), approximately 20% of patients suffer from some form of pressure injury. The Netherlands has proactively addressed this issue and has dedicated significant efforts to prevent such injuries. EPUAP estimates that the Netherlands allocates around 1% of its healthcare budget for pressure ulcers.

The United Kingdom also faces a high prevalence of pressure ulcers. Still, it has established comprehensive guidelines for their prevention and treatment through the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). NICE recommends specific measures based on the severity of the ulcer. Individuals with grade 1 and 2 ulcers are advised to use a foam pressure relief mattress as a minimum provision. For those with grade 3 or 4 pressure ulcers, NICE recommends an alternating-pressure mattress, a high-specification foam mattress with an alternating-pressure overlay, or a continuous low-pressure system.

Segmental Analysis

The Europe pressure relief mattress market is segmented into product, end-user, and sales channels.

By product, it is further segmented into fluid-filled, air-filled, and solid-filled mattresses.

The air-filled mattress dominated the market and is expected to register a CAGR of 8.2% over the forecast period.

It is further segmented by end-user into individual, healthcare, and hospitality.

Healthcare dominates the market and is expected to register a CAGR of 8.8% over the forecast period.

By sales channel, it is further segmented into direct sales and indirect sales.

Indirect sales dominate the market and are expected to register a CAGR of 7.8% over the forecast period.

Recent Developments

• May 2022- Invacare introduced the Birdie Evo XPLUS Patient Lift to the U.S. Market to strengthen its regional business with new healthcare appliances.
• January 2022- Hillrom announced to continue its Advanced Connected Care as Part of Baxter, a combination to transform the Global Healthcare Landscape.
• January 2022- Paramount Bed Company launched its new digital media channel, Paramount Bed Global Channel.