Our story from 5 decades in business
Back in 1976 James Callaghan was UK prime minister, Rocky first hit the big screen and ABBA had the best selling album. It was also the year Kays Medical began trading, marking the start of a journey that now spans five decades in business.
1976 – The story begins
Kays Medical was founded in 1976 by David and Joyce Ludzker. Originally operating as high‑street pharmacists, they quickly identified an opportunity within Liverpool’s thriving maritime industry. With merchant vessels regularly docking in the city as part of global trade routes, Kays Medical began supplying and restocking onboard first aid equipment – ensuring ships were fully stocked with essential medical supplies for months at sea.
Our first home on Shaw Street
As the business grew we settled into a permanent office space in Liverpool city centre. From here the business continued to grow, expanding our range with new products and brands to better serve our customers. We also introduced first aid training as a service, delivering regular courses for local businesses using our in‑house trainers and our Shaw Street headquarters.
The portfolio grows
Through a series of strategic acquisitions and new product launches, Kays Medical evolved beyond distribution and into manufacturing. Today, we design, own, and manufacture products used by thousands of businesses worldwide. Our portfolio includes market‑leading brands such as Response, ResponseBeta, C‑Gel, and Blue Lion – each recognised as a leader in its respective category.
Occupational Health completes the service offering
In response to growing customer demand, we launched occupational health services as the final addition to our healthcare services division. Today, Kays Medical manages occupational health contracts for enterprise‑level organisations and public sector bodies, delivered by a team of in‑house nurses and technicians supported by a fleet of mobile health surveillance units. Beyond statutory compliance, employee health and wellbeing has become an increasingly critical priority in the modern workplace.
Today – The home of workplace health
In 2017, we moved into our purpose‑built headquarters in Speke, featuring a 35,000 sq ft warehouse. Still family owned and proudly based in Liverpool, Kays Medical is now entering its next phase of growth. Our diverse portfolio of products, alongside workplace training and occupational health services, uniquely positions us as a single, trusted partner for all workplace health needs.