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Sumitomo Heavy Industries plans European expansion

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In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the rapidly growing semiconductor market, Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. (SHI) has acquired Laser Systems & Solutions of Europe SASU (LASSE), a French company specialising in cutting-edge laser annealing equipment for semiconductor manufacturing.

LASSE, located in Gennevilliers, France, is currently a subsidiary of SCREEN Semiconductor Solutions Co., Ltd. (SCREEN SPE) and will become a wholly owned subsidiary of SHI upon the completion of the acquisition on 17 January 2025.



This acquisition aligns with SHI's Medium-Term Management Plan 2026, which identifies the semiconductor sector as a key area for investment and growth. LASSE's advanced laser annealing technology is crucial in producing power semiconductors, a market segment experiencing significant expansion due to the rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy solutions.



By integrating LASSE's expertise and technology, SHI aims to strengthen its position as a leading provider of advanced manufacturing solutions for the semiconductor industry. It will expand sales through cross-selling and integrating both companies' research and development capabilities.



The acquisition follows SHI's November announcement that it would integrate its laser business within its Mechatronics Division with Sumitomo Heavy Industries Ion Technology Co. (SMIT), a wholly owned subsidiary. That strategic move forms part of SHI’s overall global semiconductor investment and growth strategy.



Shaun Dean, Managing Director of SHI Europe (headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands) and Executive Vice President of SHI, explained how the “semiconductor field” is a priority investment area of SHI’s Medium Term Plan 2026, which started in 2024.



"LASSE's strong track record in Europe and their specialised knowledge in laser annealing for power semiconductors will be invaluable as we expand our global reach and contribute to the advancement of semiconductor technology,” said Mr Dean.



“LASSE brings a wealth of experience in developing and manufacturing high-performance laser annealing equipment to SHI. Their technology is particularly well-suited for the demanding requirements of power semiconductor fabrication, enabling efficient and precise heat treatment processes essential for optimising device performance and reliability.”



He added: “Furthermore, LASSE has cultivated strong relationships with key players in the European semiconductor industry, providing SHI with access to a valuable customer base and a well-established network within this important market.



“We plan to leverage our mutually complementary relationship in sales, service, and R&D to ensure our competitive advantages in power semiconductors.”



Sixty-three employees are employed at LASSE in France.



The acquisition is expected to generate significant synergies for both companies. SHI's extensive global resources and manufacturing capabilities will enable LASSE to scale its operations and accelerate the development of new technologies.



LASSE's specialised knowledge and strong European presence will complement SHI's existing strengths and expand its market reach. By combining their respective resources and expertise, SHI and LASSE are poised to drive innovation and contribute to the future growth of the semiconductor industry.



The acquisition is the first since SHI opened a dedicated regional European headquarters in Amstelveen, Netherlands, in December 2023 to oversee more than 60 subsidiary businesses in the region.

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