Bristol-based Oasis Healthcare, Britain’s biggest independent dentist, has been bought by private equity group Bridgepoint for £185m from buy-out firm Duke Street.
Oasis, founded in 1996, operates more than 200 dental practices in England, Wales and Northern Ireland employing 2,000 staff including 800 dentists. It provides services to private and NHS patients.
Bridgepoint said it would provide funding of £60m to help the business expand its presence in the UK dental market, estimated to be worth £7bn.
Oasis chief executive Justin Ash said: “We will be strongly positioned for further profitable expansion. We have a successful track record of acquisitions and new openings, and plan ongoing and rapid expansion”.
Duke Street, which acquired the business for £77m in 2007, will retain a minority stake in the business.
