What’s been happening in the Scottish dental market so far this year?

Image: Adam Wilson for Unsplash

It’s been a busy start to the year in the Scottish dental market, with strong activity across a broad mix of practices. We’ve completed sales ranging from fully private clinics to NHS practices - not just in the Central Belt but in more rural areas, too. A good example is Anderson Dentistry, a private clinic owned by a husband-and-wife team in Aberfeldy, which was sold in February to husband‑and‑wife team, Chris and Iona Cairns, moving from one family-owned practice to another.

We’ve also handled several corporate divestments of varying sizes, reflecting the market’s breadth and the high level of buyer interest. Notably, we’re seeing a rise in first-time entrants to the market, including professionals relocating from other parts of the UK who recognise the opportunities that the Scottish market offers.

Alongside this, banks remain keen to lend, with a strong appetite for well-run practices. Importantly, we’re also seeing a growing number of lenders outside the usual big names stepping into the sector, offering highly competitive terms for independent buyers. This increased choice is giving buyers more flexibility, and in some cases, better deals, than we’ve seen in recent years.

Last year felt like a period of preparation and momentum-building; this year, that activity is translating into completions, with many more lined up. We’re also seeing renewed appetite for higher‑value, premium practices that were previously out of reach for independent buyers. As confidence returns, many who had been waiting for the market to stabilise are now re-engaging, and deals are starting to move.

EXPECTATIONS FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR

• We expect to see new corporates entering the Scottish market, as they recognise the potential that the market has to offer
• There will continue to be a rise in interest from first-time buyers who want to jump into practice ownership
• We’ll see more creative deal structures, including deferred consideration and earn-outs, as buyers look to manage risk and cash flow
• There will be a greater focus on mixed practices, as operators seek to balance NHS and private income streams for stability
• Continued strong lending conditions, with more alternative banks and specialist lenders offering competitive terms for independents

To find out more about the Scottish dental market, contact Joel Mannix: joel.mannix@christie.com / +44 7764 241 691