KIOXIA to expand 3D flash memory production capacity by building new fabrication facility at Yokkaichi plant

KIOXIA Europe GmbH (formerly Toshiba Memory Europe GmbH), the European-based subsidiary of KIOXIA Corporation, the world leader in memory solutions, today announced the construction of a state-of-the-art fabrication facility (Fab7) at Yokkaichi Plant in Mie Prefecture, Japan to expand production of its proprietary 3D flash memory BiCS FLASH™. The construction of KIOXIA Corporation's Fab7 facility is expected to commence in the spring of 2021.

Due to technological innovation, the amount of data being generated, stored and used has increased exponentially. Furthermore, the flash memory market expects further growth driven by cloud services, 5G, IoT, AI and automated driving. As a result, the production of cutting-edge products in KIOXIA Corporation's Fab7 facility will continue to meet the increasing demand for memory around the world.

The Fab7 facility will be built on the north side of Yokkaichi Plant, where land development is underway. In order to secure optimal production of advanced flash memory products, the construction of Fab7 will be divided into two phases, with the first phase of construction scheduled to be completed by the spring of 2022. KIOXIA plans to fund the capital investments for the construction of Fab7 from its operating cash flow.

Consistent with KIOXIA's successful 20-year partnership with Western Digital, the two companies regularly collaborate on facility operation. Accordingly, KIOXIA and Western Digital expect to continue their joint venture investments for the Fab7 facility.

The Fab7 facility will have an earthquake-absorbing structure and an environmentally friendly design that includes the latest energy-saving manufacturing equipment. Located in Yokkaichi Plant, which offers the world's largest flash memory production capacity, the Fab7 facility will further boost KIOXIA's production capacity by introducing an advanced manufacturing system that utilises AI.

In line with its mission of 'uplifting' the world with memory, KIOXIA is focused on cultivating a new era of memory. KIOXIA remains committed to enhancing its position in the memory industry through capital investment and research and development that reflect market trends.

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About KIOXIA Europe GmbH

KIOXIA Europe GmbH (formerly Toshiba Memory Europe GmbH) is the European based subsidiary of KIOXIA Corporation, a leading worldwide supplier of flash memory and solid state drives (SSDs). From the invention of flash memory to today's breakthrough BiCS FLASH 3D technology, KIOXIA continues to pioneer cutting-edge memory solutions and services that enrich people's lives and expand society's horizons. The company's innovative 3D flash memory technology, BiCS FLASH, is shaping the future of storage in high-density applications, including advanced smartphones, PCs, SSDs, automotive and data centers.