Applied Materials to Acquire Outsourcer

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 20 -- Semiconductor equipment manufacturer Applied Materials Inc. announced this week it will acquire the operating subsidiaries and businesses of Metron Technology NV, a San Jose, Calif.-based provider of outsourced marketing, sales and support services to the semiconductor industry.

Under terms of the agreement, Applied Materials will pay approximately $85 million for all outstanding shares and equity equivalents of Metron's worldwide operating subsidiaries and substantially all of its other assets, and will assume certain Metron liabilities. The acquisition, subject to regulatory and Metron shareholder approval and other closing conditions, is expected to close in Applied Materials' fourth fiscal quarter.

Metron Technology has more than 30 offices and several operating facilities in the US, Europe, Israel and Asia. Metron's services to fabrication facilities include supply of parts and materials, equipment maintenance, kitting and cleaning of process parts, refurbishment of legacy equipment and distribution of specialty products.

The Metron businesses will be an integral part of Applied Global Services and will develop and market products for Applied Materials' growing fab services program, including support of non-Applied Materials systems.

"We welcome our new relationship with Applied Materials and the opportunity to offer customers outsource solutions as part of Applied's world-class organization," said Ed Segal, chairman and CEO of Metron Technology. "By combining the complementary service offerings of Applied Materials and Metron, we believe we can enhance our value to customers and continue to develop the products and services that enable their success."

For more information, visit: www.appliedmaterials.com