SOCOTEC

Global provider in inspection, certification, and testing services (“TIC”), ensuring safety and quality across industries.

  • Sector Business Services
  • Ownership Majority
  • Turnover EUR 1600 M (2024)
  • Date of acquisition 02/2013

SOCOTEC is a provider of testing, inspection, certification, and compliance (“TICC”) services with a mission to ensure the integrity of assets and the safety of people. It offers a wide range of inspection, measurement, testing, consultancy, certification, and training services, with a strong focus on the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Leading Player in TICC

Formed from Bureau Sécuritas which was historically France’s leading building inspection organization, SOCOTEC was established in 1953. Over its +70 year history the company has expanded its expertise beyond safety to include technical inspection, risk management, compliance & environmental, services across various industries, serving 250,000 clients in 27 countries worldwide.

Successful Diversification through Acquisitions

SOCOTEC’s M&A strategy across 7 platform countries in France, Germany, the UK, Spain, the Netherlands, Italy, and the USA has been instrumental in diversifying its service offerings and expanding its global presence. By acquiring established companies with deep local expertise in critical sectors such as infrastructure, construction, and environmental services, SOCOTEC has been able to integrate new capabilities and develop a more comprehensive suite of solutions.

Green Trust: Supporting Energy and Environmental Transitions

SOCOTEC has also positioned itself as a key player in the energy and environmental transition of buildings and infrastructure. Its Green Trust services support clients in their energy, environmental, and sustainability transitions by providing expert guidance on reducing environmental impact and enhancing energy efficiency across buildings, installations, equipment, and infrastructure. Aligned with the six environmental objectives of the European Taxonomy—ranging from climate change mitigation to biodiversity protection—Green Trust offers independent audits, assessments, and advisory services to ensure compliance with evolving regulations and industry standards.

Majority Shareholder

Cobepa acquired a majority stake in the group through an LBO in February 2013 alongside the fund Five Arrows Principal Investments (FAPI) and management and employees. In 2019, CD&R entered the capital replacing FAPI. In 2024, Bpifrance and Mubadala also joined as minority investors.

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