Southampton General Hospital launches UK first eco-phone charger vending machine

By Nicky Godding

17 October 2023

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The Business Magazine article image for: Southampton General Hospital launches UK first eco-phone charger vending machine

Southampton General Hospital nurse, Ami Froment, with the Lifesaver power bank vending machine

Southampton General Hospital has become the first in the UK to install a revolutionary new sustainable phone charger vending machine – meaning visitors, patients and staff will always be able to keep their phones charged without wasting valuable hospital resources.

The vending machines are made by British energy company, Lifesaver Power, and allow users to buy or rent a battery power bank for any smartphone - and once used, either recharge at home or return at the machine. The company also offers unlimited swaps, so if a power bank is run down, it can be exchanged for a full one at the machine.

Lifesaver describes itself as a leading provider of sustainable phone-charging services, with a focus on eco-friendly charging options, delivering ‘Power for Good’. The company is dedicated to reducing environmental impact while providing practical and efficient pre-charged power banks to individuals and institutions.

Matthew Hine, Southampton General Hospital’s Commercial Development and Enterprise Manager, said: “UHS is proud to be the first Trust to introduce Lifesaver Power into its Hospital. The ability to keep connections constant with family, friends and work whilst they are with us at UHS is critical. People do not need the extra stress of worrying if their mobile device is going to run out of charge.

“For the vast majority of us now, the world revolves around our phones – and instant access to information and communication is vital for hospital visitors, patients and staff, so we’re delighted to be the first in the country to provide the very latest in phone battery pack vending technology.”

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Archie Wilkinson, CEO of Lifesaver, says: "We are thrilled to supply Southampton Hospital with our sustainable phone charger machines. Our mission has always been to provide practical solutions that benefit both individuals and the environment. We supported over 19 hospitals during Covid but having a machine permanently in the reception means people can stay connected 24/7 with their loved ones. It’s going to be a game-changer for those visiting and operating at the hospital.”

By Nicky Godding

Nicky Godding is editor of The Business Magazine. Before her journalism career, she worked mainly in public relations moving into writing when she was invited to launch Retail Watch, a publication covering retail and real estate across Europe.

After some years of constant travelling, she tucked away her passport and concentrated on business writing, co-founding a successful regional business magazine. She has interviewed some of the UK’s most successful entrepreneurs who have built multi-million-pound businesses and reported on many science and technology firsts.

She reports on the region’s thriving business economy from start-ups, family businesses and multi-million-pound corporations, to the professionals that support their growth and the institutions that educate the next generation of business leaders.