A Bradford firm has become a global player in the supply of specialist dental products since it was started 16 years ago.

Ortho-Care, based in Oxford Place, sells orthodontic equipment to firms and dental practices throughout Europe, the Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates.

Exports have risen dramatically over the past few years along with increased orders in the UK.

The firm, which was started by owner-directors Richard Garford and Kelvin Scott at Drummond Mills, Manningham, has doubled its staff to nearly 30 in the last seven years and also doubled its turnover.

The firm, which provides a gym, solarium and steam room for its employees, has just won the prestigious Investors in People award.

It also distributes its goods throughout the UK, and believes its success is based on staff training and development.

Shelley Tasker, operations director, said today: "We have seen sales rise by a substantial amount through the training and development of staff.

"We have an excellent retention record with our customers and get good feedback from exhibitions we attend - which we put down to good customer service."

Over the last few years the firm has increased its sales team and set up a telesales section, expanding its customer base.

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