Watlow, an industry leader in the design and manufacture of complete thermal systems, is pleased to announce that it has acquired Yarbrough Solutions Worldwide of Austin, Texas.

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. 

Yarbrough is a premier customer-focused semiconductor equipment solutions provider that services semiconductor fabrication companies globally by developing, installing and servicing high-performance solutions at its customer's fabrication plants.  In performing these services, Yarbrough has long relied upon a myriad of Watlow product offerings such as electric heaters, temperature sensors, temperature controllers and power controllers.

"Yarbrough is a known leader in providing innovative thermal system solutions to semiconductor equipment end users," said Rob Gilmore, vice president and general manager of Watlow's semiconductor business unit.

"Adding Yarbrough's know-how and expertise to Watlow's world-class suite of thermal system capabilities enhances our ability to serve customers through the entire semiconductor fabrication process, from the tool to the scrubber, to ensure thermal optimization of the complete system."

"This acquisition enables both parties to provide even more value to our semiconductor equipment customers," said Pat Swayze, vice president of Yarbrough. "We are very excited about Watlow's long-term vision and we look forward to contributing to the company's future growth."

A key element of the acquisition is a South Korean joint venture, which enhances Watlow's presence in the region. This joint venture between Watlow and its partner, Global Standard Technology Co., Ltd., an established semiconductor business, will be named Watlow Pacific Inc.

Watlow has experienced significant recent growth and aspires to be the share leader in all of its core markets. 

According to Peter Desloge, Watlow's president, chief executive officer and chairman, "Watlow is committed to the success of its customers through product and technology leadership, and this is one of the many reasons why the world's leading companies begin with Watlow for their thermal needs.  The Yarbrough acquisition is a continuation of Watlow's strategy to combine organic investments and acquisitions to achieve consistent, sustainable long-term growth. 

“This acquisition enhances our thermal control capabilities and our ability to create value and deliver a competitive advantage to our customers.  We are very excited to welcome Yarbrough to the Watlow team."