SGS acquires AG Research Associates LLC

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 defense, 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."