Ambulance Stretchers Market by Product Type (Manual Stretchers, Electric Stretchers, Hydraulic Stretchers, Bariatric Stretchers), by End-User Industry (Hospitals, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Fire Departments, Military and Defense, Clinics), by Material Type (Steel, Aluminum, Composite Materials), by Stretcher Configuration (One-Piece Stretchers, Multi-Piece Stretchers), by Application (Patient Transportation, Critical Care Transport, Emergency Response, Medical Evacuation), and by Region; Global Insights & Forecast (2023 – 2030)

As per Intent Market Research, the Ambulance Stretchers Market was valued at USD 0.9 Billion in 2024-e and will surpass USD 2.6 Billion by 2030; growing at a CAGR of 19.1% during 2025-2030.

The ambulance stretchers market is evolving as healthcare services focus on improving patient care during transportation. Ambulance stretchers, designed to ensure safe, comfortable, and efficient patient transport, have become essential tools in emergency medical services (EMS), hospitals, and other medical facilities. The growing need for reliable patient transport systems is driving market growth across the globe, especially with advancements in stretcher design and material. Additionally, the rise of specialized stretchers for bariatric patients and the increasing demand for electric and hydraulic models are reshaping the market landscape. With the ongoing developments in healthcare infrastructure, especially in emergency services, the demand for modern stretcher systems is expected to continue increasing.

Manual Stretchers Segment Is Largest Owing to Reliability and Cost-Effectiveness

In the product type segment, manual stretchers are the largest subsegment, largely due to their reliability, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness. Manual stretchers remain the most commonly used type in ambulances and hospitals across the world because of their ease of use and affordability. These stretchers are versatile, require minimal maintenance, and can be easily operated by EMS personnel. Their popularity is particularly evident in regions where healthcare budgets are constrained or where medical facilities prefer practical solutions without relying on advanced technologies.

The cost-effectiveness of manual stretchers has made them the preferred choice for many healthcare providers, especially in developing regions where investment in high-end medical equipment may be limited. Additionally, manual stretchers are commonly used in various emergency services due to their durable design and ease of maneuverability. While electric and hydraulic stretchers are gaining ground, the affordability and straightforward nature of manual stretchers continue to drive their widespread adoption globally.

Hospitals End-User Industry Is Largest Owing to High Demand for Patient Transport

The hospitals end-user industry holds the largest share in the ambulance stretchers market. Hospitals require a constant supply of stretchers for patient transportation, whether for routine movement between departments or for emergency situations. These healthcare institutions, particularly in developed regions, demand a wide range of stretchers, including electric, manual, and bariatric models, to ensure the safe and efficient transfer of patients. Hospitals cater to diverse patient needs, making them the largest consumer of stretchers, as they require multiple options to handle various medical conditions, including those requiring critical care transport.

Hospitals often operate on a tight schedule with high patient volumes, thus requiring stretchers that can support the movement of patients efficiently. With an increasing emphasis on patient care and comfort, hospitals are investing in more advanced stretcher models with features such as adjustable heights, ergonomic designs, and advanced material types that can withstand heavy use. This demand for high-quality, durable, and specialized equipment is expected to continue driving the hospital segment's growth in the ambulance stretcher market.

Steel Material Type Is Largest Due to Durability and Strength

Among the material types, steel remains the largest subsegment in the ambulance stretchers market due to its durability, strength, and long-term reliability. Steel is commonly used in the construction of both manual and electric stretchers because it can support the weight of patients and resist wear and tear. The durability of steel ensures that stretchers made from this material can endure the frequent use and rough handling associated with emergency medical services, making it an ideal choice for stretcher manufacturers. Steel stretchers are especially prevalent in hospitals and EMS applications where sturdiness is paramount.

While aluminum and composite materials are gaining traction due to their lightweight nature, steel continues to dominate because of its superior structural integrity. Steel stretchers are also favored in bariatric applications, where additional weight support is essential. The long lifespan of steel stretchers also makes them a cost-effective option for many healthcare institutions, contributing to their ongoing dominance in the market.

One-Piece Stretchers Segment Is Fastest Growing Owing to Ease of Use and Portability

The one-piece stretchers segment is the fastest-growing subsegment in the stretcher configuration category. These stretchers are becoming increasingly popular due to their ease of use, portability, and quick deployment in emergency situations. One-piece stretchers are ideal for quick patient transport, offering greater stability and simplicity in design. The streamlined nature of these stretchers allows for easy storage in ambulances and other emergency vehicles, making them highly practical for emergency medical services (EMS).

