The deal, which was facilitated by Scottish government agencies, will see the transfer of the facility for processing 8 inch wafers. It follows extensive discussions between Scottish Enterprise, Locate in Scotland, the Scottish Executive, Hyundai and Motorola. The announcement follows a decision by Hyundai in June 1998 to indefinitely suspend plans for a semiconductor manufacturing facility in Dunfermline producing DRAMs for the PC market in Europe. After securing the largest DRAM manufacturing capacity as a result of the mega-merger with LG Semicon, Hyundai has executed this disposal as a part of its strategy to improve investment efficiency and to strengthen the competitiveness of its semiconductor business. Hyundai also expects this divestiture to contribute to the balance between demand and supply in the future DRAM market. With the money raised from the disposal, Hyundai will improve its financial structure and upgrade its manufacturing facilities for the next generation products. Welcoming the announcement David Macdonald, Director of Locate in Scotland, said: “I am delighted that Hyundai has been able to secure a buyer for this facility. This project will now continue to create more high quality employment opportunities. It is an enormous testament to the skills and quality of our workforce.” “Scotland needs to ensure that it has a strong foothold in this dynamic industry and we are especially pleased that Motorola as decided to invest further in this country. Despite the disposal of this facility, we look forward to a continued relationship with Hyundai on further projects in the future.”
– Hyundai, one of the world’s leading semiconductor companies, today announced that it is to transfer ownership of its semiconductor facility located in Dunfermline, Scotland to Motorola.
