#United States #New York #SOCOTEC #Advance Testing #AAR Testing

SOCOTEC's Expansion Strategy

In a decisive move to enhance its offerings in construction materials testing (CMT), SOCOTEC has announced a series of strategic acquisitions and geographic expansions throughout the United States. This growth strategy focuses on solidifying its position in the market by integrating new talents and expertise into its operations. The recent acquisitions of Advance Testing Company and AAR Testing and Inspection mark a significant milestone for SOCOTEC and its future.

Strengthening the East Coast with Advance Testing

The acquisition of Advance Testing Company, based in New York, represents a critical step for SOCOTEC's expansion efforts on the East Coast. Founded in 1984, Advance Testing operates numerous accredited facilities in New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. This firm brings 150 new specialists into the fold, enhancing SOCOTEC's service capabilities significantly. The company specializes in a variety of crucial construction materials testing services, including:

• - Asphalt testing
• - Concrete and masonry analysis
• - Soil and aggregate testing
• - Steel and welding inspections

Advance Testing has built a strong reputation over the last four decades for its client satisfaction, winning 12 consecutive ACIL Customer Service Awards. By integrating Advance Testing into SOCOTEC, the company expects to boost its operational capacity in the region and support large-scale projects effectively.

Expansion into the Pacific Northwest through AAR Testing

In addition to the East Coast development, SOCOTEC has made a strategic acquisition on the West Coast by acquiring AAR Testing and Inspection, a reputable firm located in Redmond, Washington. Established in 1989, AAR Testing has set a benchmark in providing quality assurance and quality control for significant transportation infrastructure projects. It employs 115 professionals across three accredited facilities. Their strong focus on:

• - Special inspections in compliance with IBC
• - Testing of soils and aggregates
• - Non-destructive testing services

makes AAR a valuable asset for SOCOTEC as it seeks to expand its influence in the Pacific Northwest.

Establishing a Stronghold in Texas

Geographic expansion also sees SOCOTEC opening a new office in Austin, Texas. This move marks a significant enhancement of its capabilities in the region, allowing the company to provide tailored solutions to public and private clients. With now three key locations in Texas—Austin, Dallas, and Houston—SOCOTEC is poised to deliver efficient local services throughout the state while offering a complete array of soil and construction materials testing services.

A Comprehensive Infrastructure Platform

These strategic acquisitions not only add significant expertise to SOCOTEC’s team but also illustrate a clear trajectory of growth since 2019, when the company transitioned from a niche consultancy to a multi-disciplinary organization housing 1,700 professionals across over 40 offices in the U.S. The addition of these firms underlines the importance of providing integrated solutions and enhancing the overall infrastructure services platform SOCOTEC offers.

Hervé Montjotin, CEO of SOCOTEC GROUP, emphasized the critical role that the U.S. market plays in the global strategy of SOCOTEC. With its operations in the U.S. now accounting for 20% of the group’s total revenue, the company is strategically positioned for continued expansion.

Nicolas Detchepare, CEO of SOCOTEC USA, added comments regarding the importance of these acquisitions, stating that they significantly boost SOCOTEC's ability to deliver integrated solutions across key regions.

With the acquisitions of Advance Testing and AAR Testing, coupled with the new Austin office, SOCOTEC is set to further its mission of providing trusted expertise and support for some of the most complex construction and infrastructure projects across the United States.

By enriching its portfolio and expanding its geographical reach, SOCOTEC is demonstrating a robust trajectory of growth while ensuring enhanced service delivery to its clients, thus affirming its position as a leader in risk management and technical consultancy services in the built environment.