ASM has recently announced a $300 million project to relocate its North American headquarters from Phoenix, which has been in operation since 1976 and employs over 800 people, to Scottsdale. The new headquarters will be a 250,000-square-foot facility, creating 500 high-paying jobs and is expected to be completed within three years. Upon completion, the headquarters will serve various functions, including housing a new research and development lab, a global training center, and supply chain and manufacturing engineering facilities.
Governor Katie Hobbs expressed enthusiasm about this development, stating that it signifies Arizona's emergence as a global hub for sustainable technologies, such as electric vehicles, solar energy, batteries, and semiconductors. The Netherlands' Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, emphasized the critical role of semiconductor technology in addressing global challenges like climate change and green energy.
ASM plays a crucial role in the production of semiconductor integrated-circuit chips used in electronics for consumers and businesses. The company's focus includes designing, manufacturing, selling, and servicing tools for customers in semiconductor fabs, with a specific emphasis on the deposition of thin films.
Beyond its technological contributions, ASM has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability. The company aims to pursue a LEED rating for its new headquarters and plans to utilize over 80% reclaimed water at the facility. Furthermore, ASM is partnering with The Nature Conservancy to enhance irrigation systems in the Verde Valley and bolster the resiliency of the Verde River, a critical water source for Greater Phoenix.
Arizona has garnered international recognition as the "Silicon Desert," with significant investments from companies like TSMC and Intel. Jonathan Keyser, a representative from Keyser Commercial Real Estate, highlighted Arizona's appeal to semiconductor companies due to its reliable power, strong telecommunications infrastructure, talented workforce, and growing ecosystem of suppliers, clients, and partners.
The relocation of ASM's headquarters to Scottsdale is a strategic move to position itself between Intel and TSMC, highlighting the state's growing significance in the semiconductor industry. This development underscores Arizona's role as a key player in the future of the semiconductor industry, with TSMC's decision to invest in the state seen as a pivotal moment that will positively impact its growth in the years to come.
