Sunderland firm builds a bridge to the future

One Sunderland business is getting its teeth into expansion with then opening of a new lab.
Coun Harry Trueman and Ashford's Sean Thompson offically open the new lab.Coun Harry Trueman and Ashford's Sean Thompson offically open the new lab.
Coun Harry Trueman and Ashford's Sean Thompson offically open the new lab.

Ashford Orthodontics has swapped its former home in Sunnside for a new bast in Southwick to cope with increased demand.

The firm manufactures bespoke orthodontic appliances and has an extensive client base both nationally and internationally. Clinicians as far afield as The Netherlands, Belgium, Australia and New Zealand are able to place orders using the latest digital technology.

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Sunderland City Council deputy leader Coun Harry Trueman performed the honours at an official opening ceremony for the new lab, which is fully equipped with the latest orthodontic equipment and software, enabling the use of 3D-printing and scanning to produce appliances.

Director Sean Thompson said: “We are a proud Sunderland firm and we are delighted to have the opportunity to showcase our unique offer to Coun Trueman and many other guests who joined us to celebrate our move, and thank him for performing our official opening.

“The new laboratory not only provides us with a new home for our growing business, but it also opens up the potential for further development.

“We have almost doubled in size since 2014, and with sustained year-on- year growth, we aim to take on more staff during 2016 and increase production.

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“We have a highly-skilled team and continue to grow our numbers, recently recruiting four talented and enthusiastic apprentices from Sunderland College.”

Ashford has enjoyed continuous growth since its creation 15 years ago. The company recruited eight new employees last year and plans to recruit a further ten members by the end of 2016.

“It is wonderful to be able to support a genuine Sunderland success story and celebrate their status as leaders in their field,” said Coun Trueman.

“Ashford Orthodontics is operating at the cutting edge of its industry and providing high-quality skilled jobs for Sunderland people. The firm’s commitment to employing young people should also be applauded, with a talented team of apprentices ensuring it is fit for the future.

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“This investment in a new Sunderland facility is another demonstrable commitment to Sunderland, and we are absolutely delighted to have such a pioneering company flying the flag for our city on a global scale.”

The new laboratory is five times the size of the firm’s previous city centre headquarters and is equipped with a training and learning facility which plays host to a variety of courses on specialist services for delegates from across the UK.

“We have worked hard to build a strong reputation for specialised orthodontic technical services but we also pride ourselves on customer service and quality that is second to none,” said Sean.

“Our mix of experienced employees helping guide our keen young apprentices helps make Ashford one of the most progressive orthodontic laboratories in the country.”