GlobalWafers has partially resumed operations at its Novara, Italy plant following a July 20 fire. The epitaxial (EPI) line is back in production, with the first batch of processed wafers shipped – ahead of the original recovery schedule.

The fire mainly damaged part of the 8‑inch backend process, not the entire line. Most front‑end equipment and the EPI building were unaffected by direct flame or heat. After nearly two months of repairs, key facility systems are running again and some front‑end processes have restarted; damaged backend processes are still being rebuilt.

To ease delivery pressure, GlobalWafers is reallocating production across its Asian and European fabs. However, existing support capacity is near full, and some new equipment has long lead times – meaning Novara's output and revenue won't immediately return to pre‑fire levels. Recovery will depend on customer re‑qualification and rebuild progress.

The company confirmed that the plant's new 12‑inch line was not affected by the fire. Construction is complete, and customer qualification and volume ramp‑up remain on schedule. Insurance claims covering property damage and business interruption are in progress.

ICgoodFind Takeaway:
The partial restart eases some wafer supply pressure, but 8‑inch backend reconstruction will take time – short‑term supply chain disruptions are likely to persist.