Harrogate business secures US export deal

Based in Harrogate, and employing more than 40 staff at its offices and warehouse, the firm founded by CEO Paul Starkey in 2007 has grown to be the UK�s leading brand of orthopaedic supports, sold online and through retailers and pharmacies including Boots, Superdrug and Lloyds Pharmacy.

The launch marks the first time that Neo G�s Class 1 medical devices have been available in the USA through a national retailer. The company already retails in 18 countries around the world and has ambitious growth plans for the US, where it aims to become the number one brand in the premium orthopaedic support market.

Paul Starkey, Neo G founder and CEO, said the agreement with Rite Aid was part of his company�s mission to bring high quality supports, developed in conjunction with physiotherapists, direct to consumers at a volume price point.

�This is the first time our fully accredited medical grade supports have been available in stores nationally in the USA and we hope to expand our reach through more stores and other US retailers over the coming months,� commented Mr Starkey.

Neo G�s products use cutting edge materials and technology to provide relief from a number of conditions such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain and plantar fasciitis. Its extensive range of patented arm, back and leg supports as well as compression hosiery, neck braces and products for hand rehabilitation and foot care have been developed and rigorously tested in association with the UK�s Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Neo G products are also registered with the US Food and Drug Administration, Health Canada and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency in the UK.

�Our ongoing research and development programme means we have been able to develop many patented, unique solutions to help patient recovery and pain management, and we are constantly testing new products with the input of medical specialists,� added Dan Jones, commercial director of Neo G.

Research has shown increasing consumer demand for medical grade orthopaedically engineered supports and braces to help with recovery from injury and surgery as well as to effectively alleviate pain from a range of chronic conditions. Longer waiting times to see specialist doctors, rising insurance premiums and �out of pocket� limits, together with reduced coverage by some US insurance providers, are all contributing to the increase in sales of premium hospital quality products across the sector in North America.

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