Automated hand sanitiser inspired during Covid-19 lockdown attracts big name customers

A Mid and East Antrim business has developed an innovative solution for hand hygiene in response to the challenges of COVID-19 with the manufacture of an automated dispensing station.

The unique product developed by Ballymena based 4 Leaf Exhibitions, eliminates the need for hand contact when dispensing hand sanitising products and, true to the company’s ethos of creating bespoke solutions for clients, this product can also be branded to individual requirements.

The new system eliminates the need for hand contact when dispensing hand sanitising products.

The firm traditionally services the conference and events industry and also the tourism and leisure sectors. However, in response to the challenge of the pandemic the business successfully diversified their manufacturing activities to develop this automated hygiene solution for use in offices, retail and the commercial sector.

Gregory Kennedy, founder, pictured prior to lockdown with TV presenter George Clarke, explained how the concept came about:

“With our serviceable customer base declining overnight we decided to focus our efforts on responding to the challenge of hand hygiene. With so many shared services harbouring germs we decided to concentrate on creating a solution so that people don’t have to pick up or touch a sanitiser bottle, reducing unnecessary contact. This product is one of seven free standing solutions we have in the market place, helping to make our workplaces safer."

The sanitising stations have been manufactured from durable and robust aluminium, however, despite their robustness they are easily transportable as they come with a specially designed carrying handle to allow for ease of movement.

4 Leaf Exhibitions is working in partnership with Lamont Cleaning and Support Services to provide an all in one sanitising solution.

Since the launch of the products in April, the business has experienced huge success in securing new customers from across the UK and Ireland.

Over 350 units have already been distributed, with some already installed in prestigious venues based in Northern Ireland, including Lough Erne Resort, Beannchor Group and Royal Country Down Golf Club.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Cllr Peter Johnston, said: “4 Leaf Exhibitions Limited has worked closely with Council’s Business Support Programmes. This is an excellent example of a local company using their existing skills and knowledge to diversify during this challenging time bringing a new, innovative product to market that is helping to make workplaces safer."