SAN FRANCISCO — The leading semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing trade show SEMICON West, held July 9-11, 2024 at the Moscone Center, reported a 12% increase in net square footage year-over-year and a 12% increase in exhibitor-count year-over-year.
The microelectronics industry association SEMI announced that the event will be held in Phoenix for the first time in 2025 and rotate yearly between San Francisco and Phoenix.
“The overall rotation is primarily motivated by involving the growing semiconductor ecosystem in the area,” Sandy Chapin, CEM, Director, Exhibitions & Events at SEMI, said. “Greater Phoenix is home to over 75 semiconductor companies, including prominent SEMI members such as EMD Electronics, Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company … The sector employs more than 100,000 people locally, with additional jobs anticipated. Recent investments in chip manufacturing underscore Phoenix’s role in driving innovation, aligning with SEMI’s goals and programs to advance the broader industry.”
Growth Factors
According to Chapin, the show’s growth was fueled by the recent Chips and Science Act.
“We are experiencing significant tailwinds as a result, with new companies and organizations participating as part of the U.S. semiconductor ecosystem expansion. Additionally, SEMI has expanded its programs to address industry challenges and advance growth, and this has brought in new participants focused on areas such as Sustainability and Smart Manufacturing,” Chapin said.
SEMICON West also saw growth in international attendance this year.
“This diversification has enhanced networking opportunities and fostered greater global collaboration within the industry,” Chapin explained.
Additionally, the show’s marketing team implemented a more refined social media approach to drive awareness and ads were changed up to six times to increase visibility and convey messages to the show’s target audience.
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New Features and Enhanced F&B
A new “Meet Arizona” activation on the 2024 show floor, created with the Arizona Commerce Authority, Greater Phoenix Economic Council and Visit Phoenix, displayed the city’s offerings with a VR video titled “A Flight to Phoenix” and three video monitors — “Stay,” “Work” and “Play” — which focused on its hotels, semiconductor companies and tourism.
SEMICON West also introduced a CEO Summit this year, with day one focusing on “Investing in America’s Manufacturing Future” and day two covering “Seizing the Global Opportunities and Challenges Ahead.”
A new program titled “Future of Computing | Resources for Expanding Operations in the U.S.” was also added to the show.
Chapin shared that the Moscone Center provided F&B through their in-house caterer SAVOR, including a Food Truck option and a “Taste of San Francisco” experience, which showcased cuisine from local neighborhoods, including The Mission, North Beach and Fisherman’s Wharf.
“These dining options were ideal for enjoying a meal without leaving the facility and were offered at a reasonable price point, enhancing the overall attendee experience,” Chapin added.
SEMICON West 2025 will take place Oct. 7-9 at the Phoenix Convention Center. Its 2026 edition will return to the Moscone Center Oct. 13-15.
Learn more about SEMICON West here.