The increasing demand for mobile, lightweight equipment in fast-paced medical environments is driving the growth of one-piece stretchers. These models are also favored for their versatility, as they can be quickly adjusted and deployed, which is particularly valuable in high-pressure situations like emergency response or medical evacuation. As EMS systems worldwide focus on improving their efficiency and response times, the one-piece stretcher segment is expected to continue growing rapidly.

Patient Transportation Application Is Largest Owing to High Usage in Emergency Medical Services

In the application segment, patient transportation holds the largest share due to its critical role in emergency medical services (EMS) and hospital operations. Patient transportation involves moving patients between different departments or facilities, and stretchers play an essential role in ensuring these transfers are done safely and efficiently. Ambulances, hospitals, and other healthcare settings require high-quality stretchers for patient transport to prevent further injury and provide comfort during transit.

The demand for patient transportation equipment is particularly high in regions with large and well-established healthcare networks, where the volume of patients requiring transport is significant. This market is also growing in areas with increasing healthcare infrastructure, as countries invest more in EMS capabilities and healthcare services. With an increasing focus on patient safety, the market for stretchers designed specifically for patient transportation is expected to continue its upward trajectory.

North America Region Is Largest Owing to Advanced Healthcare Infrastructure

The North America region is the largest market for ambulance stretchers, owing to the advanced healthcare infrastructure, high demand for emergency medical services (EMS), and the presence of major stretcher manufacturers. The region's well-established healthcare system, coupled with high medical expenditure, supports the widespread adoption of advanced medical equipment, including stretchers. In particular, the United States has a large number of hospitals, EMS units, and clinics that require high-quality stretchers for patient transport, making it the dominant region for stretcher sales.

North America's aging population, increasing number of medical emergencies, and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases also contribute to the region’s continued demand for ambulance stretchers. Additionally, the region is seeing a significant rise in the adoption of high-tech stretchers such as electric and hydraulic models, which provide greater convenience and safety for both patients and medical personnel.

Leading Companies and Competitive Landscape

The ambulance stretchers market is highly competitive, with several key players driving innovation and growth. Stryker Corporation, Hill-Rom Holdings Inc., and Ferno-Washington, Inc. are among the leaders in the market, known for their high-quality stretchers and medical transport equipment. These companies focus on product innovation, developing stretcher models with advanced features such as hydraulic lifts, electric motors, and ergonomic designs to improve patient care during transport. Additionally, partnerships and collaborations with hospitals, EMS providers, and healthcare institutions are central to their market strategies.

Smaller players, such as Gendron Inc. and KLS Martin Group, also contribute to the market by offering specialized stretcher models, including bariatric and multi-piece options. With the increasing demand for bariatric and critical care transport solutions, these companies are expanding their product portfolios to meet the diverse needs of emergency medical services. As healthcare standards evolve, competition in the stretcher market is expected to intensify, with a focus on improving patient comfort, reducing response times, and ensuring better safety outcomes in patient transport.

List of Leading Companies:

• Stryker Corporation
• Hill-Rom Holdings Inc.
• Ferno-Washington, Inc.
• Medline Industries, Inc.
• Gendron Inc.
• KLS Martin Group
• Striker MedTec
• MHOX Medical
• Alvo Medical
• AMBULANCE MEDICAL PRODUCTS
• Omnilife Science, Inc.
• Zhongda Medical
• MAC Medical
• WEINMANN Emergency Medical Technology GmbH
• Medical Depot Inc. (Drive Medical)

Recent Developments:

• Stryker Corporation launched a new line of hydraulic stretchers designed to improve patient comfort and reduce manual lifting during transportation, enhancing safety and efficiency for EMS professionals.
• Hill-Rom Holdings Inc. acquired a leading manufacturer of bariatric medical equipment, strengthening its position in the growing market for specialty patient transport solutions.
• Ferno-Washington unveiled a new, lightweight, and foldable stretcher model ideal for emergency medical services and rescue operations, offering improved maneuverability and storage.
• Medline Industries, Inc. received FDA approval for its next-generation stretcher line, which includes advanced safety and ergonomic features for patient transport in critical care situations.
• Gendron Inc. announced an expansion of its product portfolio, launching a new range of multi-piece stretchers for use in military and defense applications, designed for ease of transport and durability in extreme environments.

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