Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. (SHI) is taking another step in its semiconductor growth strategy by renaming two group businesses under a unified “Material Solutions” identity, including one in France.
The move marks the next phase in SHI’s long-term commitment to the global semiconductor sector, bringing together its ion implantation, laser annealing, and advanced materials engineering capabilities into a more coherent and customer-focused structure.
A key part of this transformation is the integration of Laser Systems & Solutions of Europe (LASSE), based near Paris, France. SHI acquired LASSE in January this year, adding one of Europe’s leading laser annealing technology specialists to the group.
LASSE will be renamed Sumitomo (SHI) Material Solutions Europe SASU (SMS-E) to align with the global Material Solutions organisation. The French team brings deep expertise in advanced annealing systems used by semiconductor manufacturers across Europe and beyond. The changes will take effect on 1 January 2026.
Since joining the SHI Group, LASSE has already been working closely with SHI’s ion technology and laser annealing teams in Japan, including joint R&D and cross-selling initiatives. The new unified identity is designed to accelerate that collaboration further and strengthen SHI’s position in the fast-evolving semiconductor equipment market.
In Japan, Sumitomo Heavy Industries Ion Technology Co., Ltd. will adopt the new name Sumitomo Heavy Industries Material Solutions Co., Ltd. (SMS). The change reflects the increasing convergence of ion implantation and laser annealing within customer processes, as well as the growing demand for suppliers that can deliver full materials-engineering solutions rather than standalone equipment.
Commenting on the developments, SHI said the unified brand structure will support stronger collaboration between Europe and Japan, enhance technology innovation, and create a more consistent offering for semiconductor manufacturers in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Under its Medium-Term Management Plan 2026, SHI has identified the semiconductor sector as one of its principal growth engines, with continued investment planned across R&D, talent, and manufacturing capacity.
SHI is a global provider of industrial machinery, advanced engineering solutions, and semiconductor manufacturing technologies. The company delivers innovation in energy, transportation, and precision manufacturing while contributing to the long-term development of society through sustainable, customer-focused engineering.