Swift and safe solutions for leisure activities
PCL’s fast expanding Free Spirit range is taking the leisure industry by storm. Designed to help users save their energy for sport instead of pumping, this ground-breaking inflation equipment is receiving rave reviews across the UK.
Innovative products in the range are all low maintenance and include the Digital Bicycle Inflation & Repair Station, the Sports Ball Inflation Station and the UK’s first ever SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) Inflation Station, launched in partnership with leading SUP brand Red Paddle Co.
Designed for paddleboarding locations worldwide, the high-performance SUP Inflator takes the pain out of pumping for paddleboarders. Capable of accurately inflating a standard 3-metre-long paddleboard to 15psi in under 5 minutes, for optimum performance, the unit removes the risk of taking an under-inflated board out on to the water.
The SUP pump is simple to use with self-explanatory instructions and an easy-to-read digital backlit screen. All users need to do is connect the paddleboard to the inflator and it does the hard work for them, saving considerable time and effort so that paddleboarders remain fresh and full of energy to enjoy the activity safely.
Watch our video demonstrating how easy it is to use the SUP Inflation Station
For those installing a unit on site, the powerful onboard compressor removes the need for an air supply, the only requirement being a 240V power connection. In line with PCL’s reputation for high quality products built for longevity, the robust, stainless steel SUP inflator is designed to withstand harsh environments.
Units have already been installed at multiple locations across the UK, with public venues including Alderford Lake in Shropshire, Gwersyll Glan-Llyn in Wales and Blackpool Sands in Devon receiving excellent feedback.
The first SUP Inflation Station installed at Alderford Lake
The SUP and Bicycle inflators are both available as a free vend option or contactless card payment facilities for revenue generation.
PCL’s Business Development Manager, Claire Tonks, said: “The SUP pump in particular has been attracting a lot of attention online, with thousands of likes and comments from the public calling it a “genius” idea and a “game changer” that’s easy to use and a welcome addition to the paddleboard community.
“It’s a great investment for water sport centres, local authorities, landowners and facilities managers to offer at SUP launch locations, either as a free vend station, or with contactless card payment facilities for additional revenue generation.
“One location reported 60 uses in a week at £4 each, generating £240. Obviously, the income potential depends on location, but we would estimate that at an average location with a standard season length, 12-to-18-month payback isn't unrealistic.
“Alternatively, offering the free vend option for the SUP or Bike Inflator allows facilities to offer a complimentary inflation service to build customer loyalty or as a membership benefit.
“For those looking to enhance their outdoor offering with services providing safety, performance, convenience and value for money, the PCL Free Spirit range is proving extremely popular.
“The Bicycle Inflation Station is ideal for facilities managers to install at bicycle hire venues, visitor centres and in public outdoor areas such as parks, railway stations, supermarkets and shopping centres. It allows users to hang their bike at the side of the machine, connect the dual valve connector, and enter the desired pressure. Then the unit does the hard work of inflating the tyres for them. This means no bending down for the laborious, time-consuming task of manual pumping, and cyclists can feel sure they are setting off safely with the correct pressure in their tyres.
A demonstration of the Bicycle Inflation Station in use
“Then there’s our “plug and go” Sports Ball Inflation Station, the perfect solution for sports retailers, sports clubs and organisations using multiple balls that regularly need inflating. This digital, mobile cart was originally developed for an international designer and manufacturer of sports gear and automates the inflation of up to four sports balls at once, quickly and safely via an on-board air supply.
A demonstration of the Sports Ball Inflation Station in use
“In creating these products, we carefully considered the issues people were experiencing when inflating equipment for leisure activities, and our extensive design expertise enabled us to harness PCL’s world-beating DNA to create a high performance equipment that takes the exertion out of inflation, leaving users free to focus on safety and enjoyment.
“As a result, we have quickly established a foothold in the leisure market, developing pioneering products and building partnerships, whilst identifying further areas for development. For anyone wanting to extend their outdoor offering PCL would be delighted to offer expert advice and guidance on the best solutions to meet individual needs.”
Other PCL products suitable for outdoor locations such as visitor car parks, holiday parks and camp sites include inflation towers and the Multi-Function unit. These are ideal for offering opportunities to increase revenue through services including tyre inflation, water/screenwash, vacuum and fragrance.
