Testing Inspection Certification Market Trends

Introduction

In 2023 the testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) market will have undergone a great transformation, resulting from the confluence of a number of macroeconomic trends, such as technological advances, increased regulatory pressures, and changes in consumer behavior. Digital technology, in particular automation and artificial intelligence, is reshaping the methods used for testing and enhancing operational efficiency. Meanwhile, across a wide range of industries, stricter regulatory requirements are putting compliance and quality assurance at the forefront of organizational priorities, thus driving up demand for TIC services. Also, consumers’ greater awareness of the need for safe and sustainable products is influencing their purchasing decisions, and companies are increasingly seeking third-party certifications to build trust and credibility. These trends are strategically important for the players in the market, as they seek to navigate an increasingly complex environment and remain responsive to the demands of their customers.

Top Trends

1. Digital Transformation in TIC Services
   The market for inspection is adopting digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things for improved inspection processes. Companies such as SGS are using AI-based analytics to increase efficiency and accuracy. According to industry reports, digital tools can reduce inspection times by up to 30 per cent. It also improves the quality of the data collected, enabling better decision-making and future service innovations.
2. Sustainability and Environmental Compliance
   Against the background of increased regulatory pressures, companies are increasingly focusing on sustainable operations. Bureau Veritas, for example, has developed services that help its clients meet the requirements of the environment. A survey* showed that a majority of companies put sustainable procurement at the top of their priorities. In the future, this trend will certainly increase the demand for technical and industrial services that ensure compliance with regulations.
3. Increased Focus on Cybersecurity
   IT security in industry is essential. Intertek has therefore launched cyber security audits to help clients protect their data. Reports show that 60 % of companies have suffered a cyber attack in the past year, which shows how important it is to act now. Consequently, we expect to see a significant increase in the demand for IT services that include cyber security measures, thereby reshaping the service offerings on the market.
4. Regulatory Changes and Compliance Standards
   Governments around the world are reviewing their regulations for telecommunications companies. In the European Union, for example, the new regulations on product safety have prompted many companies to seek certification. The figures show that 80% of companies are investing in certification to avoid fines. This trend is likely to increase the demand for TIC services as companies seek to meet the new regulatory requirements.
5. Expansion of Remote Inspection Services
   The pandemic accelerated the use of remote control inspection, with the leading company being Dekra. Reduced travel costs by up to 50%, remote inspections are attractive for many companies. This trend is expected to change the way we inspect, allowing greater flexibility and efficiency in the operation.
6. Integration of Advanced Testing Methods
   The TIC market is undergoing a shift towards the use of advanced testing methods such as NDT. The MISTRAS Group is at the forefront of this movement, putting safety and reliability first. Industry figures show that the use of NDT can reduce the failure rate by up to 40%. This trend will encourage innovation in the testing sector, leading to improvements in quality and safety standards.
7. Focus on Supply Chain Transparency
   The increasing demand for transparency in the supply chain is forcing TIC companies to enhance their auditing services. The ASTM International has developed a standard to increase the visibility of the supply chain. The results of a survey have shown that 75% of consumers prefer brands that are open about their sourcing. This trend is expected to lead to an increased demand for TIC services that ensure traceability and accountability in the supply chain.
8. Rise of Health and Safety Certifications
   In the face of the health crises, the importance of health and safety certifications has increased. The certifications of health and safety management systems are being expanded by companies such as the BSI Group. According to a survey, more than 90 percent of companies have made health and safety their top priority. This trend will also affect the market for information and communication technology (ICT) services that support compliance with health regulations.
9. Adoption of Blockchain for Traceability
   The use of the blockchain in the field of TIC is being studied. Some companies have already begun to use it to guarantee the integrity of data. A study shows that 65% of supply chain managers believe that the blockchain will increase transparency. This innovation could revolutionize the certification and certification process.
10. Customization of TIC Services
    There is an increasing trend towards the individualisation of TIC services in order to meet the requirements of specific customers. Firms like ALS offer industry-tailored solutions. The figures show that 85% of clients prefer bespoke services to standard products. This development is expected to increase customer satisfaction and loyalty, and to provide a means of differentiation in the TIC market.

Conclusion: Navigating TIC Market Dynamics in 2023

Testing, inspection and certification (TIC) is a market characterized by intense competition and significant fragmentation, with both legacy and new players vying for market share. The regional trends point to a growing emphasis on sustainability and compliance. In this context, the vendors are adapting their strategies accordingly. The established players are deploying their brand reputations and their extensive networks, while the new entrants are focusing on innovative capabilities such as artificial intelligence, automation and agility. These new capabilities will be key to success in the evolving TIC market, as they will help companies to enhance their operational efficiency and meet the growing demand for sustainable practices. So for a company to remain competitive and responsive to the changing market needs, it will need to prioritise investments in these capabilities.