SGS SA stands as the world’s largest testing, inspection, and certification company. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the company operates across 115 countries through a network of laboratories and business facilities.
The company verifies product quality, ensures regulatory compliance, and provides certification services to industries ranging from agriculture to aerospace. SGS serves clients in oil and gas, consumer goods, life sciences, and industrial manufacturing.
With over 145 years in business, SGS has built its reputation on Swiss precision and reliability. The company trades on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker SGSN and ranks among the Forbes Global 2000 companies.
SGS SA History
SGS SA Co-founders
SGS SA Revenue
SGS generated CHF 6.79 billion in revenue during 2024, representing a 2.6% increase from the previous year. The company reports strong performance across its Testing and Inspection segment, which serves industries including natural resources, health, and connectivity.
SGS SA Market Cap
SGS holds a market capitalization of approximately $22.34 billion as of November 2025. This ranks the company as the 1,005th most valuable company globally. The stock trades on the SIX Swiss Exchange.
SGS SA Acquisitions
SGS has completed 97 acquisitions throughout its history, with activity concentrated in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. The company uses acquisitions to expand its geographic footprint and enter specialized testing markets.
The largest acquisition came in July 2025 when SGS purchased Applied Technical Services for $1.325 billion. ATS provides testing, inspection, calibration, and forensics services across 85 facilities in the United States. The deal positions SGS to double its North American sales by 2027.
In 2024, SGS completed 11 acquisitions as part of its Strategy 27 growth plan. Gossamer Security Solutions strengthened the Brightsight cybersecurity brand. AQM and Cromanal in Colombia expanded pharmaceutical testing capabilities in South America.
Earlier acquisitions built SGS into a diversified services company. The company operates specialized brands including Brightsight for cybersecurity evaluation, Bluesign for sustainable textile certification, Maine Pointe for supply chain consulting, and Nutrasource for nutraceutical testing. These acquisitions moved SGS beyond traditional commodity inspection into high-growth technology sectors.
SGS also makes strategic investments to enter new markets without full acquisitions. Joint ventures and partnerships in Asia, Africa, and Latin America allow the company to serve clients in regions where local knowledge proves essential. This approach mirrors strategies used by Swiss companies like ABB and LafargeHolcim to expand globally while managing risk.
SGS SA Competitors
SGS competes in the testing, inspection, and certification market valued at over $239 billion globally. The top five players, including SGS, control approximately 10-15% of total market share. Competition centers on service quality, geographic coverage, and specialized expertise.
| Company | Headquarters | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Bureau Veritas | France | Marine, Construction, Certification |
| Intertek Group | United Kingdom | Consumer Goods, Food Safety |
| TUV SUD | Germany | Automotive, Industrial Safety |
| TUV Rheinland | Germany | Product Certification, Cybersecurity |
| Eurofins Scientific | Luxembourg | Food Testing, Pharmaceuticals |
| DEKRA | Germany | Vehicle Inspection, Claims |
| DNV | Norway | Maritime, Energy, Healthcare |
| Applus+ | Spain | Automotive, Laboratories |
| ALS Limited | Australia | Environmental, Geochemistry |
| BSI Group | United Kingdom | Standards, Management Systems |
FAQs
What does SGS stand for?
SGS stands for Société Générale de Surveillance, which translates to General Society of Surveillance. The company adopted this French name in 1919.
Where is SGS SA headquartered?
SGS SA is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The company moved its headquarters from Paris to Geneva in 1915 during World War I.
What services does SGS provide?
SGS provides testing, inspection, verification, and certification services. The company helps businesses ensure product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance across industries.
How many employees work at SGS?
SGS employs approximately 99,500 people worldwide. These professionals operate across 2,600 offices and laboratories in 115 countries.
Is SGS a publicly traded company?
Yes, SGS trades on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN. The company went public in 1981 and ranks among the Forbes Global 2000.