Intel said on July 13 it will invest €5 billion, about $5.7 billion, to expand its Leixlip campus in Ireland and raise output for advanced chip manufacturing, with a focus on Intel 3 and next-generation Xeon processors.
According to the company announcement, the project will upgrade existing wafer fab facilities and add advanced manufacturing tools. Intel also plans to expand its automated track system, linking different modules across the Leixlip site into a more efficient production environment. At the same time, it will use existing cleanroom space to speed up mass production of Intel Xeon 6 and next-generation Xeon processors based on Intel 3, while continuing research and development work.
Capacity push targets AI and HPC demand
Intel said the capital investment is meant to expand advanced silicon production to meet global demand for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. The company said the added output will support future “AI factories.”
Naga Chandrasekaran, executive vice president of Intel Foundry and chief technology and operations officer, said in a statement: “This €5 billion investment represents our strong commitment. By deploying the most advanced technology and equipment in our existing wafer fab, we can not only maximize capacity and improve service for foundry customers, but also ensure that Ireland remains at the forefront of the world’s most advanced manufacturing ecosystem.”
Intel says Ireland investment has topped €30 billion since 1989
Intel said it has invested more than €30 billion in Ireland since first entering the country in 1989. The Leixlip campus currently has about 4,900 employees and is one of the company’s most advanced manufacturing sites worldwide.
The report said the latest investment had already started earlier this year. Intel said the project will hire skilled trades workers and create high-tech jobs. The report also described the move as support for the European Union’s push for tech sovereignty.
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin and IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan both welcomed the investment, saying it reflects confidence in Ireland’s talent base and innovation environment. They also said it will strengthen Europe’s position in global semiconductor competition and support long-term supply chain resilience.