SGS strengthens SME sustainability reporting with full-service support for the VSME standard

SGS strengthens SME sustainability reporting with full-service support for the VSME standard

(IN BRIEF) SGS has introduced a full-service package to help small and medium-sized enterprises implement the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for Non-Listed SMEs (VSME). Developed by EFRAG as a simplified option to the CSRD, the VSME is gaining importance with the EU’s Omnibus Directive, which seeks to streamline sustainability reporting requirements. With growing ESG expectations from stakeholders, SGS provides end-to-end solutions covering advisory, training, verification, and assurance, ensuring SMEs can enhance transparency, improve financing access, prepare for future regulation, and strengthen their competitive edge. Leveraging more than 30 years of sustainability expertise, SGS’s global team of specialists aims to help SMEs deliver credible sustainability reports, align with EU standards, and unlock long-term ESG value.

(PRESS RELEASE) GENEVA, 27-Aug-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — SGS has announced the rollout of its full suite of services designed to assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in navigating the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for Non-Listed SMEs (VSME). This offering brings together advanced advisory, specialized training, independent verification, and assurance solutions, enabling businesses to strengthen their sustainability reporting and meet growing environmental, social and governance (ESG) expectations.

The VSME framework, introduced by the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG), is becoming increasingly significant following the EU’s Omnibus Directive, which aims to simplify sustainability rules and reporting requirements across the bloc. For non-listed SMEs, which are under growing scrutiny from investors, banks, and supply chain partners, the standard offers a proportional and practical alternative to the more complex Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).

Through its global network of sustainability professionals, SGS provides end-to-end support across the entire VSME journey, from initial familiarization with the standard to preparing and validating reports. This includes tailored advisory services, training programs, independent verification, and third-party assurance designed to strengthen transparency, build trust, and open access to financing. The services are also intended to help SMEs anticipate regulatory developments, identify opportunities for internal ESG improvement, and gain a competitive advantage in their markets.

Key benefits of SGS’s VSME support include greater clarity in sustainability positioning through standardized reporting, stronger investor and financial institution confidence, readiness for future EU reporting obligations, and the ability to uncover performance opportunities in areas such as energy efficiency, resource management, and workforce development.

Backed by more than three decades of sustainability expertise, SGS’s IMPACT NOW for sustainability specialists combine deep regulatory knowledge with practical implementation skills to deliver credible and reliable ESG disclosures. By leveraging SGS’s advisory and assurance capabilities, SMEs can establish themselves as trusted, transparent, and future-ready business partners.

Further details on SGS’s VSME services are available on the company’s dedicated service page.

About SGS

SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).

Media Contact:

Simon Colton
Head of Non-Financial Reporting & Sustainable Finance
SGS
t: +31 (6) 53359560

SOURCE: SGS