Foxconn and Sharp have signed a long-delayed deal which will see the Taiwanese company take control of the Japanese display manufacturer in a deal for 66% of Sharp for $3.5bn.
At a news conference following the signing of the deal, Foxconn
CEO Terry Gou said he had confidence in Sharp’s ability to bounce
back; "I have deep respect for Sharp’s 105-year history, its technological innovation
and leadership."
Before the announcement of a deal with Foxconn, Sharp had
been discussing a rival offer from a government-backed consortium of Japanese
investors.
Although recent years have seen a downturn in its fortunes, Sharp
continues to be a leader in LCD technology, a key asset for
Foxconn.
In 2012, Sharp came close to entering bankruptcy, and has struggled
with debts and been through two major bailouts in the last four years.