Lumentum to acquire NeoPhotonics
Combination accelerates Lumentum’s penetration of the fast-growing opportunity for high-speed optical components for cloud and telecom network infrastructure and creates a better partner for customers globally
The addition of Neophotonics expands Lumentum’s opportunity in some of the fastest growing areas of the more than ten-billion dollar market for optical components used in cloud and telecom network infrastructure. The integrated company will be better positioned to serve the needs of a global customer base who are increasingly utilizing photonics to accelerate the shift to digital and virtual approaches to work and life, the proliferation of IoT, 5G, and next-generation mobile networks, and the transition to advanced cloud computing architectures. The combination creates a stronger partner for customers, with the ability and intent to invest strongly in innovation and manufacturing capacity.
“With Neophotonics, we’re making another important investment in better serving our customers and expanding our photonics capabilities at a time when photonics are at the forefront of favorable long-term market trends,” said Alan Lowe, Lumentum president and CEO. “At the center of our strategy is a relentless focus on developing a differentiated portfolio with the most innovative products and technology in our industry so that we can help our customers compete and win in their respective markets. Adding Neophotonics’ differentiated products and technology and innovative R&D team is consistent with this strategy and together, we will better meet the growing need for next generation optical networking solutions.”
“[This] is an exciting milestone for NeoPhotonics,” said Tim Jenks, Neophotonics’ president, CEO, and chairman. “The increasing global demand for our ultrapure light tunable lasers and photonics technologies for speed over distance applications is more apparent than ever, and Lumentum is the ideal partner to serve our customers on a larger scale. They recognize the importance of our differentiated photonic technology and products, which are well positioned for accelerated growth in the coming years. The combination's complementary product portfolio, increased scale, breadth of customer application knowledge, and R&D capabilities will accelerate innovation, better serve customers, and deliver significant and immediate value to our stockholders. Importantly, this transaction is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees. I look forward to working with Lumentum leadership to ensure a smooth transition as we begin an exciting new chapter as one company.”
