SDI wins export award

SDI Limited, formerly Southern Dental Industries, has been named a Commendee in the Large Advanced Manufacturer Award category in the 2002 Governor of Victoria Export Awards.

The award recognizes the significant role SDI plays in exporting products from Victoria, with approximately 95% of the products SDI manufactures being shipped overseas.

According to the company, a dramatic increase in public demand for tooth bleaching encouraged the developed of the POLA range of tooth whitening products, which is now so successful, it already has a significant market share in North America, South America and Europe.

All of the Company's products are manufactured in Victoria and marketed through distributors and retailers in over 80 countries. SDI also has its own offices and warehouses in Chicago, USA; Cologne, Germany; and Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Significant investment in new product research and development ensures that SDI's products reflect a combination of innovation and excellence, and provide the ideal restorative materials for the dental profession.

SDI's commitment to the highest manufacturing standards is reflected in an ISO 9001 rating awarded for manufacturing precision and compliance with the most stringent international production requirements.

SDI also announced a 53% increase in Net Profit after Tax to $1.76m for the six months to 31 December 2002 ($1.15m in 2001). Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) were up by 41% to $2.57m ($1.83m) on the corresponding period of 2001. The result was achieved on sales of $16.66m ($14.59m) which represents an increase of 14.1% over the prior corresponding period.

Earnings per Share at 7.5 cents (with no substantial change in shares on issue) also rose by 53%. The Board declared an interim dividend of 3 cents (2002: 2 cents) representing a 50% increase in dividend. The dividend will be fully franked and will be paid on 12 May 2003.