A point of reference in a changing world
SGS continues to grow and lead in a highly fragmented Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) market, where our global reach and trusted expertise set us apart. Our scale across 115 countries, combined with our depth and independence, enables customers to act with confidence in moments of complexity. When organizations face uncertainty, they turn to SGS. I am proud of the progress we have made since the launch of the Strategy 27 acceleration program. We have strengthened our position as the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We reinforced SGS’s governance, internal controls and compensation frameworks. The progress we delivered in 2025 is a testament to the strength of Strategy 27: Accelerating growth, building trust.
2025 was marked by uncertainty and rapid change, from unprecedented tariffs to renewed geopolitical tensions and persistent supply chain disruption. Yet SGS advanced with discipline and clarity, supporting our clients as they navigated this shifting landscape. I would like to begin by thanking our colleagues around the world for their professionalism and commitment.
Growing consumer awareness
This year saw rising consumer demand for transparency, ethical sourcing and verifiable credentials. From water safety to food origins, consumers expect proof of responsible practices. Clients likewise seek verified sustainability claims and transparent value chains, where SGS provides trusted, independent assurance.
Meanwhile, rapid AI adoption is reshaping risk landscapes and driving demand for digital assurance. SGS is building leadership, highlighted by delivering the world’s first AI-safety certification for the automotive sector, aligned with the new international framework. This milestone demonstrates how we help organizations embed safe, transparent AI practices as they embrace emerging technologies.
Strengthening governance and Board leadership
The Board focused on strengthening governance, succession planning and ensuring strategic continuity. We welcomed Géraldine Picaud and Patrick Kron, adding international experience and industry insight. Géraldine’s election reinforces collaboration between the Executive Committee and Board as we advance Strategy 27 and drive cultural transformation toward growth, agility and financial strength.
We also relocated our headquarters to Baar, Switzerland, creating a more efficient, collaborative environment aligned with Strategy 27. Our Committees strengthened risk oversight across financial, operational, and sustainability areas, underscoring our commitment to transparency and responsible value creation.
Supporting Strategy 27 and long-term growth
The Board remained closely engaged in the execution of Strategy 27, which provides clear directions for strengthening performance, driving growth and reinforcing our financial, service and sustainability profile. We actively supported the acquisition strategy in adding a series of targeted bolt-on acquisitions designed to expand service capabilities and strengthen market positions. The announcement of the acquisition of ATS was an important step toward strengthening our position in the US and driving our ambitions forward. The Board also ensured that executive pay incentives were closely tied to the strategic priorities, reinforcing accountability for growth and operational excellence. We maintained vigilant oversight of both financial metrics and non-financial ratings to safeguard long-term resilience and stakeholder trust. All in all, we are proud to say that we are ahead of plan to reach our targets of Strategy 27.
Looking ahead with confidence
I feel very fortunate to have been a part of this great company for the past seven years, and to have had the opportunity to work alongside such exceptional people. While I will be leaving SGS soon, I am confident that the Company is in excellent hands. With Gilbert Ghostine to be proposed as the new Chair of the Board of Directors and Géraldine Picaud as CEO, SGS is being led into the future by a strong and highly experienced team.
I would like to thank our employees, the Executive Committee, our shareholders and partners for their continued trust and support over the years. Guided by our brand promise – when you need to be sure – SGS will continue to accelerate growth, build trust and create long-term sustainable value.
Calvin Grieder
Chairman of the Board