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SGS Acquires AG Research Associates, USA

Ad Hoc AnnouncementsAcquisitionsMay 20, 2011

SGS is pleased to announce the acquisition of AG Research Associates LLC (ARA) in Georgia, USA.

ARA is a leading Contract Research Organisation for both registration and R&D of new agrochemicals and seeds.

It conducts bio-efficacy and GMO efficacy trials, provides regulatory science guidance and recommendations for defence, development, and registration of new agricultural products. ARA operates through a network of research stations in Georgia, California, Nebraska, Michigan and Texas.

Founded ten years ago and privately owned, ARA employs 30 highly qualified staff. In 2010, it generated revenues in excess of US$ 5 million.

"This acquisition allows SGS to penetrate new geographies in the US market. Now we are the clear leader in agricultural research activities and are now in a position to offer a very strong and unique "one-stop-shop" service offering to our customers" commented Chris Kirk, CEO of SGS, "Agricultural field research is a corner stone in our strategy to move our Agricultural Services into higher value-added services."

Other Recent Transactions:

SGS has acquired the Air Emission division of Kema, The Netherlands

SGS recently acquired the business and related assets of Kema's air emission division, providing specialist services in air monitoring and odor investigations. Activities include field work, sampling, on-site measurements, laboratory analysis, expert research and independent advice.

The business operates with two staff and relies on numerous consultants and experts. 2010 revenues were in excess of EUR 600'000. The business will be integrated into the existing Benelux structure, comprising of more than 80 emission specialists.

SGS has acquired the Oil & Gas measurement assurance business of Total Measurement Services, USA

SGS recently acquired the oil & gas measurement assurance business and its assets, formerly run by Total Measurement Services, L.L.C. The company is highly regarded in the areas of oil & gas measurement equipment calibration and in-shop proving, repair and installation . In addition, TMS offers a broad range of sampling device sales, repair and installation. With a team of 9 highly skilled field technicians serving the Oil &, Gas industry, the company generated revenues in excess of US$1 million in 2010.

This transaction provides a platform for further development of SGS Upstream services offshore and onshore in USA.

For further information, please contact:

Jean-Luc de Buman
Corporate Development,
Communications & IR
SGS SA
1 place des Alpes
CH - 1211 Geneva 1
t: (+41-22) 739 95 93
f: (+41-22) 739 98 61

About SGS

The SGS Group is the global leader and innovator in inspection, verification, testing and certification services. Founded in 1878, SGS is recognised as the global benchmark in quality and integrity. With more than 64'000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 1'250 offices and laboratories around the world.

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