Spencer West advises AMS Technologies AG on its acquisition of Bay Photonics
The South Devon-based UK Corporate team of international law firm Spencer West has advised AMS Technologies AG on its acquisition of Bay Photonics Ltd., a Torbay-based specialist in photonic device alignment, packaging and assembly, with particular expertise in photonic integrated circuits (PICs).
The acquisition strengthens AMS Technologies’ Solutions business and expands its photonics system design, integration and manufacturing capabilities by combining Bay Photonics’ PIC packaging and high-precision optical alignment expertise with AMS Technologies’ capabilities in system integration, electronics and thermal management.
Bay Photonics was founded in 2007 and operates from its purpose-built facility at the Electronics and Photonics Innovation Centre (EPIC) in Paignton. It will continue to operate with its established team, leadership and facilities, ensuring continuity for customers and partners.
The integration of Bay Photonics will further strengthen AMS Technologies’ European engineering and manufacturing footprint by establishing a three-site platform for design, engineering and production across Paignton (UK), Hanover (Germany) and Kraków (Poland).
Spencer West Partners Cris Boyce and Steve Hanbury advised on the corporate and transactional elements of the acquisition, including legal due diligence and the share purchase, while Jessica Lior provided the commercial property support. AMS Technologies’ tax and accountancy advisers were Darnells Chartered Accountants.
The matter highlights Spencer West’s ability to support clients on cross-border M&A, combining international reach with deep local market knowledge in the South Devon-based region.
Corporate Partner Cris Boyce said it was rewarding to play a part in the next chapter of a local business.
“It was a privilege to support a transaction which brings international investment into a highly regarded South Devon-based technology business,” Boyce said.
“Bay Photonics’ presence in Torbay and its work at the EPIC facility in Paignton underline the strength of the region’s innovation ecosystem.”
Philipp Weber, CFO of AMS Technologies AG, spoke of the team’s technical expertise and business focus in ensuring the acquisition made sense for both parties.
“It was a pleasure working with the Spencer West and Darnells teams in what is a significant strategic acquisition for us,” Weber said.
“Their local knowledge, together with their understanding of the business realities of a European – UK deal, meant they were a steady and trusted adviser to take us into the next chapter of our business.”
Phil Raisey, Managing Partner at Darnells Chartered Accountants, spoke of the strong strategy behind the deal.
“We were pleased to support AMS Technologies on the tax and accountancy aspects of this acquisition. It’s a move that builds on Bay Photonics’ impressive technical capabilities, and we look forward to seeing the combined business go from strength to strength.”
The Spencer West team was led by Corporate Partners Stephen Hanbury and Cris Boyce, with commercial property support from Jessica Lior.
ENDS
