Tue, 09 Sep 2025 | BUSINESS SALE
SOCOTEC UK and Ireland has expanded its infrastructure capabilities with the acquisition of a Belfast-based company specialising in foundation testing, structural monitoring, geotechnical and environmental systems.
Lloyds Datum Group (LDG), which has more than 25 years’ experience, comprises Lloyd Acoustics Ltd and Datum Monitoring Ireland Ltd and has key areas of expertise in micro piling and anchoring contracting.
LDG’s expertise is expected to expand SOCOTEC’s overall offering, with the acquisition also marking further growth for the company in Ireland and its first office in Northern Ireland. The acquisition continues SOCOTEC’s moves to widen its infrastructure services, both geographically and in terms of its depth of services.
SOCOTEC’s experience is expected to enhance the client offering in Ireland, while there are plans to use LDG’s expertise across the rest of the UK, particularly for projects involving complex foundations and micro-piling. The close proximity to Scotland also provides opportunities for SOCOTEC to increase its offering there post-acquisition.
SOCOTEC CEO Hervé Montjotin said: "Acquiring Lloyds Datum Group aligns with the outline set in place by SOCOTEC Group, and brings further growth on the island of Ireland for our UK and Ireland operations, which now boasts a presence in both Belfast and Dublin."
"Our Infrastructure business is one of high strategic importance for SOCOTEC, with 37% of our global turnover stemming from our seven platforms in Europe and the US. We already provide air emissions and fire safety services in the Republic of Ireland, and are looking forward to the customer bases of LDG and SOCOTEC benefitting further from our shared knowledge base."
SOCOTEC UK & Ireland CEO Matthew Marriott said that the deal was “the next step of our growth strategy” and expanded the group’s infrastructure capabilities in the UK and Ireland.
He continued: "Following our second Scottish acquisition in two years, our first major acquisition in Ireland marks the next stage of expanding our geographical footprint, doubling our overall office space in Ireland, and demonstrating our commitment to continue investing in this important area."
Following the acquisition, LDG Managing Director Nigel Dillon will continue to lead the company under SOCOTEC’s ownership. Dillon said that the deal would provide the company with “an incredible platform from which to expand and deliver an enhanced service offering to our clients.”
He added: "With our Belfast HQ and Dublin office in place, we are looking forward to becoming part of SOCOTEC’s presence on the island of Ireland, and building upon our existing legacy, while accessing wider resources and expertise."
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