ASML Announces Restructuring to Boost Engineering Focus Amid Semiconductor Growth

ASML, the Dutch semiconductor equipment giant, announced a significant organizational restructuring aimed at strengthening its engineering and innovation capabilities as the company prepares for continued growth in the semiconductor industry. The move comes as ASML reports strong financial results for 2025 and positions itself to capitalize on projected industry expansion.

The company plans to streamline its Technology and IT organizations, shifting from a project-based matrix structure to a more focused approach where engineers will be dedicated to specific products and modules. This change is designed to simplify processes and decision-making, addressing feedback from engineers who have expressed concerns about reduced agility and slow process flows.

Christophe Fouquet, CEO of ASML, stated in an internal message to employees that while the company's success stems from customer dedication, engineering talent, and collaborative approaches, rapid growth has created challenges. "The feedback from our colleagues, our suppliers and our customers shows that our ways of working have, in some cases, become less agile," Fouquet noted. "Engineers in particular have expressed their desire to focus their time on engineering, without being hampered by slow process flows, and restore the fast-moving culture that has made us so successful."

As part of the restructuring, ASML will create new engineering positions to strengthen existing technology projects and support growth plans, while some leadership roles may be eliminated. The company estimates the changes could result in a net reduction of approximately 1,700 positions, primarily in the Netherlands with some in the United States. However, ASML emphasizes it will continue growing in other areas, including Manufacturing, Customer Support, and Sales, to meet customer demand for new machines and servicing.

The semiconductor equipment manufacturer is working closely with social partners in the Netherlands to discuss the proposed changes. ASML has committed to handling the transition responsibly, with care, speed, transparency, and fairness for affected employees. The company plans to host all-employee meetings and provide additional information sessions for teams directly impacted by the changes.

This restructuring comes at a moment when ASML is experiencing strong performance, with the company choosing to implement these changes "at a moment of strength." The goal is to improve processes and systems to enable better innovation and generate further responsible growth for ASML and its stakeholders. The semiconductor ecosystem is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, and ASML aims to be well-positioned to leverage this positive development while maintaining its competitive edge through enhanced engineering focus.

By refocusing on core engineering capabilities and streamlining organizational structures, ASML seeks to restore the agility and innovation culture that has driven its success while preparing for future growth opportunities in the rapidly evolving semiconductor industry.