LRQA has announced the acquisition of Partner Africa, a prominent social audit and responsible business advisory firm, in a move that significantly bolsters its responsible sourcing capabilities. This transaction marks LRQA’s first acquisition within the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region and is a key component of its 2026 growth strategy focused on high-growth markets.
The addition of Partner Africa provides LRQA with deep regional expertise and established in-market relationships across a continent increasingly vital to global supply chain transparency. By integrating Partner Africa’s local insights with LRQA’s global risk management framework, the combined entity aims to help clients navigate complex labour standards and human rights challenges.
“Partner Africa brings outstanding expertise in social auditing and responsible sourcing, along with advisory services on labour standards and human rights, in a region where demand for these capabilities is growing rapidly,” said Ian Spaulding, CEO of LRQA. “Africa is an important emerging market for LRQA, and this acquisition strengthens our ability to support clients building transparent and resilient supply chains.”
The deal also provides Partner Africa’s existing clients with access to LRQA’s extensive service portfolio, including cyber security, climate performance, and its supply chain intelligence software, EiQ.
Rosie Akester, Head of Responsible Business, Advisory at Partner Africa, noted: “Joining LRQA allows us to scale the impact of our work across Africa while bringing new capabilities to the organisations we support. Our focus has always been on improving working conditions and strengthening responsible business practices.”
Kathy O’Grady, Head of Audit at Partner Africa, added that the merger positions the teams to meet the “increasing demand for credible, high-quality social audits at scale.”
LRQA was advised on the transaction by Squire Patton Boggs, Bowmans, and MHA, while Partner Africa was advised by Withers.
