EMD Electronics, the North American Electronics business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, will expand with a new factory in Chandler, Arizona. The $28 million project is expected to create 100 jobs.

The facility, expected to start operations by the end of 2022, will operate on a new property and has been secured with a long-term lease. The location will be designed to meet forecast business needs by providing additional capacity, primarily for GASGUARD and CHEMGUARD systems.

“A record number of greenfield capital projects indicates that the momentum of our industry is set to remain strong,” said Katherine Dei Cas, Head of the Delivery Systems & Services business unit within the Electronics business sector of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. “The opening of our new factory shows our commitment to further support our customers' ambitious growth plans. We are proud to expand our production capacity and innovation footprint in Arizona and to contribute to the state’s development as a major semiconductor hub in the U.S.”

As part of the Level Up program, the investment will enable EMD’s Delivery Systems & Services (DS&S) business to capture and grow its gas and chemical delivery systems business in the targeted regions of North America and Europe, with supplemental capacity to supply Asia.

“EMD Electronics’ investment in Chandler advances its position as a global semiconductor materials leader,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA). “The company’s enhanced presence will bolster Chandler’s position as a technology hub, creating quality jobs and supporting existing semiconductor leaders in the state.”

EMD’s materials and solutions make a difference to the electronics industry by accelerating innovation that powers everyday lives, like smartphones, the Internet of Things, and autonomous driving.

“There’s a ripple effect occurring as the semiconductor industry has its sights set on Greater Phoenix, and EMD Electronics’ expansion to Chandler shows that trend in action,” said Chris Camacho, President and CEO, Greater Phoenix Economic Council. “With the increased presence of this international innovator in our region, the local semiconductor ecosystem continues its upward trajectory as a global leader.”