ASML has started building a new production campus near Eindhoven as the company prepares for further growth.
The Dutch chip machine manufacturer held a ceremony to mark the start of construction at Brainport Industries Campus North.
Prime Minister Rob Jetten, former prime minister Dick Schoof and Eindhoven Mayor Jeroen Dijsselbloem attended the event.
ASML chief executive Christophe Fouquet thanked the Dutch government and local authorities for the cooperation that made the project possible.
“The growing global demand from the semiconductor industry requires continuous investments,” Fouquet said.
The new site covers about 35 hectares near Eindhoven Airport. It is approximately seven kilometres from ASML’s headquarters and main production facilities in Veldhoven.
The campus will contain offices, logistics facilities and cleanrooms for assembling advanced chip-making machines.
ASML expects to complete the first phase in 2029. The company aims to have space for at least 3,000 workers during this phase.
The entire campus could eventually accommodate up to 20,000 employees.
This does not mean ASML is immediately advertising 20,000 vacancies. The figure represents the planned capacity of the completed campus as the company expands.
The project will allow ASML to produce more machine components and improve the movement of materials through its factories.
Demand for ASML’s machines continues to grow as technology companies invest more money in artificial intelligence and advanced computer chips.
ASML is the only company producing the extreme ultraviolet lithography machines needed to manufacture the world’s most advanced chips.
The Dutch government previously launched Project Beethoven to improve housing, education, transport and infrastructure in the Eindhoven region.
Officials wanted to prevent ASML from moving part of its future expansion outside the Netherlands.
The campus faced delays because of nitrogen emission rules and limited access to the electricity grid.
Authorities approved the required nitrogen permit after deciding that the project served a major public interest. ASML must also introduce measures to compensate for its impact on nature.
Grid operator TenneT plans to expand a high-voltage station near Best to supply electricity to the campus.
The development could bring more jobs and investment to the region. It could also increase pressure on housing, roads, public transport and healthcare services.
