FRIO UK Wins National Industry Award for Diabetes Innovation

One of our clients, Pembrokeshire based manufacturer FRIO UK, has been nationally honoured for its innovative work creating patented insulin cooling products used by people with diabetes.

National trade body, the Outdoor Industries Association, has named the company’s Viva Zipper Wallet which keeps insulin at a safe temperature for days, its UK Product of the Year at its UK Outdoor Industry Awards.

Established in 1996, FRIO products are aimed at the estimated 1 in 16 people in the UK with diabetes and exports to over 70 countries.

Activated by immersing in water, the FRIO Viva Wallet features the company’s crystal technology and keeps insulin, anaphylactic shock pens and other temperature sensitive medication cool for days.

The family-run business, maker of the world’s first patented insulin cooling wallet for diabetics, diversified into the outdoor and leisure market last year, launching its Viva Zipper wallet and related sports and leisure products at the Outdoor Trade Show in Coventry in September.

Judges, which included specialist outdoor retailers and journalists, voted for the winners of each of ten categories which included, accessories, backpacks/travel luggage, camping equipment, climbing equipment, clothing, digital product, family product, footwear, sleeping and tents. Winners were announced at the OIA’s trade conference gala dinner in Harrogate.

FRIO UK’s Viva wallet beat three other products to be crowned Best Accessory before picking up the overall Product of the Year award.

Karen Munn, Director of FRIO UK, based in Wolfscastle, said: “It as a huge honour for us to be recognised by the outdoor industry’s trade association and to the UK’s top outdoor product award is incredible.

Our aim is always to give people with diabetes the freedom and access to enjoy outdoor pursuits by keeping their vital insulin supplies cool and safe. This award spurs us on to keep developing new products for people with diabetes.”

Judges Candy Evans, Rosie Fuller and Phoebe Smith were impressed with the Viva Zipper wallet for its ability to give everyone access to the great outdoors.

Candy Evans, test editor for the Camping and Caravanning Club magazine, said: “Much of what I do is about promoting the outdoors for everyone, regardless of age, creed or ability. It seems to me the Frio Wallet is a simple device that can make ‘getting outside’ that bit easier for those who rely on temperature-sensitive medication, which must be a good thing!”

Rosie Fuller, Editor of Adventure Travel, said: “A great product for helping make the outdoors more accessible to more people.”

Phoebe Smith, Editor of Wanderlust, said: “It’s a simple idea but will make such a huge difference in walking, travel and adventure for those who need vital medication to be kept cool. Anything that makes the outdoors more inclusive for everyone gets my vote!”

Finalists showcased their products at The Telegraph Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show at the ExCeL centre London in February this year. Consumers voted for their favourite products online and in person at the show.

As well as the Zipper Viva Wallet, FRIO UK’s product range includes insulin-cooling wallets, drinks coolers, a medical and cosmetics cooling wrap, a migraine soother head band, and cooling sports bands for head, neck, ankles and wrists.