Impressing our judging panel with its ongoing charity work and glowing feedback from customers, Ableworld (UK) Limited has been named Which? Trusted Trader of the Month.
The company, which is the largest mobility retailer in the country, currently employs 144 staff, including more than 30 engineers supporting Ableworld’s customers and helping to keep them mobile. Ableworld was founded in 2000 and prides itself on being an ethical trader that refuses to pressure-sell items.
We caught up with Sara Chesters, senior operations manager at Ableworld, to find out more about how the company benefits from its Which? Trusted Trader endorsement.
Do you think your company has what it takes to win? Read our guide on how to be the next Which? Trusted Trader of the Month.
Another busy year serving customers
For Ableworld, a Which? Trusted Trader of the Month title proves that the company remains dedicated to offering great customer service. It also tells customers that this is a name they can trust.
Sara explained: ‘Being a Which? Trusted Trader gives our customers the confidence to deal with us, as it shows that we are a reputable trader that is recognised by a leading endorsement. We would definitely encourage traders considering signing up to go for it.’
During a year in which Covid had a massive impact on many businesses, Ableworld was able to continue looking after its customers. At the same time, the company arranged various fundraising activities to help local hospitals and donated PPE to local care homes to keep carers safe.
‘We were allowed to stay open, as Ableworld was classed as an essential retailer. We've consistently been there for our customers when they have needed us, whether that was to help them purchase mobility aids, or to assist with a stairlift installation to enable them to stay in their homes.
‘If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we are well thought of and appreciated.’
Reacting to the December 2021 result, Emma Shaddick, Which? Trusted Trader account manager, said: ‘I am absolutely thrilled for Ableworld on its Trader of the Month win. It is fantastic to work with and such a great ambassador for the Trusted Traders scheme. I can't think of a more worthy winner for December.’
Ableworld customers have their say
On the Which? Trusted Traders website, Ableworld has an impressive customer review score of 4.9 – a near flawless record. We’ve seen no shortage of stories from customers praising a professional service that offers great value for money.
Sharing their experience on the Which? Trusted Traders website, one happy customer explained: ‘We had a stairlift fitted through Ableworld. Arrival was prompt and the work was carried out to a high standard and to the quoted price. Simon (the fitter) was most courteous and helpful.’
Other dazzling review says: ‘[Ableworld] installed a stairlift for me. They turned up on time and worked hard while they were here. The fitters demonstrated how use the stairlift and didn't rush us at all. The installer was a lovely lad and there was no pressure during the sale.'
Working with local charities
December’s Trader of the Month winner regularly takes part in charity events. Over the past few months, Ableworld has supported the Alzheimer’s Society Cupcake Day and Macmillan Cupcake Day, raising more than £350.
This year marks Ableworld’s 20th birthday. To celebrate, staff at all stores and head office have been taking part in a sunflower growing competition, raising more than £170 for charity in the process.
Meanwhile, a donation box at head office has generated more than £800 to support multiple charities, including National Autistic Society, Chance Change Lives, The Wingate Centre, Little Princess Trust and St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice.
We also heard how mental health charity Real Men Talk (RMT) teamed up with Ableworld. Sara told us: ‘RMT met Ryan through their charity – his nerve tissue complaint has made his mobility very limited. Because of this, RMT decided to surprise Ryan with a new mobility scooter from Ableworld. The group raised an incredible £1,000, and we decided to give 20% extra to their fundraising to make the overall cheque £1,200.
‘Ryan was completely overwhelmed by the kindness of both Ableworld and RMT.’
One of our judges said: ‘The Ableworld team obviously engages with its endorsement a lot, and the amount of charity work is admirable. The company really stands out for me as clear winners.’
Another member of our judging panel added: ‘The amount of charity work that the company has done is extremely impressive and so lovely to read about - It shows Ableworld is a company that really cares and shares the same values as Which?’
The power of the Which? Trusted Trader logo
Ableworld has always been keen to show off its Trusted Trader endorsement. The company displays the Trusted Trader logo on all of its vans and on staff uniform, plus you’ll find it on the company’s catalogues and leaflets.
Sara told us: ‘We also use the Trusted Trader logo on our social media channels when possible. We love to find exciting images and stories to post alongside the logo, such as our staff taking it up to a mountain to watch the sunrise to get a stunning photo. We also have our own teddy bear mascot in stores wearing Trusted Trader merchandise!’
Speaking about Ableworld’s relationship with Which?, Sara said: ‘Which? is an instantly recognised brand that's trusted by many people. We were keen to become a Trusted Trader, as it fits well with the ethics of our business: not pressure-selling, and only selling products that the customer requires.
‘We feel that the [Trusted Trader] endorsement has had a positive effect on our business, endorsing our business ethics and giving our customers, many of whom are vulnerable, the confidence to deal with us.’
Congratulations to Ableworld (UK) Limited for winning the December 2021 Which? Trusted Trader of the Month award.