Intel is selling 20% of its stake in IMS Nanofabrication GmbH to Bain Capital Special Situations, in a deal that values the nanofabrication business at around $4.3 billion. The transaction is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2023.
IMS, based in Vienna, Austria, is known for pioneering multi e-beam technology and the commercial launch of the first multi-beam mask writer in 2015. Intel first invested in the company in 2009 and took full ownership in 2015. Since then, IMS has yielded significant returns on investment for Intel, quadrupling its workforce and production capacity, and rolling out three more product generations.
With the growing adoption of EUV (extreme ultraviolet lithography) technology, the demand for multi-beam mask writing tools essential for advanced EUV masks has spiked, becoming a crucial element of the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. This new investment from Bain Capital aims to position IMS to leverage this increasing market opportunity and foster innovation and collaboration across the industry.
Matt Poirier, Senior Vice President of Corporate Development at Intel, stated that lithography's progress is vital for the semiconductor industry's advancement. He expressed hope that Bain Capital's investment would allow IMS to innovate the next phase of lithography technology, which will benefit the ecosystem as a whole.
Dr. Elmar Platzgummer, CEO, IMS, will continue to lead the company as a standalone subsidiary. He expressed his satisfaction at gaining a valuable partner in Bain Capital. “We look forward to expanding our ability to support the world's largest chip producers, who rely on our technology to produce current and next generations of semiconductor products,” said Platzgummer.
Representatives from Bain Capital echoed Platzgummer's sentiments, indicating their excitement about partnering with IMS and Intel. They believe that IMS, with its competitive position, technological differentiation, and cutting-edge product capabilities, is well-equipped to capitalise on the growth opportunities within the semiconductor and nanotech industries.
