Scottish Borders orthodontic practice sold after 18 years

The first specialist orthodontic practice in the Scottish Borders has been sold after the founding owner retired.

Borders Orthodontics in Galashiels was established in 2008 by Robert Irvine and is a three-surgery, mixed-income practice with around 725 patients.

It sits within the main commercial district of central Galashiels, to the west of the River Tweed and had operated with an emphasis on digitalisation.

Irvine decided to sell to pass on the reins of practice management, and he will remain working at the practice clinically post sale.

Following a confidential sales process with Kevin Strain at Christie & Co, the practice has been purchased by first-time buyer, Ahmed Abdullah.

Irvine said: “I am delighted to see Borders Orthodontics find such a deserving new owner.

“After many years of dedication and care, I feel confident that the practice will thrive under Ahmed’s leadership and I wish him every success as he takes the practice into its next chapter.”

Abdullah adds: “Since its establishment in 2008, Robert has built an outstanding reputation for clinical excellence and patient-centred care and I am grateful for the strong foundations he has created. My commitment is not only to maintain those high standards, but to build upon them by continuing to invest in modern orthodontic techniques, advanced technology, and an exceptional patient experience.

“I look forward to supporting our existing patients and welcoming new families to the practice as we begin this exciting next chapter.”

Strain, senior business agent for dental at Christie & Co, said the deal was ‘another clear example of the strength of the Scottish dental market, particularly for specialist-led practices’.

He added: “High-quality orthodontic businesses continue to attract significant interest from a wide range of motivated buyers from across the UK, with multiple offers received at the closing date.”

Borders Orthodontics was sold for an undisclosed price.