MKS Instruments Inc., a global provider of technologies that seek to enable advanced processes and improve productivity, has entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to acquire Atotech, a process chemicals technology company and a provider of electroplating solutions, for $16.20 in cash and 0.0552 of a share of MKS common stock for each Atotech common share. The equity value of the transaction is $5.1 billion and the enterprise value of the transaction is approximately $6.5 billion.

“Together, MKS and Atotech will be uniquely positioned to drive faster, better solutions and innovations for customers in advanced electronics,” said MKS president and CEO John T.C. Lee.   “By combining leading capabilities in lasers, optics, motion and process chemistry, the combined company will optimize the PCB Interconnect, a significant enabling point of next-generation advanced electronics that represents the next frontier for miniaturization and complexity. We anticipate the addition of Atotech will position MKS to enable roadmaps for future generations of advanced electronics devices. The acquisition of Atotech also provides MKS with a recurring revenue stream from a consumables portfolio for leading-edge devices, with meaningful scale and potential on which to build.”

“The combination of Atotech’s expertise in electroplating and chemistry and MKS’ strengths in lasers, laser systems, optics and motion will enable innovative and ground-breaking solutions for customers in the areas of materials processing and complex applications,” said Geoff Wild, CEO of Atotech. “This transaction is an excellent outcome for our shareholders, and we believe it will provide immediate value and the opportunity to benefit from the upside potential of the combined company.”

Perella Weinberg Partners is acting as financial advisor and DLA Piper is acting as legal advisor to MKS. WilmerHale is acting as legal advisor to MKS for the financing. J.P. Morgan and Barclays Bank PLC provided committed financing for the transaction and were advised by Paul Hastings. Credit Suisse is acting as financial advisor and Latham & Watkins is acting as legal advisor to Atotech. Carey Olsen is advising MKS and Ogier is advising Atotech as to Jersey law matters.