Date: 06/02/2009

Atmel planning to sell its ASIC business

Few months back Atmel did't accept the joint acquisition bid by Microchip and On Semiconductor. The reason was bidders were aiming for Atmel's Microcontroller business, which Atmel never intersted to sell. But that's not the case with its ASIC business. To focus more on core MCU segment Atmel is pursuing strategic alternatives for its ASIC business and related manufacturing assets, including a potential sale.

"Atmel's Board and management team are focused on fully realizing the value of our company," said Steven Laub, Atmel's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Over the last year, we have taken decisive actions to improve and restructure nearly every aspect of Atmel's operations. The exploration of strategic alternatives for our ASIC business is another step in Atmel's ongoing transformation plan. Our ASIC business is a market leader in multiple segments, but is not a core component of our long-term strategy to build a microcontroller based company. As we proceed with this process, we will remain focused on continuing to drive technological leadership in our core business and providing innovative products and services for our ASIC customers."

Atmel's ASIC business is operating in three distinct segments: Customer Specific Products (CSP), Smart Cards (SMS) and Aerospace. The ASIC business also includes an advanced 200mm fab located in Rousset, France, and a test and finishing operation located in East Kilbride, Scotland, UK, along with related design, operation, marketing, sales and support resources. Revenues for the ASIC business totaled $416 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2008.

Morgan Stanley is serving as Atmel's financial advisor in connection with the evaluation of strategic alternatives for the ASIC business.