At the forefront of scientific testing and assurance, ALS Global has built a reputation as a “trust provider” across industries ranging from mining and environmental science to food, pharmaceuticals, and energy. Founded in 1863 in Brisbane, the Australian multinational now spans over 450 laboratories in 70 countries, driving data-backed decisions for clients worldwide.

Building on this legacy, the company is now redefining how data and AI shape its future. In this first part of a three-part series, Thibault Bonneton, Chief Digital and Information Officer at ALS Global, sits down with Julian Schirmer, Co-Founder of OAO, to explore how ALS organizes its data and AI strategy and what the future of “Smart Labs” looks like in a decentralized, high-stakes global testing enterprise.

A global company built on decentralized strength

Bonneton outlines ALS Global’s highly decentralized structure, an operational decision that enables agility across its vast network of laboratories. “We have more than 450 labs across 70 countries,” he shares, emphasizing that major support functions are spread across the globe, from Brisbane (HQ) and Houston (former ops HQ) to a growing executive presence in Madrid.

Beginning in July this year, ALS’s CEO, CFO, CPO, and CDIO have been operating out of Madrid, reflecting the organization’s evolving European footprint. This shift is part of a broader commitment to fostering diversity geographically, culturally, and professionally, Bonneton says.

“We have people from different backgrounds, origins, and experiences. And I think it’s really part of one of the strengths of our organization.”

While ALS’s scope spans many sectors, Bonneton offers illustrative client stories to spotlight the breadth of its impact.

In mining, ALS supports companies in verifying critical geochemical data. “They need to publish reports and the percentage of gold they have. You need a third party to testify. This part could be us,” says Bonneton. ALS is, in fact, the global leader in mining testing services, he adds.

In municipal water testing, ALS provides yearly safety validations for tap water in places like Spain. “They have to send a sample to somebody else in the market to produce a certificate that the water is drinkable and safe.”

In retail food safety, ALS partners with supermarket chains across Europe to validate the quality of their offerings. “We want to test the quality and the safety of the food they deliver to their clients,” Bonneton explains.

Each of these engagements hinges on one core value of trust in the data ALS provides and in the scientific rigor behind each report.

Data as core product

“In essence, we are a data provider,” Bonneton clarifies. ALS does not just test substances; it delivers validated data that informs regulatory compliance, investment decisions, and public safety. “We receive samples, perform tests, and issue reports, and those reports are typically data.”

With over 30 years of continuously collected datasets, ALS now holds one of the largest repositories in the testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) industry. “So, data is at the core of our business.”

The rise of the smart lab

The conversation then turns to AI, an area where Bonneton sees vast potential for transformation. “AI is very important because you can streamline your business model, make your data speak, and provide better insight to your clients,” he says. ALS is currently implementing both traditional AI and generative AI across its operations, with a particular focus on evolving toward what Bonneton calls the “Smart Lab.” His vision is to make labs that are “faster, more efficient, and more reliable.”

This transformation began in earnest with ALS’s 2022 acquisition of GoldSpot, a Canadian AI and geoscience startup. Today, that capability enables ALS to apply advanced algorithms in geochemistry, analyzing magnetic data, satellite imagery, and more to guide mining companies on optimal drilling zones. Bonneton concludes, “It gives additional insights into how you use AI and data to provide a different service.”

CDO Magazine appreciates Thibault Bonneton for sharing his insights with our global community.