Kulicke and Soffa Industries, Inc. (NASDAQ: KLIC) subsidiary Kulicke and Soffa Luxembourg S.À R.L. has signed a definitive agreement for the acquisition of Advanced Jet Automation Co., Ltd., which at closing will own designated dispensing assets and the dispensing business of its affiliate, Samurai Spirit Inc., a leading developer and manufacturer of high-precision micro dispensing equipment and solutions in Taiwan (such acquired entity, assets and business, collectively, “AJA”). When completed, the acquisition will enhance the Company’s existing semiconductor, electronic assembly and advanced display portfolio while also providing new access to the broader dispensing market.
The dispensing equipment market is expected to approach US$2 billion in the calendar year 2023, providing K&S with new growth opportunities. Additionally, AJA’s existing market position and competencies in high-precision dispensing complement Kulicke & Soffa’s long-term opportunities in electronics assembly, advanced packaging and mini and micro LED. The AJA technology is currently deployed alongside K&S’ market-leading PIXALUX system, supporting high-volume mini LED display production.
The acquisition includes the design and manufacture of high-precision dispensing equipment capable of flux, solder paste, epoxy, adhesives and underfill applications. Specifically, AJA’s proprietary dispensing head actuator combined with its AI driven software delivers excellent end-valve dispensing and process positioning accuracy. This also enables the formation of the smallest possible keep-off-zone (KOZ) in the industry. Embedded AOI and AI capability further differentiate the AJA solution from its peers, while supporting Industry 4.0 transformation.
“This is an exciting acquisition that will further expand K&S’ capabilities, delivering complementary technology and products for the advanced packaging and advanced display industry. Leveraging the collective talent and experience of K&S and AJA, we are well-prepared to accelerate growth and deliver innovative solutions to support the increasingly complex needs of our customers as well as the market,” said Chan Pin Chong, Kulicke & Soffa’s Executive Vice President and General Manager, Products & Solutions.
“AJA has a wide range of high-end dispensing systems and solutions supporting a wide range of assembly needs. Through this acquisition, which leverages the capabilities of both K&S and AJA, we are pleased to offer the industry a full suite of solutions providing new access to applications such as laser micromachining, laser lift-off for micro LED and tomography,” said Raymond Chen, founder and Managing Director of AJA.
The acquisition is expected to close in the second quarter of the Company’s fiscal 2023, subject to customary closing conditions, including applicable regulatory approvals.
