A spike in NHS hearing instrument sales and overall market growth for Q3

BIHIMA has released Q3 data on hearing technology market figures showing that hearing instrument sales have increased since Q2.

• UK market units grow 6.5% from the year previous with a slight increase from Q2 2023
• NHS market increases by 29% since Q2 2023
• Irish market data up 7.5% over previous quarter

BIHIMA – the British Irish Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association – has released the latest Q3 2023 data on hearing instrument usage in the UK and the Republic of Ireland (ROI), showing a significant increase in NHS sales.

Following a considerable drop in sales for Q2, Q3 has revealed more promising data – both in comparison to the previous year and the last quarter. Overall, market size units in the UK have experienced a strong incline, with a 6.5% rise in private units since Q3 2022 and 1.4% over Q2 2023. The biggest change, however, is in the NHS market: volumes were up 20% over the same period in 2022 and up 29% in the last quarter.

Speaking of the increase, Paul Surridge, BIHIMA Chairman, said:

“It’s very promising to see sales rising again after a surprisingly low quarter two, especially so for the NHS product numbers. We don’t usually see such a rise at this time of year, but it’s likely that the recent completion of an NHS tender and related financial awards have enabled more movement in this area of the market.

“Any rise in hearing instrument sales is a positive thing. Hearing instrument usage has proven links to better mental health, greater job opportunities, improved sleep and potentially lower the risk of developing dementia. The more people that prioritise hearing care – and sooner – the better.”

Rechargeable hearing instrument sales have continued to edge up this quarter in the UK, whilst in the ROI they have remained at a similar level.  Despite this, ROI has experienced a 7.5% uplift across-the-board compared to the previous quarter.

“We’re happy to see an increase in Irish hearing market data because it adds to a promising landscape throughout the quarter. While we did experience an unprecedented decline last quarter, overall, the year has been strong, consistent and positive. We look forward to seeing how this develops into quarter four.” said Paul.

Download the full Q3 report here

As a voice for hearing technology, BIHIMA regularly monitors the market and releases the results of its members every quarter. To keep up to date with the latest hearing instrument market information sign up to receive BIHIMA’s quarterly results here.