West Sussex-based Edwards Vacuum invests in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chandler.
The new facility will be of 200,000 square-foot and will leverage the latest manufacturing and digital technologies to support the fast-growing North American semiconductor market with services and solutions for the efficient and environmentally sustainable production of chips.
Semiconductor manufacturing is essential to supporting developments across the technology, electronics, transport, scientific and healthcare sectors. A recent surge in demand has seen widespread investment in the US’ manufacturing capability, and Edwards’ investment in a new Arizona facility represents a significant step forward in ensuring the supply chain capacity required to support that growth.
“Unprecedented growth in the semiconductor market to meet the world’s growing consumer demand has resulted in extraordinary growth in demand for Edwards’ products and services,” said Troy Metcalf, President of Edwards Semiconductor Service. “Looking ahead, this growth is set to continue, with our customers in the USA investing billions of dollars in additional manufacturing capacity. At Edwards, we have a long tradition of supporting our customers with local service and manufacturing capabilities, and our investment in the Chandler facility continues that tradition. With the utilisation of the latest in smart manufacturing techniques and advanced automation, this new facility will be instrumental in supporting the safe, productive and environmentally sustainable manufacturing of semiconductors in North America.”
The Chandler facility will also feature warehousing facilities, factory areas, meeting rooms, and a dedicated training centre. It is anticipated that the new facility will create approximately 200 new jobs in the local area, with scope to grow along with the market.
“Arizona is grateful Edwards has selected Chandler as the site of its newest manufacturing facility,” said Governor Doug Ducey. “This announcement furthers Arizona’s reputation as an unrivaled manufacturing destination and strengthens the state’s growing semiconductor supply chain.”
“Edwards is a global leader in the semiconductor supply chain and we are proud the company will be part of Arizona’s semiconductor industry,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “Edwards’ innovative solutions in vacuum and abatement for semiconductor manufacturing will advance Arizona’s leadership as a semiconductor hub while creating hundreds of skilled jobs. We look forward to supporting Edwards as they begin production at their manufacturing facility later this year.”
Construction of the new site in Chandler is underway and from the third quarter of this year, the facility will commence the remanufacturing and assembly of equipment essential to meet the demand for new semiconductor fab requirements. It will utilize advanced automation and data solutions to disassemble, clean, inspect, repair, replace and reassemble vacuum pumps. Reduced transportation through close customer proximity, along with water recycling and the use of renewable energy will all contribute to more sustainable manufacturing operations.
“Chandler continues to attract significant investment from the semiconductor supply chain and we are thrilled to announce this latest addition,” said Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke. “Edwards went through an exhaustive site selection process and ultimately chose Chandler due to our first-class labour pool, excellent transportation access, and great quality of life. We look forward to partnering with Edwards as they invest in our community in the months and years ahead.”
“Greater Phoenix is at the centre of a rapidly accelerating semiconductor movement, and the Edwards Vacuum expansion in Chandler is the latest addition to our booming industry ecosystem,” said Chris Camacho, President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. “They provide a critical component to the manufacturing process that helps the region maintain a competitive edge, and we look forward to being a partner in their continued growth and success.”
