Ian Sparks, CEO of SOCOTEC in the UK, commented: "It is important that our UK operations reflect the ambition and vision of the wider SOCOTEC Group, who share our drive for ambitious growth through a client-driven strategy, that is why we have adopted the SOCOTEC name and identity.

"With SOCOTEC global footprint, we will be able to provide a wider geographic offering, and also an even broader technical service provision, while still delivering the high level of service and commitment that our clients have come to expect from us."

In France, where the SOCOTEC Group leads in construction inspection and in verification of in-service facilities, the group is continuing to build new momentum for its activities.

In the UK, the group's second European platform, SOCOTEC UK generated 2016 revenue of €110 million (US$130 million) and employs 1,400 people from its services in the infrastructure & energy and environment & safety sectors. The company operates 28 sites in the UK and Ireland, including 20 UKAS-accredited testing and measurement laboratories.

In Germany, where the group was already present through Canzler Ingenieure, SOCOTEC strengthened its position in 2017 by acquiring Pielok Marquardt in May and ZPP Ingenieure at the end of September. Germany is now SOCOTEC's third European platform, with revenue of close to €40 million.