A group of Intertek Group Plc investors is urging the product-testing company to engage with private equity firm EQT AB, according to sources familiar with the matter.

This push comes after EQT, a Swedish private equity firm, made a $12 billion bid for Intertek earlier this year. The move has sparked speculation about the future of the UK-based company, which provides testing and certification services to industries like automotive and aerospace. Investors appear to believe EQT’s offer aligns with Intertek’s long-term growth potential, particularly as the company expands its digital testing capabilities. EQT’s bid represents one of the largest deals in the UK’s testing sector in recent years.

Intertek’s market position is bolstered by its reputation for rigorous product safety standards, a key factor in attracting high-profile clients. The $12 billion valuation reflects EQT’s confidence in Intertek’s ability to navigate regulatory changes and digital transformation trends. If EQT’s talks move forward, they could reshape the competitive landscape for testing firms in Europe, particularly by consolidating resources across sectors.

The outcome of these negotiations will determine whether Intertek’s management chooses to partner with EQT or pursue an alternative offer. Either way, the discussions underscore investor appetite for growth-oriented private equity investments in traditionally regulated industries.