Invacare Case Study

Q3: What have been the “keys to success” for Invacare in the past? Are these likely to change in the future?
Invacare Corporation (NYSE:IVC), has its headquarters in Elyria, Ohio. It is the leading global distributor and manufacturer of creative long-term and home care medical devices that promote active lifestyles and recovery. Invacare has 6,000 associates and active markets.
The major success factor of Invacare was the increased demand for wheelchairs by the Vietnam War soldiers in the 1970s. As such, the wounded soldiers needed to recover and regain their lives as civilians but the injuries sustained during the war posed a great challenge. A series of awareness campaigns on the important roles of people, regardless of their physical disabilities,

The company has grown from a tiny company to the industry leader in home/long-term care markets. Though the company’s history may seem like a success story—which it is—it’s future remains unclear. The country’s healthcare system has undergone drastic changes in the last several years and more changes are on the way. Invacare will need to get creative to stray off its competitors as well as maintaining its exceptional reputation of building great products. In addition, we would suggest is that Invacare advertise their products more. It is highly likely that most people have never heard of Invacare. Advertising in doctor offices, hospitals/clinics, as well as sending brochures to individuals may increase sales for Invacare. Individuals may see the logos on the hospital be but they don’t realize they can purchase their products as well for personal use. This will help the company grow its profits, which they can use for further product

As a marketing technique, it engages in designing wheelchairs for sports, especially rugby, racing, tennis, and basketball. The company organizes and sponsors sporting events which help to increase its brand awareness in the market. More manufacturers are likely to venture into the market and Invacare needs to counter such competition. As such, it needs to advance its adverts and review its marketing techniques to stay ahead and relevant in the market.
Invacare should keep studying the market so they can keep up with their competitors. Although Invacare does keep a cost constraint strategy they shouldn’t let that keep them from further innovation. As there are consumers who are able to afford more expensive products. For future investments Invacare, can expand more internationally and expand their range of countries they currently deliver to. The company can also improve products they acquired from other companies to keep up the image Invacare has for