Intertek Shares Jump 7% as Board Backs £10.6 Billion EQT Takeover Bid

Intertek's board has signaled its readiness to recommend a final takeover bid from Swedish private equity firm EQT valued at £60 per share. According to reports, the total valuation of the deal stands at £10.6 billion, marking EQT's fourth and final approach after three previous bids ranging from £51.50 to £58.00 per share were rejected. Following the announcement, Intertek shares surged 7.3% to reach 5,687p.

The final proposal reflects a strategic premium designed to conclude lengthy negotiations and address the board's prior valuation concerns. Compared to industry peers in the testing and certification sector, this £10.6 billion valuation positions Intertek strongly against competitors such as SGS and Bureau Veritas, per market data. Analysts suggest that EQT's successful pursuit of this major British asset underscores a broader trend of private equity interest in undervalued industrial services.

Intertek shares were trading at 5,687p (at close May 13, 2026) following the news, as investors shift focus toward the official merger timeline and regulatory approvals. According to the economic calendar, upcoming central bank interest rate decisions in the UK and Europe will be critical for the final financing structures of this large-scale acquisition. Traders should continue to monitor the industrial services sector in London for potential ripple effects on peer valuations.