EQT, the Swedish private‑equity firm, has agreed to acquire Intertek Group for 9.3 billion pounds in cash, valuing the U.K. testing specialist at 9.5 billion pounds when a dividend is included. The offer delivers 60 pounds per share plus a final dividend of 107.70 pence, a 38 percent premium over the 43.63‑pound close on April 15 to existing shareholders, for a record premium.

Intertek’s board, led by CEO Andre Lacroix, welcomed the proposal after rejecting three earlier offers, the first at 51.50 pounds per share. The company said it would likely endorse EQT’s final bid if formally presented, noting the partnership could accelerate growth and unlock new innovation across its global testing network for customers and partners in 2025.

EQT’s strategy centers on injecting capital into Intertek’s research and development, targeting mergers and acquisitions that expand its footprint in high‑growth regions. Matthias Wittkowski, EQT Private Equity’s Global Head of Services, said the firm is focused on “innovation and targeted M&A” to boost international expansion in its core testing and certification services worldwide for clients.

The deal sends a clear signal to the testing industry that private‑equity backing can fuel rapid scaling. With a 38 percent premium, Intertek shareholders face a lucrative exit, while the transaction positions EQT to capitalize on global demand for quality assurance and sustainability certifications across sectors ranging from pharmaceuticals to consumer electronics and 2025 growth projections.