ASML, the world’s largest manufacturer of semiconductor chipmaking equipment, is planning to introduce a retention incentive worth €20,000 for eligible employees who remain with the company between 2027 and 2030.
The Dutch technology company confirmed the initiative after local media reported the development. According to the company, the incentive will be offered as a conditional stock grant beginning 1 January, 2027, although the final terms of the programme are still being worked out.
The move is aimed at strengthening employee retention at a time when the global semiconductor industry continues to face intense competition for skilled talent. Several major chipmakers, including Samsung Electronics, TSMC and SK Hynix, have also introduced enhanced compensation and incentive programmes to attract and retain specialised professionals amid ongoing talent shortages.
ASML has benefited from strong demand for its semiconductor manufacturing equipment, particularly its advanced lithography systems used in chip production. The company recently reported a net income of €2.92 billion and said orders for its flagship lithography machines have filled production capacity through 2027.
The company employs around 44,500 people worldwide, with more than half of its workforce based in the Netherlands and approximately 8,500 employees in the US.
The proposed retention award reflects a broader trend across the semiconductor industry, where companies are increasingly relying on long-term financial incentives to retain highly skilled employees as demand for chip manufacturing expertise continues to grow.
