Q: DNV and Intertek Group plc (Intertek) are discussing merging their business assurance activities. What does this mean, exactly?
A: We areexploring the potential to unite our certification activities, thereby creating the world leader in certification, inspection and testing.We will negotiate the way forward with Intertek and communicate to the market whether and when these two entities will unite. This is expected to occur in spring 2010.
Q: Are all the DNV customers involved in this announcement?
A: Only if you are a customer of DNV Business Assurance. That is, if we have provided you with services in management system or product certification, training, assessment or Corporate Responsibility areas.
Q: Who is Intertek?
A: Intertek is a leading provider of quality and safety solutions, serving a wide range of industries around the world. From auditing and inspection to testing, quality assurance and certification, Intertek has the expertise, resources and global reach to support its customers through its network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and over 24,000 people in over 100 countries around the world. They are complementary to DNV in their service offering, which will be the greatest benefit to our customers, should the two companies unite.
Q: Is Intertek active in my country?
A: For the time being DNV and Intertek remain competitors. However, you can find this information on http://www.intertek.com/contact/. DNV is present in more than 100 countries as well. When a binding agreement is signed, you will have access to a broader platform of services, expertise and geographical availability.
Q: As a customer, will I be moved to Intertek now?
A: No. For the time being, DNV and Intertek continue to be separate entities, still in competition in the market. DNV maintains all of its customers.
Q: Are there any major changes I can expect now?
A: No. You continue to be a valuable DNV customer, and we will continue to work with you – business as usual. You will not experience any changes at this time.
Q: I have a DNV certificate. Is it still valid?
A: Yes, it is 100% valid. Certificates are – and will remain – totally valid as DNV continues to be accredited for all standards and countries as before.
Q: Will my certificate be branded under the DNV or Intertek logo?
A: In this phase all DNV certificates will remain DNV-branded. When a binding agreement is signed, our certificates will be co-branded.
Q: I have agreed with my DNV contacts that an activity will be planned and carried out on certain specific dates. Has or will this change?
A: Not at all. We keep our promises; all activities will be maintained and our employees will be there for you.
Q: I am used to dealing with DNV’s local office. Will this change now?
A: No. For the time being, your local office remains the same, as well as your contact person(s). Our planners and auditors will continue to be your trusted reference points, together with your dedicated account manager.
Q: I have contracts with DNV and Intertek. Can I combine them?
A: Until further notice, we are still competitors. However, when we merge our activities this may be a possible add-on.
Q: I am dealing with DNV for certification type services. What changes can I be subject to?
A: There are no changes for you. DNV is still your only partner.
Q: Will I receive invoices from a different entity now?
A: No, your service provider is still DNV. No changes are expected before a binding agreement is signed.
Q: How can I be informed about the progress on the discussions?
A: Everything will be taken care of by DNV. We will keep you up to date.