A Motivation wheelchair designed for rougher terrains.
Merits Health Products has partnered with Motivation to restart the production and global distribution of the Motivation wheelchair line, “restoring access to mobility solutions relied upon by rehabilitation providers, humanitarian organizations, and adaptive sports programs around the world,” the manufacturer said in a March 16 press release.
“For more than three decades, Motivation Charitable Trust has played a leading role in advancing appropriate wheelchair provision for people living in low-resource regions,” the Merits announcement added. “The organization helped shape global best practices by consulting with the World Health Organization (WHO) on wheelchair provision guidelines, designing durable wheelchairs capable of navigating rough terrain, and developing entry-level sports wheelchairs that expand access to adaptive athletics.”
Merits noted that according to WHO statistics, an estimated 65 million people worldwide require wheelchairs for their personal mobility, “yet in some regions, only one in 10 people who need one have access.”
Motivation mobility devices and educational programs have been used in Africa, Asia and other areas where access to appropriate mobility devices remains a challenge.
“Over the past decade, Motivation intentionally decentralized its operations, shifting resources and leadership closer to the communities it serves,” Merits said in the announcement. “Regional teams in Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, India and neighboring countries now lead much of the work in areas where access to appropriate wheelchairs can be as low as 10%.”
Motivation’s United Kingdom-based operations closed in late 2025, citing financial issues including reduced international funding. “The closure halted production and supply of the organization’s wheelchairs, seating systems, trikes, sports equipment and replacement parts used by aid organizations and rehabilitation providers worldwide,” the announcement said.
That changed this month, as Merits, who has been the exclusive Motivation manufacturing partner for the last 25 years, “reached an agreement to resume production and ensure continued global access to the product line,” the manufacturer said.
“It’s a natural fit for Merits,” said Jonathan Cheng, president of Merits Health Products Co. Ltd. “Our ambition is always to create best-in-class products with optimal functionality for the people who rely on them and the services that support them. The Motivation brand aligns perfectly with that mission.
“For many of the world’s poorest communities, this range represents the starting point for mobility, education, employment and opportunity. We’re honored to help ensure these products remain available. Beyond production, Merits is committed to supporting Motivation’s ongoing work in Africa and Asia to help build the systems and services that make mobility a right rather than an act of charity.”
“Hope is back on wheels,” said Mahesh Chandrasekar, director of Motivation India, said. “With the resumption of Motivation wheelchair supply through Merits, children and adults with disabilities can once again access customized wheelchairs designed for their needs. The right wheelchair is not just equipment, it’s independence, participation and possibility.”
By the time of the announcement, Merits had begun production of “many models in the Motivation product range.”
Merits Health Products is headquartered in Taichung City, Taiwan, and has American headquarters in Fort Myers, Florida.
