AI Drives Merck’s Acquisition of Chip Inspection Firm UnitySC

Merck, a global science and technology company, recently announced its acquisition of Unity-SC, a company that specializes in metrology tools for the semiconductor industry. With approximately 160 employees, including 70 dedicated to research and development, Unity-SC has been at the forefront of innovation in the field.

"The acquisition of Unity-SC complements our science- and technology-driven portfolio for the semiconductor industry. It strengthens our ability to benefit from the growth opportunities of artificial intelligence as an integrated solutions provider for our customers in developing next-generation chips," said Belén Garijo, CEO and chairman of Merck.

Unity-SC's metrology tools play a crucial role in enhancing the quality, yield, and manufacturing costs of chips used in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and high-bandwidth memory applications. This acquisition aligns with Merck's strategic vision to provide cutting-edge solutions to its customers.

Moreover, Unity-SC is known for its expertise in testing components produced using advanced packaging and heterogeneous integration using chiplets. This capability further solidifies Merck's position as a leader in the semiconductor industry, offering comprehensive solutions to address the evolving needs of the market.

"We are convinced that 3D metrology tools will further advance the semiconductor industry. Adding metrology to our portfolio allows us to provide more materials and more solutions that effectively solve our customers' challenges in developing ever faster, more powerful, and more efficient chips," said Kai Beckmann, CEO of Merck Electronics.

The acquisition of Unity-SC is pending consultation with the French workforce and regulatory approval, along with other closing conditions. The deal is anticipated to be finalized by the end of 2024, marking a significant milestone in Merck's journey towards innovation and growth in the semiconductor sector.