SAI Global

History and Founding

SAI Global began as a standards‑setting body, Standards Australia International, founded in 1922. In the 1990s it commercialized its certification and training activities, and in 2003 the separate entity SAI Global was formed. The company grew through private equity ownership and expanded internationally, offering not only certification but also risk management software and advisory services.

Business Model and Revenue

SAI Global generates revenue through certification audits, second-party supplier audits, training courses, and the subscription-based i2i Standards Management platform. Prior to the 2021 acquisition, the company had reached $106 million in annual revenue. The assurance division was the primary revenue driver, but the information services and software division continues to generate income through standards subscription and platform licenses.

Core Products and Platforms

i2i Standards Management is a cloud‑based platform that allows organizations to store, retrieve, and manage compliance documents, track updates, and collaborate virtually. Other key offerings include Management Systems Certification (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001), Second‑Party Audits, Food Safety Certification (GFSI‑benchmarked schemes), Aerospace Quality Certification (AS9100 series), and Training Courses on risk management and auditing. The StandardsMark logo is provided to certified customers as a mark of compliance.

Market Position and Competition

SAI Global operates in a competitive landscape alongside companies like Bureau Veritas, SGS, DNV GL, and BSI. Its strength lies in its deep roots in Australian standards and its combined technology and assurance offering. The company holds a strong position in the Asia‑Pacific region and serves clients in over 130 countries.

Acquisition by Intertek

In May 2021, Intertek acquired the Assurance division of SAI Global for an undisclosed sum, integrating it into its global assurance operations. This acquisition expanded Intertek’s certification and audit capabilities, particularly in Australia and key industry sectors. The remaining information and software business retained the SAI Global name and continues to operate independently, with a focus on standards management and compliance software.

Leadership and Workforce

In 2018, under CEO Peter Granat, the company revamped its executive team to accelerate growth and innovation, appointing a new CFO, CTO, CMO, and other leaders. Pre‑acquisition, SAI Global had approximately 2,200 employees globally. As of 2023, the workforce of the remaining SAI Global entity is around 1,600 employees. Post‑acquisition, the assurance division’s leadership is integrated into Intertek’s global structure, while SAI Global’s software business retains its own management.