Zeiss, the German optics specialist and key supplier to ASML, says it is well positioned to meet the growing global demand for semiconductor equipment. Frank Rohmund, head of the company’s semiconductor division, shared this confidence in an interview with Bloomberg.
Criticality
Zeiss supplies critical optical components, especially ultra‑smooth mirrors, for ASML’s EUV machines. These EUV machines are solely used to produce the world’s most advanced chips. These components are so essential that ASML acquired a minority stake in Zeiss’s semiconductor division back in 2016.
The division recently expanded its headquarters in Oberkochen. The main focus will be to increase production capacity and make better use of available space. Zeiss is also building a new factory elsewhere and says it can scale up further if needed.
Investor Concerns
Zeiss reports that its optical components are used in the production of about 80 percent of all chips worldwide, largely thanks to its long-standing partnership with ASML. As demand for advanced chips, especially those powering artificial intelligence, continues to surge, major manufacturers such as TSMC, Intel, and Samsung are rapidly expanding their production capacity.
The rapid build‑out of new chip factories has raised concerns about whether ASML and its suppliers can keep up. In July, ASML said it will increase EUV production capacity to meet rising demand and deliver the orders already planned through 2028.
@anp | NEWSBRAINPORT
