Dental technology company makeO, based in Mumbai, has entered into an agreement to acquire the Singapore-based oral care brand Zenyum. This move is expected to position makeO and its clear aligner brand toothsi as significant players across the Asian market in orthodontics and oral care. The details of the acquisition have not been disclosed publicly, and the deal is still awaiting regulatory approval and completion of standard requirements.
Once the acquisition is finalized, Zenyum will become a subsidiary of makeO, with the combined group’s headquarters situated in Mumbai. Despite this, Zenyum will maintain its operations in Southeast and North Asia from its current base in Singapore. Leadership is set to remain stable, with Arpi Mehta, cofounder of makeO, continuing as group CEO and Julian Artopé, Zenyum’s cofounder, retaining his role as Zenyum’s CEO. The companies plan to operate in ten countries, including major markets such as India, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
This deal is being described by both companies as a merger of equals, given their similar revenues and differing geographic strengths. The structure will see Zenyum merging into makeO’s Indian holding company. Both brands and their operations are expected to continue separately but coordinated under one group. Management hopes that combining their resources will yield efficiencies in supply chains and pricing, as well as faster delivery times and better financing options for patients. They also aim to integrate software tools and clinical expertise to improve treatment outcomes and expand product offerings.
Currently, makeO has a network of more than 60 dental centers across India and recently turned EBITDA positive, according to company statements. The firm, which has backing from notable investors and public figures, has also announced plans to double the number of its dental centers and explore selective partnerships and acquisitions to strengthen its distribution in key Asian markets. The combined group expects to leverage economies of scale, bringing together over 1,100 partner doctors and an expanded patient base.
Elsewhere in the clear aligner industry, Align Technology reported a successful fourth quarter, with growth in aligner volumes in Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific, as well as rising revenue from dental service organizations in the Americas. The company pointed to product innovation and targeted marketing as important factors behind these gains. As competition intensifies across global markets, consolidation and innovation are becoming central themes in the clear aligner industry, suggesting further expansion and developments in the near future.
Tags: orthodontics