Forepi has shaken off the financial troubles the company experienced in 4Q13. The Taiwanese LED epitaxial manufacturer benefited from strong large-size backlight demands. Consolidated revenue for 1Q14 hit NT $941 million (US $), up 9.85 percent QoQ and 0.35 percent YoY. March experienced staggering growth of 42.73 percent from February with revenue reaching 386 million, but dipped 3.67 percent from last year.
Rebounding demands for large-size backlight contributed greatly to revenue growth in 1Q14. Another contributing factor was the company’s adjustment to the MOCVD unit’s epitaxial manufacturing process, which was intended for speeding up their LED lighting developments. Adjustments were finalized in January and February of this year. Yield has now reached a standard level.
The company is optimistic that mid to small-sized backlight demands will also see a turnaround in 2Q14. After the completion of adjustments to MOCVD units in 1Q14, it is estimated that 2Q14 will show even greater efficiency and stronger lighting order performance. Revenue growth is anticipated to continue as well.
As 2Q14 is the traditional peak season for the LED industry, legal persons believe that Forepi’s backlight and lighting order performance will be strong. With the number of working days returning to normal during this quarter, it is estimated that revenue for in 2Q14 will grow 40 to 50 percent compared to 1Q14.
