Applied Materials to acquire Baccini

Combining Baccini’s products and technologies with Applied’s semiconductor interconnect processing expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and R&D resources will provide customers with, automated production technology for fabricating advanced c-Si solar cells. Baccini is a privately-held company founded in 1967 and based in Treviso, Italy. Baccini’s product line provides material handling automation capable of processing wafers less than 120 micrometers thick. Under the terms of the agreement, Applied will pay €225 million (or approximately US$330 million at the current exchange rate) in cash for all of the outstanding shares of Baccini. Completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of certain non-U.S. regulatory approvals. The parties expect to close the transaction in early 2008.