As the biggest event on the dentistry calendar, the BDTA Dental Showcase 2011 was the place to be this October, with thousands of delegates in attendance over the course of the three-day event.

The highlight of any Showcase is always the Friday night, and this year's event was no exception. Held in the luxurious surrounds of the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel, Friday 21st October saw the launch of the CODE Buying Group – an expansion of the CODE association designed to leverage the very best deals for dental practices.

With tribute band The Beatlez playing a selection of the Fab Four's classic hits, the CODE Buying Group launch party was an evening packed full of fun and celebration, and included a complimentary buffet with drinks.

Paul Mendlesohn, Chief Executive of CODE opens with a speech

That major competitive rivals 3M and DENTSPLY could stand united on the stage together in support of the CODE Buying Group is major testament to the strength and support that the Buying Group has managed to accrue. As Paul Mendlesohn was keen to remind the assembled guests, the UK dental industry is worth over a quarter of a billion pounds, with CODE member practices spending over £40 million a year on consumables. By any standards, that is some considerable spending power and influence that up until now has not been harnessed to its maximum potential.

The CODE Buying Group seeks to address this issue, using its unique leverage to force down prices and give the best value possible to its members. It's an ethos that's clearly working. Since Paul Mendlesohn became Chief Executive of CODE, the association has seen a fourfold increase in membership: "CODE members represent massive buying power and influence and we are just starting to flex our muscles. If a manufacturer is not prepared to give discounts to a group with that much spending power, then CBG members have the power to simply switch products and use suppliers who will. Once we have negotiated with the main dental companies, we will start talking to energy suppliers, utilities companies, insurance, maintenance and even advertising firms."

Mike Volk of Dental Directory shows his support

In the current economic climate with increases in overheads and manufacturers' prices, along with pressure on patients' pockets, dental practices face the ever-present challenge of remaining competitive without compromising on quality.

Mary Anstice of 3M pledges their support to CODE members

In direct response to these challenges, members of the CODE Buying Group can expect (among other benefits) to receive:

• Maximum discount from The Dental Directory
• An annual cash rebate depending upon spend through the Dental Directory
• Special 'two for one' and other promotions on products
• Free and subsidised CPD
• A complete range of practice services including training on medical emergencies, surgery insurances, radiation services, equipment servicing and more

Gary Marvin of Dentsply welcomes their support of the CODE Buying Group

CODE members already have access to a wide range of management resources and benefits including CQC compliance support, tailor made patient payment plans, and expert advice designed to help the smooth and efficient running of practices. The CODE Buying Group then, is a logical expansion from CODE, and is an example of CODE's commitment to supporting the thousands of dental practice owners who bear the responsibility and face the challenges of managing a business and maintaining the highest standards of dental treatment and regulatory compliance.

The Beatlez may have been singing 'With a Little Help from My Friends', but with CODE and now the CODE Buying Group, there's more than a little help on tap.

CODE – what's not to love!

Please read more about the CODE Buying Group and sign up online here.