MALVERN, PA — Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. (NYSE: VSH), a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and passive electronic components, has announced the completion of its acquisition of Nexperia’s wafer fabrication facility in Newport, South Wales, U.K. The purchase, which cost approximately $177 million in cash, marks a significant expansion of Vishay’s manufacturing capabilities.
The Newport wafer fab is an automotive-certified, 200mm semiconductor wafer fab situated on 28 acres of land. It has the capacity to produce more than 30,000 wafers per month, making it the U.K.’s largest semiconductor fab. The facility has a long-standing reputation for supplying components to the automotive and industrial markets.
With this acquisition, Vishay plans to transform the Newport facility into a manufacturing excellence center focusing on Net Zero Transformation, which involves decarbonization and electrification. This move aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable practices in the tech industry.
In addition, Vishay will join the Compound Semiconductor Cluster in South Wales, allowing the company to collaborate with local universities and other entities in the U.K. to enhance its research and development efforts on power compound semiconductors.
Marc Zandman, Executive Chairman of the Board at Vishay, highlighted the strategic value of the acquisition, stating, “Under Joel Smejkal’s leadership, Vishay is investing in technologies and incremental capacity to drive faster growth and enhance returns to stockholders. The aim is to capitalize on the megatrends of e-mobility, sustainability, and connectivity.”
Joel Smejkal, President and CEO of Vishay, expressed excitement about the potential impact of having a Vishay-owned fab to qualify and scale the company’s SiC portfolio. He also emphasized the company’s focus on accelerating its participation in the SiC MOSFETs and diodes marketplace.
The transaction was funded by Vishay with cash on-hand. To complete the transaction, Vishay acquired a 100% interest in Neptune 6 Limited and its wholly-owned operating subsidiary, Nexperia Newport Limited, which owns and operates the Newport facility. Both entities are expected to be renamed as “Vishay UK Holdings Limited” and “Vishay Newport Limited,” respectively.
With this acquisition, Vishay has positioned itself to take full advantage of the rising demand for semiconductors, while also furthering its commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices.
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