Farewell to industry identity after 25 years

The successful staging of the inaugural Australian Dental Expo (ADX) in Melbourne also marked the end of an era with the retirement of well-known industry identity and ADIA past president, Keith Mentiplay, who retired after more than 21 years as A-dec Australia's General Manager.

Mr Mentiplay was regarded as one of the industry's gentlemen, known for his soft-spoken manner, concern for people and belief in his company's product.

Joining A-dec in 1981 as its sole representative in Australia, he spent a total of 25 years with the company. When he first took up the role, Mr Mentiplay worked out of a small terrace house in inner Sydney which he shared with boxes of dental equipment which he took on the road.

In 1984 he took on the role of General Manager of A-dec Australia with responsibility for a showroom, warehouse and all of A-dec's activities in Australia, New Zealand, and a number of Pacific island nations.

"One thing I will remember is how much I enjoyed dealing with our customers and the dental profession in Australia," Mr Mentiplay said. "When you look around A-dec and the industry generally, you see lots of familiar faces who have made a lifelong career of the profession.

"I've had the satisfaction of watching A-dec Australia grow and prosper and was later joined by some great staff who shared my enthusiasm for the company and what it stands for.

"In terms of that, A-dec really is a unique company. Not only is its equipment absolutely first class in quality, features and innovation and practically sells itself, but the 'A-dec way' permeates our business relationships and the way we value our suppliers and staff."

A-dec spokesperson, Hank Poertner from A-dec's US headquarters said sales had grown significantly under Mr Mentiplay's guidance and direction, with A-dec Australia emerging as a leader among A-dec International's markets.

"In his soft spoken, gentleman's-style, Keith used his people skills and business wisdom to elevate A-dec Australia to a position of prominence, great respect, and admiration by colleagues and competitors alike. Keith has earned many accolades; one is that he has given so much to A-dec and its people and to the dental industry."