Swiss giant SGS acquires CertX in digital trust push
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND — The global testing and certification company SGS has acquired CertX, a Swiss specialist in cybersecurity, AI, and functional safety certification.
Financial terms of the deal remain confidential.
Strategic expansion
The acquisition aligns with SGS’s Strategy 27, targeting an ambitious CHF 200 million (USD 222 million) in incremental revenue from Digital Trust services by 2027.
CertX, established in 2018 as a University of Fribourg spin-off, brings valuable expertise with its 10-member team of highly skilled professionals. The move comes as CertX experiences strong double-digit revenue growth, driven by increasing demand for digital technology compliance services.
Global reach and expertise
SGS’s extensive global network encompasses 2,700 laboratories and facilities across 119 countries, employing 99,250 professionals. The Geneva-headquartered company leverages its Swiss precision heritage through specialized brands including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe, and Nutrasource.
To help businesses operate more efficiently and effectively, SGS offers a range of outsourcing services, such as IT services, 24/7 operations support for the SGS network, and back office operations, including Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO).
CertX stands out as the first Swiss Certification Body for Functional Safety and Cyber Security with Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS) accreditation and international validity. Their services include:
- Certification and evaluation for personnel, products, and management systems
- Staff training in functional safety and security standards
- Standards development for automated systems and autonomous mobility
The acquisition positions both companies for expansion in North America and Europe, strengthening SGS’s global Digital Trust portfolio while maintaining their commitment to quality, safety, and compliance standards.
