Regulators Assess Impact of Tetra Tech’s SAGE Buy

Tetra Tech’s AUD 150M purchase of SAGE Group faces regulatory review amid global automation expansion

23 Oct 2025

Tetra Tech’s planned acquisition of Australia’s SAGE Group for AUD 150 million has attracted the attention of regulators, who are reviewing the deal’s potential impact on competition within the industrial automation sector.

The agreement, announced on May 1, 2025, would bring more than 800 SAGE employees into Tetra Tech’s global network. It also expands the firm’s reach across critical sectors including energy, water, and advanced manufacturing.

Analysts say regulators are likely to examine how the merger could influence market concentration, especially as global infrastructure consultancies move deeper into digital automation and data-driven engineering. The deal reflects a broader trend of consolidation as firms seek to offer end-to-end automation capabilities that combine system integration, analytics, and cybersecurity.

SAGE managing director Adrian Fahey said the partnership “unlocks new global resources” to enhance client services, while Tetra Tech CEO Dan Batrack emphasized its role in strengthening data-informed decision-making for industries and governments.

Despite regulatory scrutiny, experts view approval as probable given the complementary nature of the two companies’ operations. However, they note that aligning compliance standards and data governance frameworks across markets will be key to a smooth transition.

If cleared, the acquisition would cement Tetra Tech’s position as a global leader in smart infrastructure, blending Australian engineering talent with international digital expertise. The outcome of the review may also set a precedent for future automation mergers as regulators balance innovation with fair competition.