Spine of the times

Orthofix International is expanding the distribution of its spine implant and biologic devices in the UK, following an agreement signed with independent orthopedic device distributor MBA.

As Orthofix’s exclusive distributor in Spain and Portugal, MBA will now work alongside the company, which has its UK base in Berkshire, to take advantage of opportunities in the British spine market, which is ranked among the top five in Europe. The agreement will last five years, beginning on 1 May.

Alan Milinazzo, president and chief executive of Orthofix International, said: ‘MBA has been a key partner during Orthofix’s growth over the last 20 years and, after successfully expanding our relationship last year to include the distribution of our spine implant products in Spain and Portugal, we are excited to further expand our spine distribution agreement with them into the important UK market.’

Paul Griffin, MBA’s chief operating officer, added: ‘MBA’s excellent and long-standing relationship with Orthofix, together with our very successful 2008 spine launch, led to this latest agreement after the management teams from both organisations met to explore opportunities to further expand our mutually beneficial strategic partnership.’