Founded in 1972, SDI Limited is a manufacturer and supplier of specialist dental materials. 

SDI’s tooth fillings, tooth whitening products and dental equipment are used in over 100 countries. Its Pola tooth whitening system is the market leader in the UK, number two in continental Europe and number three in the USA.

The ASX-listed company undertakes substantial research and development to create technologically advanced products that offer high fluoride release to strengthen and extend the longevity of teeth. For example, its Riva Star product – a tooth desensitising agent and cavity cleanser – helps re-mineralise decayed teeth. This minimises the amount of tooth that needs to be cut out and preserves healthy tooth structure.

All SDI products are researched and developed in Australia. Except for one dental implement, all dental materials and equipment are produced at its global manufacturing centre in Bayswater, Victoria. 

SDI began exporting a year after its establishment. Today, more than 90 per cent of its sales are from exports. It has fully owned subsidiaries in the USA, Germany, Brazil, Ireland and New Zealand, and employs sales teams in Austria, Canada, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom. SDI also has distributors and dealer networks in high-growth markets such as Africa and the Middle East, building a solid base for expansion.

The judges commented it was good to see SDI diversifying into new markets and investing back into R&D. They added that employing dedicated staff in key areas of the business ensures new products are innovative, regularly released and find a place in the market.