News Summary
Permobil has announced a significant investment of $15.5 million in Lebanon, Tennessee, aimed at enhancing mobility solutions for individuals with disabilities. This move marks an expansion of Permobil’s operations, which have been a staple in the community for nearly 25 years. The company focuses on delivering high-quality, customized mobility aids and plans to create around 70 new jobs over the next five years, fostering local economic growth and innovation in the mobility solutions sector.
Lebanon Welcomes Major Investment from Permobil to Boost Mobility Solutions
Exciting news for Lebanon, Tennessee! The internationally renowned company, Permobil, is making waves with a significant investment of $15.5 million aimed at enhancing mobility solutions for individuals with disabilities. This move not only strengthens the company’s presence in the region but also underscores its steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for those who rely on mobility aids.
A Legacy of Innovation and Expansion
For nearly 25 years, Permobil has called Lebanon home after relocating from Boston, Maryland. Since that initial move, the company has blossomed, expanding its workforce and increasing capacity by launching innovative products designed with the needs of its users in mind. As an international leader in the mobility solutions arena, Permobil’s dedication to empowering individuals with disabilities to live independently has never wavered.
Quality at the Heart of Production
At the helm of Permobil Americas is Chuck Witkowski, who emphasizes the company’s focus on product quality and a culture that revolves around passion. The high-end power and manual wheelchairs manufactured by Permobil are personalized to fit individual needs, similar to how prosthetic devices work for those needing them. The company understands that the functionality and durability of its products are paramount, aiming to prevent users from facing the unsettling situation of equipment failure.
Expansion Plans Unveiled
In collaboration with Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and the Tennessee Economic and Community Development (TNECD) officials, Permobil unveiled its expansion plan in 2022. This ambitious project is set to not only improve product accessibility but also launch new manual wheelchairs under the stylish Tilite brand. The upcoming Tilite X and Tilite Z models promise to redefine industry standards, boasting enhanced weight capacity and customizability, tailored directly to the unique needs of their users.
Speedy Production and Job Creation
One of the standout features of this expansion is Permobil’s commitment to efficiency. The company’s advanced manufacturing process enables them to fulfill custom orders in as little as five days, a feat that is unmatched across the industry. As the Lebanon facility serves as one of only two global sites for power wheelchair production, this expansion will inevitably lead to more streamlined production processes and reduced lead times for getting products into the hands of those who need them most. Over the next five years, the company plans to create around 70 new jobs in the community, signaling a positive growth trajectory for the local economy.
Celebrating Milestones and Future Plans
The enthusiasm surrounding Permobil’s expansion reached new heights when the first chair rolled off the production line on October 17, 2024. This milestone reflects not just the company’s growth but also its commitment to fostering a work environment that supports professional development for its employees. Employees have experienced significant career advancements, showcasing the potential for growth within the company.
Looking ahead, Witkowski notes that innovation remains at the forefront of Permobil’s mission. The company is gearing up for continuous product extensions and workforce growth, reinforcing its position as a pivotal player in the global mobility solutions market.
Community Engagement and Corporate Culture
Permobil is not only committed to delivering quality products but also to becoming a destination employer for individuals with disabilities. The company actively seeks partnerships with local organizations to bolster job opportunities, ensuring that it contributes positively to the community in more ways than one. The corporate culture at Permobil is built on principles of compassion, strategic planning, and a drive for continuous improvement, which has been essential to their success.
A Legacy of Recognition
Permobil’s innovative spirit shines through its groundbreaking technologies, notably introducing the first standing power wheelchair and setting the bar high with advanced seating solutions. Their commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, with the company recently being recognized for their exceptional products, including accolades like TIME Magazine’s recognition of the Explorer Mini among the best inventions of 2021.
Overall, Permobil’s expansion in Lebanon promises to not only enhance mobility solutions but also to invigorate the local community with new job opportunities, innovative products, and a renewed commitment to fostering independence for individuals with disabilities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- TNECD: A New Chapter of Mobility Inside Permobil’s Expansion in Tennessee
- Wikipedia: Mobility scooter
- HME News: Permobil and PDG Share Vision
- Google Search: Permobil expansion
- Tennessean: Nashville Hub to Manufacture Motorized Wheelchairs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wheelchair
- TNECD: Governor Lee and Commissioner Rolfe Announce Permobil Expansion
- Google News: Permobil Tennessee
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
