Vancouver, BC – May 31, 2018 – Smile Innovations Group (SIG) has today announced, the purchase of Shanto Dental Ceramics effective June 1, 2018.

Originally founded in Vancouver, BC, in 1970, by the highly respected Master Dental Ceramist, Kumi Ito Shanahan, the laboratory was then purchased in 2004, by Hans Forssander. Two years later, he brought on Warren Dee, then Andy Hong, to support the overall operation and growth. Together, they went on to offer a long history of reputable service to practitioners across the province.

The decision to align themselves with Smile Innovations, now allows the managing partners at Shanto, to focus on the craftsmanship within their trade, the reason they entered the industry more than 40 years ago. “With the rapid advancements in digital workflows over the last decade, and as technology continues to evolve, it was critical for us to partner with a team whom could position us for further growth and maintain a competitive advantage,” notes Dee. “On a day-to-day basis however, it’s business as usual, and the only change our clients will experience, is a greater offering of products, materials, digital options and customer service.”

Support, on the operational and business aspects, will be offered by SIG, a privately held company with a successful track record in both areas. With the experience the managing team of Smile Innovations brings, especially that of the co-founders, Donald Park and Manny Padda, and, the considerable resources at hand, Shanto Dental will expand quickly. “From our initial talks with the Shanto team, it was evident that both parties shared a common business culture, and could greatly compliment one another,” says CEO, Donald Park. “Their decision to partner with us, allows Smile Innovations to support the ongoing success and future growth of their core business; I couldn’t be more pleased to work with a team so passionate about their company and what they create.”

While this acquisition is Smile Innovations Group first foray into the dental space, the company seeks to acquire and invest in successful laboratories and will continue to evaluate additional opportunities to add to their portfolio of companies.

Smile Innovations Group is a private investment company, focusing on dental laboratory acquisitions, consolidation and the development of dental products and services. Established in 2018, the management of Smile Innovations Group offers extensive experience and success in the operational management of large-scale businesses and continually seeks out additional opportunities to add to their growing portfolio of companies. It was co-founded by Manny Padda, Executive Chairman and Donald Park, CEO.