Innovate Case Study: Balcondry - Revolutionising the Way We Dry Clothes

Client: Chris Moss
Industry: Home and Travel Accessories
www.balcondry.co.uk

Overview

Balcondry is a unique, easy-to-use, multi-functional clothes dryer designed for use at home or while travelling. The product stands out due to its innovative design that addresses the common challenges faced with traditional clothes drying solutions. With a full UK patent, registered design, and trademark protection, Balcondry is now available across several prominent retail outlets, including The Range, Trago Mills, and Prima Leisure, as well as online platforms like eBay and Caravan & Motorhome Club.

Challenge

The inspiration for Balcondry was sparked during a stay in Majorca, where Chris, the inventor, noticed the need for more convenient clothes-drying options for travellers. Traditional clothes dryers were bulky, difficult to store, and often made from low-quality materials. The alternative options were either permanently fixed, taking up valuable space, or not fit for modern living spaces, especially in travel scenarios like staying in hotels or apartments with balconies.

Chris envisioned a solution that would be portable, easy to use, and sustainable, addressing the need for a high-quality, space-saving clothes dryer suitable for both home and travel use.

Solution

Chris approached Innovate Design, a leading product design consultancy, to bring the idea to life. Innovate provided expert guidance through every stage of the product development process, from initial concept visualisation to patent filing. The team at Innovate helped refine the initial design, incorporating practical features like strong suction cups and wash lines, which made the product versatile and easy to use.

The development of Balcondry required identifying a manufacturing partner capable of meeting the high standards necessary for the product. After an extensive search, a manufacturer in Malta was selected for their expertise in producing eco-friendly products using recycled materials. This collaboration ensured that Balcondry was not only sustainable but also benefited from a reliable supply chain with efficient production and shipping processes.

Results

Balcondry successfully launched and is now available in multiple retail outlets and online platforms. The product has been well received in the market, particularly among travellers and those with limited living space.

Key achievements include:

• Patent Granted: Balcondry is protected under a full UK patent (GB2547004).
• Retail Presence: It is available in major retail chains, including The Range, Trago Mills, and Bailey Caravans.
• Sustainable Manufacturing: Produced in Malta using recycled plastic, with robust and high-quality suction cups.

Client Experience

Innovate provided advice and design expertise to help develop the design from an initial sketch to a manufacture-ready product. Chris describes his experience with Innovate Design as crucial to the product’s success.

"Best move that was made when I needed to know about my new idea was to contact Innovate Design. I'm really glad I decided on professional help with an idea submission before venturing into the unknown. Innovate's advice and design expertise turned my concept into a reality, with a final design completed in just 6 weeks." Chris Moss, Balcondry founder.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Balcondry plans to expand its retail presence further into Europe. Additionally, a smaller version of the product, called "TravelDry," is in development, aimed at providing a convenient drying solution for travellers looking to save on luggage space. With registered design, patent, and trademark protection already in place, the next steps involve packaging design and production, with the same trusted manufacturer in Malta ready to bring the new product to market.