Acteon, the French global player in the design, manufacture and distribution of dental equipment, imaging technologies and consumables, has been acquired by Bridgepoint Development Capital for an undisclosed sum.

Headquartered in Merignac in France, Acteon employs 750 staff across Europe, operating four manufacturing facilities. The company's portfolio of over 400 products includes a range of dental equipment such as ultrasonics and polishers, intra-oral camera and x-ray systems, surgical equipment, anaesthetic and hygiene products.

The company is a global leader in dental equipment and imaging technologies with No 1 market positions across a number of products including ultrasonic instruments and intra-oral cameras. Acteon products are sold to over 50 countries with 80% of revenues generated outside France.

Commenting on the transaction, Acteon chief executive officer Marie-Laure Pochon, said: 'Today's announcement sees the arrival of a new investor with the financial capability to support our growth ambitions as a group. The global dental equipment market is growing and our aim is for Acteon to continue to lead that by building on its reputation as innovator within its field.'

Olivier Nemsguern, partner of Bridgepoint Development Capital in France, added: 'This is an opportunity to acquire a true market leader in a fragmented dental products sector at time when spending on dental care worldwide is on the increase. Working with management, we will pursue further growth via selective add-on acquisitions and the development of Acteon's geographic reach and product capabilities. '

Debt financing for the transaction was provided by Capzanine and European Capital. Advisers involved were:

- for Bridgepoint: Lincoln International, Mayer Brown, Deloitte, LEK, Taj

- for Acteon: DC Advisory, DLA Piper